Describes the features and performance of the Radio Shack TRS-80 Pocket Computer. Programming capacity, various system commands, and the speed of the computer's operations are discussed. (JL)

Briefly describes the history of computer printers, discusses recent developments, and outlines some of the potential characteristics of future printers. Included are a glossary of terms commonly used to describe the various features of printers and a table listing the manufacturers' addresses, specifications, and costs of over 150 currently…

Examines design, features, and shortcomings of eight disk-based operating systems designed for general use that are popular or most likely to affect the future of microcomputing. Included are the CP/M family, MS-DOS, Apple DOS/ProDOS, Unix, Pick, the p-System, TRSDOS, and Macintosh/Lisa. (MBR)

Discusses the issue of microcomputer use with young children, describes several computer programs designed primarily for children's enjoyment, presents caveats regarding present state of the art of preschool software, and lists several recommended programs. (MBR)

Identifies essential database management terminology and groups the various types of database management programs into three basic categories for discussion of basic features, typical applications, and costs. A table of the leading programs available in each category includes the manufacturer's name and address, hardware requirements, and price…

Describes and evaluates the hardware, operation, peripheral devices, software, and performance capabilities of the Atari 400 microcomputer system. (JL)

Describes and evaluates the hardware, operation, peripheral devices, software, and performance capabilities of the Radio Shack Color Computer System. (JL)

Describes and evaluates the hardware, operation, software, and performance capabilities of the Sinclair ZX81 personal computer. Designed as a beginning computer for learning BASIC, this compact, inexpensive microcomputer also has prepackaged software for tax computation, personal finance, education, graphics, and arcade-style games. (JL)

Describes and evaluates the components and performance of the IBM Personal Computer. Data processing and memory capacity, compatible software packages and programming languages, and system options are discussed. (JL)

Describes the unique features, available software, performance capabilities, system options, costs, advantages, disadvantages, and eccentricities of the Osborne 1 microcomputer. A table summarizes specifications, features, and costs. (JL)

Discusses design, applications, advantages, disadvantages, users, and future trends of two types of natural language programs: menu-driven where commands are constructed from lists of words, and English-command-driven which translate your words into commands recognized by the computer. Several specific computer programs are described, including…

Describes the value and use of In-Search, an access software program designed to make online searches simpler--and less costly--for Dialog users by helping them to decide on a search strategy before signing online. (MBR)

Describes and evaluates the basic hardware, peripheral devices, system software, graphics capabilities, operations, and other features of the low-cost Commodore VIC-20 color microcomputer system. Included are three simultaneous musical tones plus one noise generator. (JL)

Describes and evaluates the basic hardware, peripheral devices, functions, capabilities, and available software for the TI-99/4A home computer. A table summarizes the computer's specifications. (JL)

Concentrating on those units most suited to home microcomputer users, this article discusses modem functions, varieties, basic features, and automatic features; lists manufacturers of telecommunications hardware; and provides a modem comparison chart which includes information on price, configuration, line connection, interface, baud rate,…