This annual directory includes names, addresses, and telephone numbers of major firms involved in the optical information field. Four major product groupings are represented: (1) interactive video; (2) WORM and erasable optical disks; (3) CD-ROM technologies; and (4) optical memory cards. An overview of the past year's developments in this field…

Discusses software that is used to drive and access optical disk jukeboxes, which are used for data storage. Categories of the software are described, user categories are explained, the design of implementation approaches is discussed, and representative software products are reviewed. (eight references) (LRW)

Outlines and analyzes new trends and developments at the Association for Information and Image Management's 1990 spring conference. The growth of imaging and the optical storage industry is emphasized, and new developments that are discussed include hardware; optical disk drives; jukeboxes; local area networks (LANs); bar codes; image displays;…

Discusses the use of CD-ROM as a medium for distributing software and documentation. Companies that are distributing public domain software are examined, distribution of software supporting specific hardware is described, re-purposing of discs intended for programers and technical support personnel is discussed, and a directory of firms is…

Compares and evaluates three CD-ROM products for the ERIC database: (1) DIALOG OnDISC; (2) OCLC's Search CD450; and (3) SilverPlatter. The focus is on search capabilities and features. (1 reference) (MES)

Review of encyclopedias and other databases available on CD-ROM focuses on the International Encyclopedia of Education (IEE). Problems with software and hardware are described, perspectives from the computer industry are presented, the commercial potential of CD-ROMs is discussed, and a list of sources is provided. (six references) (LRW)

Discussion of the information age and optical publishing focuses on the newly formed Optical Publishing Association (OPA) and its goals and objectives. The role of CD-ROMs is examined, and the value of information both to the industry and to the consumer is discussed. (LRW)

Describes the creation of a prototype CD-ROM disc at the Earth Science Information Center (ESIC) that contained information on aerial photographs formerly held on computer output microfiche. Specifications are discussed, fields of information that were indexed are described, search and retrieval display capabilities are explained, and the results…

Discusses the George Washington University Library's experiences as a test site for Silver Platter/Psychlit. Advantages of the CD-ROM concept, including visibility, accessibility, costs, and sophistication, are noted; crucial issues in deciding whether to acquire a CD-ROM product are considered; and CD-ROM is described as a means for integrating…