Discusses basic approaches and available software for five categories of file conversion: (1) converting between different computers with different operating systems; (2) converting between different computers with the same operating systems; (3) converting between different applications on the same computer; (4) converting between different…

Discusses issues relating to microcomputer software user interfaces: (1) accessibility; (2) ease of learning versus speed and flexibility; (3) arrogant versus accommodating software; (4) file management capabilities; and (5) widespread software inconveniences including copy protection, poor use of subdirectories, and bad text. (MES)

Introduces a new column on personal computing and discusses changing uses for personal computers. Recent developments in computing periodicals--including the introduction of "PC/Computing," a major new magazine--are considered. An annotated bibliography lists 35 articles from the 1988 literature. (MES)

Discusses changes that have made desktop publishing appealing and reasonably priced. Hardware, software, and printer options for getting started and moving on, typeface developments, and the key characteristics of desktop publishing are described. The author's notes on 33 articles from the personal computing literature from January-March 1994 are…

Three methods employed to price and sell computer equipment are discussed: computer pricing, hardware pricing, system pricing (system includes complete computer and support hardware system and relatively complete software package). Advantages of system pricing are detailed, the author's system is described, and 10 systems currently available are…

This discussion of microcomputer outline processors shows how they can make it easier to jot down random ideas on a topic, organize them into a workable structure, and view all--or a specific portion of a topic--at an appropriate level. Functions, uses, and features to look for are described. (EM)

The first section discusses two common styles of microcomputer consulting, when each is appropriate in libraries, and the dangers of using one type. The second section focuses on types of vaporware, the effects of each, and steps to minimize potential damage. A bibliography of this quarter's literature watch on microcomputer hardware and software…

Addresses the concept of adding sound to existing personal computers. Describes hardware and software options and explores uses of computers equipped with sound. Sidebars summarize the development of stereo sound in multimedia products and describe the two major forms of computer sound: Musical Instrument Digital Interface and digital sound waves.…

Discusses microcomputer-based graphics and describes software for Windows and other operating systems. Highlights include file formats for painting and drawing; sources of artwork, including clip art, scanning, and public domain images; examples; and graphics toolkits. A review of 26 recent articles on personal computers, other hardware, and…

Considers fundamental decisions that shaped the output products of Research Libraries Information Network. Product Batch was designed using single data definition (RMARC) combined with standard PL/I, modular programing techniques, program documentation. Choice of software and programing languages, other design aspects (accountability, count…

Defines and discusses the equipment and software needed to start telecommunicating: modems (speed, autodial or manual dial, stand-alone or built-in), telephones, telecommunications software, and commercial information services, including electronic mail and bulletin boards. Definitions, communications protocols, equipment features, and costs are…

Lists 27 suggestions for making cost-effective decisions when buying personal computers. Topics covered include physical comfort; modem speed; color graphics; institutional discounts; direct-order firms; brand names; replacing versus upgrading; expanding hard disk capacity; printers; software; wants versus needs; and RLIN (Research Libraries…

Reports the design, methodology, and results of a research project which examined the effectiveness of bibliographic displays produced by online catalogs. A means of testing displays against several hundred thousand records at a reasonable cost and using that to test several display possibilities is described. (CLB)

Details a series of tests conducted by the Research Libraries Group, Inc., to evaluate IBM clones i.e., computers designed to use hardware and software originally intended for IBM microcomputers. The results of evaluations of several personal computers, using the criteria of performance, aesthetics, ergonomics, and documentation, are reported.…

Discussion of factors to consider in purchasing a personal computer covers present and future needs, computing environments, memory, processing performance, disk size, and display quality. Issues such as bundled systems, where and when to purchase, and vendor support are addressed; and an annotated bibliography of 28 recent articles is included.…