On February 9 and 10, 2010, fifty leaders from colleges, universities, corporations, professional associations, and state networks met in Tempe, Arizona, to discuss cloud computing and the impending shift in the mix of where infrastructure, applications, and services are sourced. This group identified a set of actions that colleges and…

Discusses the technological changes that will necessitate the prospective conversion of library data over the next decade and addresses the problems of converting data from obsolete personal computers to newer models that feature radically different operating systems. Three case studies are used to illustrate possible scenarios. (11 references)…

Discusses the need for user oriented optical storage systems to deal with information storage in offices, and describes the Megadoc system. The features described include hardware configurations, microcomputer applications, the ability to read microfilm or microfiche documents, equipment standards, and current systems software. (CLB)

Discusses factors that should be considered by buyers and producers of databases on CD-ROM (compact disc-read only memory). The advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM are also discussed and compared with those of magnetic and print media, and market projections are provided. (CLB)

Description of new applications of digital optical disc storage technologies focuses on CD-ROM (Compact Disc--Read Only Memory); CD-I (Compact Disc--Interactive); and DV-I (Digital Video--Interactive). Features of each technology are described in the context of instructional design and educational technology, and the role of educational research…

This article defines three separate categories of microcomputers--personal, desk-top, multi-user devices--and relates storage capabilities (expandability, floppy disks) to library applications. Highlghts include de facto standards, operating systems, database management systems, applications software, circulation control systems, dumb and…

This third article in a five-part series focuses on personal computer software (instructional packages for the computer itself). Topics covered include 11 categories of microcomputer software, evaluation and selection, purchase, version numbers and upgrades, copy protection, disk operating system commands, preparation of master disk, batch files,…

Explains steps in process of tranforming data from current form to one ready for publication on CD-ROM, i.e., disc layout, file format, building the master tape, and input to mastering facility. The conversion of a product currently existing in book form into a computer-based searchable database is described. (MBR)

This review of public domain software (written by individuals who release programs for free copying and distribution) focuses on disk utility programs which deal with the manipulation of files on disks (finding, moving, changing, viewing, organizing, storing). Sources for identifying programs and three addresses for software distribution are…

Offers suggestions for avoiding common errors in online microcomputer use. Areas discussed include learning the basics; hardware protection; backup options; hard disk organization; software selection; file security; and the use of dedicated communications lines. (CLB)

This overview of a digital optical storage medium with a multimedia capability includes a global description of specifications, current status, and elements required to make a CD-I (compact disk interactive) launch possible. (Author/CLB)

The market availability of optical storage technology will radically change the nature of information distribution, especially by reducing the high cost of mass data storage. The three general classes of optical storage are: (1) mass-produced read-only storage, (2) write-once storage, and (3) erasable optical storage. (CDD)

Addresses single-user microcomputer systems and information processing applications normally performed through use of data management, spreadsheet, word processing, business graphics, and communications software. Both hardware and software considerations are included with an emphasis on hardware once appropriate application software-level packages…

Five categories of microcomputer software for information storage and retrieval (ISR) are distinguished and characterized: classical retrieval systems; end-user software; indexing programs; full-text retrieval programs; and personal information managers. In addition, the special retrieval techniques of hypertext and best-matched searching are…

Reviews new educational materials designed for microcomputer use: compact disk encyclopedia derived from "Grolier's Academic American Encyclopedia"; "PC Word Power," vocabulary enhancement game; "Public Domain Software on File," 250 programs for Apple II microcomputer users; "RightWriter," program designed to teach effective writing; "Kansas…