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)

CD-Rewritable (CD-RW) is the latest advance in compact disc technology, permitting the erasure and reuse of space up to 1,000 times at a slightly higher cost than CD-Recordable (CD-R). This article reviews and rates twelve CD-RW drives and highlights packet-writing software that allows files to be recorded a few at a time by dropping them onto the…

Discusses seven factors to consider in deciding whether or not to build on AppleWorks and Apple II technology now that Apple Computer is developing little new software for the system. Factors include the impact of change on users and the existence of mail-order support services, which are listed in a sidebar. (KRN)

Description of the portable Apple IIc includes its flat panel display; a new microprocessor, the 65CO2; its new design language; layout; documentation, including interactive tutorials; software support; and cost. Apple IIc's competitors and its new printer, the Scribe, are also discussed. (MBR)

Three articles discuss new computer hardware and software options which produce professional looking documents with the use of microcomputers; evaluate several computer programs that enable microcomputer users to design, typeset, and paste up publications electronically; and describe the Hewlett-Packard and Apple personal laser printers. (MBR)

Reviews important developments of Microsoft's first international conference on CD ROM, focusing on the announcement of a new medium called Compact Disc-Interactive (CD-I). Discussion covers CD-I's design, applications, kinds of programming made possible compatibility with current CD ROM products, impact on consumer market, and impact on overall…

"Push technology," or Webcasting, employs user defined criteria to search for specific information and deliver it when and where directed, enhancing the value special librarians add to the information dissemination process. This article examines push technology, its Internet and Intranet applications, and commercially available…

Presents a selective survey of micro-based genlocking systems currently on the market including those systems with open and closed architecture; examines the number and diversity of uses for this hybrid medium, which synchronizes video signals with computer-generated text and graphics; and discusses the role of cause and effect in innovation.

Describes the use of ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Networks) in homes, home offices, and offices as a way of transmitting data in audio and video form. Explains how ISDN works and reviews computer equipment needed to change existing telephone service into ISDN service. A chart presents product information for ISDN modems. (JMV)

Provides overview of recent technological developments in microcomputer technology for the physically disabled, including discussion of view expansion, "talking terminals," voice recognition, and price and convenience of micro-based products. Equipment manufacturers and training centers for the physically disabled are listed and microcomputer…

Local area networks (LAN) are privately owned communication systems that connect multivendor devices at high speed. As microcomputers become more common in schools, user interest in sharing information, software, and peripherals will increase. A basic understanding of the operation of all LAN's can be gained by knowing four elements: media,…

Describes the most recent innovations and advancements in computer peripheral devices and enhancements, computer software, captioning and other electronic devices, and computer languages designed to aid communication and learning in physically disabled, learning disabled, visually impaired, and hearing impaired students. (MBR)