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)

Presents an overview of the FORTH programing language's functions, compares it to BASIC, demonstrates how it can be tailored to specific applications, and describes in detail the VIC FORTH dialect designed specifically for the Commodore VIC-20 microcomputer. Representative FORTH words and a VIC FORTH dictionary are included. (MBR)

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…

Description of the Macintosh personal, educational, and business computer produced by Apple covers cost; physical characteristics including display devices, circuit boards, and built-in features; company-produced software; third-party produced software; memory and storage capacity; word-processing features; and graphics capabilities. (MBR)

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,…

This hardware review describes such innovative features of the Texas Instrument Portable Professional Computer as integrated color screen and option slots permitting customization as well as the physical unit (inside and out), its mass storage flexibility, and sturdiness. A comparison with the IBM PC Portable is included. (MBR)

Discusses major features of an effective local network of microcomputers within a business: (1) particular transmission medium used; (2) the way data is transmitted over that medium; and (3) the way access to the network is shared among the devices. A data communications glossary is provided. (MBR)

Describes ways in which speech synthesizers and adaptive software for microcomputers enable visually impaired office workers and professionals to use computers in much the same way as their sighted colleagues. Several speech synthesizers and computer programs are described, as well as experiences of blind persons in a variety of positions. (MBR)

Focusing primarily on hard disks, this report describes the choices currently available; explains the inner workings of hard-disk technology; lists 70 leading hard-disk products with their costs and capabilities; describes a new type of high-capacity drive; and compares speed, cost, and reliability of a number of widely used hard-disk backup…