Discussion of the distribution of power to personal computers and computer terminals addresses options such as extension cords, perimeter raceways, and interior raceways. Sidebars explain: (1) the National Electrical Code; (2) volts, amps, and watts; (3) transformers, circuit breakers, and circuits; and (4) power vs. data wiring. (MES)

Addresses the protection of computer rooms from water. Sources of water and potentially vulnerable areas in computer rooms are described. Water detection is then discussed, and several detection systems are detailed. Prices and manufacturers' telephone numbers for some of the systems are included. Water cleanup is also briefly considered. (MES)

Describes electrical power problems that affect computer users, including spikes, sags, outages, noise, frequency variations, and static electricity. Ways in which these problems may be diagnosed and cured are discussed. Sidebars consider transformers; power distribution units; surge currents/linear and non-linear loads; and sizing the power…

Discussion of basic telecommunications concepts includes data terminal equipment, carrier equipment and data communications equipment. Guidelines offered for librarians planning the implementation of a telecommunications network address reliability and costs of equipment, requirements of the system, and ease of use of the system. (CLB)

Description of the Kurzweil Reading Machine, which uses a special camera and computer to transform printed matter into synthetic speech; includes reading and sound production, machine operation, adjusting to different typefaces, and limitations. Review of the portable reading aid for the partially sighted, Viewscan, discusses characteristics,…

The first of two articles describing the University of Michigan's experiences in installing an on-premise telecommunications system covers: (1) the physical, historical, and cultural context; (2) planning for the new system; (3) voice and data strategies of the system; (4) switching equipment and transmission media; and (5) financing and rates.…

The sources and characteristics (light measurement, direct and indirect or reflected glare) of glare problems in the video display terminal work environment are described. Glare control measures, including the location and design of lighting systems, managing outdoor light and using screen filters and hoods, are reviewed. Five sources are given.…

Several consultants address the development and use of RFPs (requests for proposals) in the library automation procurement process, including the cost of developing a request; the need to concentrate on overall goals, not just the document; and the usefulness of the request as one step in a broader planning process. (CLB)

This article presents a brief history of the videodisc and describes three major current manifestations of this storage medium--read-only, write-once, erasable. The current status of write-once technology, major corporations involved in the field, potential uses for various types of storage media, and software and market trends are highlighted.…

Describes two projects that tested use of digital facsimile technology for interlibrary communication. Columbia Law School/New York University Law School study emphasized equipment selection criteria (copy quality, compatibility, ease of operation, operation and costs). Pacific Northwest Library Facsimile Network project focused on operational…

Discusses information gathered in past few years related to health effects of video display terminals (VDTs) with particular emphasis given to issues raised by VDT users. Topics covered include radiation emissions, health concerns, radiation surveys, occupational radiation exposure standards, and long-term risks. (17 references) (EJS)

Describes five research projects that are setting up electronic information delivery systems to serve rural areas in the Pacific Northwest. The technologies being evaluated include simultaneous remote searching, facsimile transmissions, bit map image transmissions, and a combination of optical character recognition equipment and television…

The recent history of facsimile use in libraries is described, including detailed reports of its use and usefulness at specific libraries. Three major issues to be addressed in deciding to adopt telefacsimile for document delivery (need, copy quality, and cost) are explored. (Author/CLB)