This thesis describes a character generator which was built for a refreshed cathode-ray tube (CRT) display and demonstrates the feasibility of displaying high quality dot-matrix characters using the low-band width sinusoidal scan. The CRT used was a low-cost entertainment-quality television tube, and hence had a very poor deflection band width.…

Discusses theory of mental models--i.e., representations of relationships within a system which enable the user to produce mental simulations of the system's actions and develop ways of dealing with it--and its implications for user training, interface design, and overall systems design. (EJS)

Designed as a reference guide for those seeking information about systems equipment and supplies, this directory is a compilation of a selection of literature, bulletins, catalogs, manuals, and specification sheets about systems equipment and related supplies. The directory is arranged alphabetically by products. Each listing has an identifying…

Briefly reviews history of library automation before discussing factors that libraries should consider before choosing to go online (collection size, machine-readable database, computer equipment, costs), and features of online catalogs (database organization, search features, authority files, display options). Information about selected online…

Special types of prosthetic devices have been designed to support the specific needs of disabled and handicapped computer users in retrieving information. Of particular importance are interfaces based on the use of sound, tactile operations, and gestures. Such interfaces may be used to provide disabled people with access to hypermedia information.…

This last of a five-part series on using the IBM personal computer for online searching highlights a brief review, search process, making the connection, switching between screens and modes, online transaction, capture buffer controls, coping with options, function keys, script files, processing downloaded information, note to TELEX users, and…

Discusses future of online information retrieval systems in terms of types of computer hardware expected (noting size, memory, cost, microcomputers, peripherals); software expected; "user friendly" interfaces designed to enable users to search without special training; and new approaches to subject analysis and online searching.…

The Network Measurement System (NMS) represents the implementation of a new approach to the performance measurement and evaluation of computer network systems and services. By focusing on the service delivered to network customers at their terminals, rather than on the internal mechanics of network operation, measurements can be obtained which are…

The document highlights in nontechnical language the development of the Defense Documentation Center (DDC) Remote On-Line Retrieval System from its inception in 1967 to what is planned. It describes in detail the current operating system, equipment configuration and associated costs, user training and system evaluation and may be of value to other…

Redesign of human-computer interface for users of computerized information systems can make substantial difference in training time, performance speed, error rates, and user satisfaction. Information and computer scientists are using controlled psychologically oriented experimentation, and evaluations during system development and active use to…

The model presented identifies three basic needs which must be met in order to increase our understanding of the user interface in computerized information systems: empirical studies of users' attitudes; systematic summaries and critical analyses of these studies; and an interim set of guidelines for user interface design. (EJS)

The OSIRIS system is a prototype information retrieval system having the following components: an automated microfiche file having a capacity of 5000 punch card sized microfiche with a remote control 21 inch TV console for retrieving, magnifying (0-250X), and displaying any of the images on the microfiche; and a remote computer terminal for the…

A generalizable procedure for the analysis and design of information systems is described in the context of allied and supporting data methods, design assessment, and project management considerations. This procedure follows from a view of information systems development as a complex series of goal-directed iterations, rather than a well-ordered…

Provides technical description of system (SOCRATE) used to re-transmit searches from searching terminal to second, remote terminal, where end user or inexperienced searcher can observe search strategy development and interact with search. Use of the system as searching and training aids and experiences at Consorci d'Informacio i Documentacio de…

Eight studies by experts in the field of information retrieval examine aspects of public use of such automated systems as online catalogs in libraries. Ward Shaw discusses "Design Principles for Public Access," outlining desirable characteristics of an information retrieval system. Allen Avner and H. George Friedman, Jr. treat problems…