The rapid proliferation of personal computers on many campuses has raised a number of questions as to how best to support them. An approach based upon network service machines is discussed. These services include mail, printing, plotting, batch execution, file storage, etc. (Author/MLW)

Summarizes how the North Carolina Educational Computing Service, a regional resource sharing network, has responded to increasingly varied demands for services. (Author/CHC)

Since electronic networking via microcomputers is fast becoming one of the most popular communications mediums of this decade, this manual is designed to help educators use personal computers as communication devices. The purpose of the document is to acquaint the reader with: (1) the many available communications options on electronic networks;…

Business Computer Network (BCN) employs automatic calling and logon, multiple database access, disk search capture, and search assistance interfaces to provide single access to 15 online services. Telecommunications software (SuperScout) used to reach BCN and participating online services offers storage and message options and is accompanied by…

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)

Discusses microcomputer interfacing systems which accept full MARC record from bibliographic utility, reformat and transform it into local library computer system format; illustrates how the TPS-400 interface works; outlines criteria for interface selection; indicates installation decisions; and notes limitation problems and benefits. Four…

Computer networks can fall into three broad categories--local area networks (LAN), microcomputer based messaging systems (this includes computer bulletin board systems), or commercial information systems. Many of the same types of activities take place within the three categories. The major differences are the types of information available and…

This study examines how the microcomputer could be used in a network with other microcomputers, some established computer technology, and the most recent developments in communication technology. It was also intended to provide information on the feasibility of a provincial communication network between the schools of British Columbia. It was…

Provides a detailed description of the microcomputer hardware and software used by the Euronet-Diane Launch Team for automating a number of functions associated with online searching. Background, login procedures, program architecture, maintenance problems, comments on lessons learned, and suggestions for avoiding difficulties with this type of…

This overview of local library online systems that integrate several functions covers functional integration, benefits of integrated systems, turnkey systems, minicomputer and microcomputer-based systems, interfacing automated systems, types of interfaces, linking homogenous and heterogeneous systems, role of vendors, library applications, linking…

Defines and discusses the equipment and software needed to start telecommunicating: modems (speed, autodial or manual dial, stand-alone or built-in), telephones, telecommunications software, and commercial information services, including electronic mail and bulletin boards. Definitions, communications protocols, equipment features, and costs are…

This report on the microcomputer-to-mainframe link highlights advantages and weaknesses of each system when used independently; technical considerations for link (personal computer emulates a dumb terminal, data transfer, selective data access category, nongeneric links); how librarians can use the link; availability of software; and planning for…

Important features of local area networks (LAN) are reviewed, and several microcomputer LANs are described (ARCnet, Hinet, ShareNet, Ethernet, Omninet, PLAN 4000). Results of survey of 10 libraries using or planning to use a microcomputer LAN and considerations in choosing a LAN are reported. Forty-one references are cited. (EJS)

This buyer's guide for personal computers is the result of two initiatives: to meet the need for a government-wide policy concerning the management of end user computing (EUC); and to condense procedures for EUC acquisition. The guide is for federal government line managers and professionals who are unfamiliar with step-by-step procedures used in…

This report describes "AppleLink," a communications system used by Apple employees, which combines an electronic mail system, bulletin boards, and databases. The development of AppleLink from the pilot project stage is described, and the basic functions and features of the system are detailed. Suggestions are made for the use of a…