Provides tips for interpreting each column in the chart, which lists the features, intended uses, typical system prices, storage capacities, operating systems, programing languages available, interface devices, and manufacturer's or distributor's addresses for home and business microcomputer systems priced under $6,000. (JL)

Discussion of DOS computing focuses on portable personal computers. Reviews based on "PC Magazine" for each year since 1985 for portables, laptops, notebooks, and subnotebooks that include prices are provided; and vendor reliability is considered. (LRW)

Lists 57 computer systems ranging in price from $6000 to $15,000. Information given for each system listed includes typical system price, type of microprocessor used in the system, amount of RAM, type of display system, graphics capability, type of operating system, available languages and software, and company address. (JL)

Presents third installment of directory published in four parts in June and August issues of "Database" and July and September "Online." Description, company, compatibility, type of laserdisk, search and retrieval software, interface with magnetic media, conditions of usage, price, and status information are given for 11 products. Company names…

Discusses the characteristics, limitations, uses, and programing features of the Radio Shack Model 100, one of the first truly portable personal computers, and describes how it differs from a "transportable" computer in weight, size, and features. (MBR)

Contains four tables summarizing the features of popular word processing programs for such microcomputers as the Radio Shack TRS-80s, the Apples, and the Atari. A list of vendors from whom the software packages are available is also provided. (Author/JL)

Describes the features and performance of the Radio Shack TRS-80 Pocket Computer. Programming capacity, various system commands, and the speed of the computer's operations are discussed. (JL)

Briefly describes the history of computer printers, discusses recent developments, and outlines some of the potential characteristics of future printers. Included are a glossary of terms commonly used to describe the various features of printers and a table listing the manufacturers' addresses, specifications, and costs of over 150 currently…

Provides an overview of how optical storage technologies--videodisk, Write-Once disks, and CD-ROM CD-I disks are built into and controlled via DEC, Apple, Atari, Amiga, and IBM PC compatible microcomputers. Several available products are noted and a list of producers is included. (EM)

Second installment of directory published in four parts in "Database" (June and August) and "Online" (July and September) provides descriptions of 17 laserdisk products together with information on the producer, compatibility, type of laserdisk, search and retrieval software, interface with magnetic media, conditions of usage, price, and status.…

Lists microcomputer-videodisc interfaces currently available from 26 sources, including home use systems connected through remote control jack and industrial/educational systems utilizing computer ports and new laser reflective and stylus technology. Information provided includes computer and videodisc type, language, authoring system, educational…

Describes three popular "shareware" computer programs: PC-Write (word processing program for IBM PC and compatibles); PC-File III (electronic file system); PC-Talk III (communications program). Shareware programs are marketed at minimum profit with maximum distribution and unlimited acceptance test; are protected by copyright; and…

Reviews six operationally compatible microcomputers that are most able to run IBM software without modifications--Compaq, Columbia, Corona, Hyperion, Eagle PC, and Chameleon. Information given for each includes manufacturer, uses, standard features, base list price, typical system price, and options and accessories. (MBR)

Description of portable microcomputers discusses design features of Tandy TRS-80, Nippon Electric Company PC-8200, Epson HX-20, Texas Instruments TI CC 40, and Convergent Technologies' Workslate and provides several caveats and recommendations to those making purchasing decisions. Potential uses for portable microcomputers in education are also…

Reviews the basic concepts and technology behind the functions computers perform, describes the miniaturization of computer components, discusses the development of the microprocessor and the microcomputer, and makes projections concerning the future of the microcomputer market. Information is provided on the features, costs, and manufacturers of…