Discusses the design and limited uses of the Pascal, MS-DOS, CP/M, and PC-DOS operating systems as standard operating systems for 16-bit microprocessors, especially with the more sophisticated microcomputers currently being developed. Advantages and disadvantages of Unix--a multitasking, multiuser operating system--as a standard operating system…

Describes the computer field before the advent of CP/M (Control Program for Microcomputers), an operating system which facilitated compatibility between different computers. CP/M's functions and flaws and the advent of Apple DOS and UCSD Pascal, two additional widely used operating systems, and the significance of their development are also…

The article describes 14 recent devices and software programs which can be used to improve access by special needs populations to the Macintosh computer. (Author/DB)

Describes seven methods to transfer data from Apple computer disks to IBM computer disks and vice versa: print out data and retype; use a commercial software package, optical-character reader, homemade cable, or modem to pass or transfer data directly; pay commercial data-transfer service; or store files on mainframe and download. (MBR)

This paper describes the prototype of a software package being developed in England for use as an inexpensive and flexible speech synthesizer. The system, which uses a standard IBM-compatible laptop computer, color graphics, and a hard disk drive, provides flexibility in changing the nature of the speech available and how it is organized. (JDD)

Describes features of five new software programs--Songwriter, Musical Ideas, Musicalc I, Musical Construction Set, Musicland, and Music Designer II--which facilitate musical composition and musical creativity in a variety of ways. Shortcomings are briefly discussed, and sources for further information are given. (MBR)

Description of the portable Apple IIc includes its flat panel display; a new microprocessor, the 65CO2; its new design language; layout; documentation, including interactive tutorials; software support; and cost. Apple IIc's competitors and its new printer, the Scribe, are also discussed. (MBR)

The case study describes microtechnological aids for a quadriplegic preschool aged boy dependent on a ventilator via a tracheostomy. Provision of a computer, a variety of specially designed switches and software, together with a self-driven powered wheelchair maximized expression of his developmental needs. (DB)

Describes a high school music technology course that uses a project-oriented approach to teach students about hardware and software tools for sequencing, arranging, multitrack recording, and mixing. Course equipment is listed, and the MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is briefly described. Copyright guidelines for educational uses of…

This interview with Dr. Toshi Doi, director of the Sony Corporation, covers his work at Sony, the multimedia industry, industry cooperation, Sony compact disc products and formats, multimedia standards and pricing, multimedia formats, and the future of the industry. A diagram of computer companies and corresponding multimedia platforms is…

Discusses changes in the publishing industry resulting from digital electronic networks and optical storage technologies, and explains attributes of information products as types of value for both print and electronic contexts. Electronic products necessary for a shift from paper to electronic formats are identified, and legal issues are…

This guide discusses four types of microcomputer-based communication programs that could prove useful to evaluators: (1) the direct communication of information generated by one computer to another computer; (2) using the microcomputer as a terminal to a mainframe computer to input, direct the analysis of, and/or output data using a statistical…

Recent developments in the field of computer communication are reviewed, and ways in which these technologies can be used to make anthropology more productive and effective are examined. Computer communication is defined as the communication of symbolic information from one location to another electronically over phone lines, satellite links, or…

The paper briefly discusses the design of computers to allow their use by the 20% of the American population who have reduced abilities in such areas as manipulation, vision, hearing, and cognition. The role of manufacturers of standard computers in increasing computer accessibility is one of providing computers that can be used by an increasing…

The two information fact sheets describe (1) available computer options for use with a handicapped individual and (2) available communication techniques or aids for a severely physically handicapped son or daughter. The first fact sheet considers three ways a physically disabled individual can use a microcomputer: using special software designed…