Explains the use of a standard text-based database program (i.e., dBase III) to run external programs that display graphic files during a database session and reduces costs normally encountered when preparing a computer to run a graphical database. An example is given of a simple database with two fields. (LRW)

Describes an instructional database for microcomputers which is designed to eliminate the need for costly textbooks and to aid professors in many of their instructional responsibilities. Various types of databases are explained, and guidelines for hardware selection and backup systems are discussed. (LRW)

Describes the use of a microcomputer system at the elementary school level in which pupils can access information by subject, author, or title as in a standard card catalog. (CHC)

Discusses issues relating to recent introductions of CD-ROM technologies in libraries and considerations that have motivated libraries to choose networking CD-ROMs over the standalone approach. Factors discussed include cost effectiveness, the flexibility of the networking approach, and performance considerations. A glossary of terms is provided.…

Alternative educational applications of microcomputer technology in allied health are discussed, including word-processing software for creation and revision of syllabi, exams, and handouts; database management software for creation of large sets of bibliographic references, storage and retrieval of data on students; spreadsheet software; and…

Describes desired software enhancements identified by the Southern California Online Users Group in the areas of search language, database selection, document retrieval and display, user interface, customer support, and cost and economic issues. The need to prioritize these wishes and to determine whether features should reside in the mainframe or…

Discusses the problems encountered in viewing original works of art for scholarship purposes, and argues that a combination of videodisks and computers offers a cost effective method of reproduction. A description of the development of the Perseus Project, a visual database of ancient Greece, focuses on advantages to scholars. (CLB)

Discusses the technological changes that will necessitate the prospective conversion of library data over the next decade and addresses the problems of converting data from obsolete personal computers to newer models that feature radically different operating systems. Three case studies are used to illustrate possible scenarios. (11 references)…

Discusses development of digital optical discs and considers both positive and negative features of CD-ROM for information services. Topics discussed include microcomputer-based databases; cost effectiveness; online searching by users; new user populations; the status of information specialists; lack of standards; and future possibilities. (Five…

Discusses optical character recognition (OCR) for use with MS-DOS microcomputers. Cost effectiveness is considered, three types of software approaches to character recognition are explained, hardware and operation requirements are described, possible library applications are discussed, future OCR developments are suggested, and a list of OCR…

Describes and compares three versions of the ERIC database that are available on optical data disks: (1) DIALOG OnDisc ERIC; (2) OCLC Search CD450; and (3) SilverPlatter ERIC. The database contents, software and search commands, hardware requirements, notable features, and costs of each version are discussed. (CLB)

The origin and evolution of management programs at Stanford University Medical Center that have proven instrumental in guiding the implementation of a cost-effective microcomputer workstation environment are described. (Author/MLW)

Identifies the questions librarians should ask before adopting local online, and compares the advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM and site database systems. User reactions to local online are discussed and the impact of such systems on reference services and the reference librarian's job content are examined. (CLB)

Provides an overview of HYTREM (Hybrid Text-Retrieval Machine), a high-performance, cost-effective text-retrieval machine that handles information in large textual databases. Describes HYTREM's software and hardware design principles and presents an evaluation of system performance in relation to user demand and access versus system capacity. (JMV)

Describes the implementation of a project that provides dial-up access to MEDLINE on remote optical data disk (CD-ROM) using software that enables callers to use programs like Wordstar, Lotus, and dBase. Highlights include networking CD-ROM databases, hardware considerations, advantages and disadvantages of remote access, and future plans. A…