Provides background and insight into the totally new telecommunications network recently implemented by OCLC, as well as steps taken to assure that catastrophic events at critical carrier-network locations or disruptive cuts in carrier cable facilities do not result in widespread service outages for OCLC users. (four references) (DB)

Introduces an extension of the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) for closed multiparty conferences; the extension expands SIP for discovery of participant identities in a conference, and ensures that each participant is notified before a new participant joins. Verifies this extension by applying it to two SIP conference models. Concludes with an…

Discusses ways in which artificial intelligence could be applied to improve the ease of use, quality of retrieval, and organization of data in online services or CD-ROM. (MES)

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Libraries intend to provide a gateway from the campus-wide telecommunications network into the electronic, printed, and human resources offered by the library systems. The design of such a gateway requires an understanding of both current and potential library users, the needs of those users, their…

Describes levels of Internet connectivity, physical connections, and connection speeds. Compares options for connecting to the Internet, including terminal accounts, dial-up terminal accounts, direct connections through a local area network, and direct connections using SLIP (Serial Line Internet Protocol) or PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol). (eight…

Describes the components--hardware, software and applications, CD-ROM and online reference resources, and telecommunications links--of an electronic library workstation in use at Clarkson University (Potsdam, New York). Data manipulation, a hypothetical research scenario, and recommended workstation capabilities are also discussed. (MES)

Assesses BRUNET, a campuswide network that links more than 100 academic and administrative buildings and 40 dormitories. Notes a key element is hierarchical network management and support. Discusses the deployment, security, and use of four networking spheres in the system. (MVL)

Describes and evaluates LIBS Internet Access Software (also called Sonoma Software), which offers automatic Telnet connection to remote library catalogs, databases, information services, campuswide information services, and other wide-area information access tools. Instructions for obtaining and installing the software are given, and a comparison…

Investigates Project CANS (Computer-Assisted Network Systems), a program to develop computer-assisted instruction, computer-managed instruction and computer-managed classroom activities in Cook County, Illinois. Discusses the operation of the program since 1984. Provides a description of the equipment available to each classroom and building. (MVL)

This book provides an overview and status report on the progress made in developing the National Research and Education Network (NREN) as of early 1991. It reports on a number of investigations that provide a research and policy perspective on the NREN and computer-mediated communication (CMC), and brings together key source documents that have…

Describes the Eastern Oregon Information Network (EOIN) that was developed to provide off-campus students with dial-in remote access to CD-ROM indexes, an interlibrary loan network module, and an electronic mail system. A sidebar, "Making Remote Access Happen--A Developer's View" (Kenneth Girrard) is included. (EAM)

An electronic communications network called Te Wahapu has been developed by Te Wahanga Kaupapa Maori of the New Zealand Council for Educational Research to facilitate the exchange of information and provide access to resources relating to Maori language and Maori education. The system, which was officially launched in May 1991, is set up as an…