Examines retail sales of CD-ROMs. Topics addressed include the current situation in CD-ROM retailing; channel distribution options; myths and realities of CD-ROM distribution; the distributor; affiliate labels; sales representatives; copublishers; distribution options; distributing resources; and recommendations for new CD-ROM publishers. (LRW)

Discusses the identification of copyright ownership where there may not be a formal notice of copyright in the traditional print sense. Compilations of information on CD-ROMs and other optical media are addressed, the formation of standards by the National Information Standards Organization (NISO) is described, and relevant legal decisions are…

An interview with Bert Gall of Philips International describes compact-disk interactive (CD-I) and covers related issues of compatibility with other media, availability, standards, production, and the future outlook. A 17-item bibliography for further reading on CD-I is included. (MES)

Discusses whether and how compact disk technology can make trainers more effective in improving human performance within organizations. Includes basic information on CD-ROM (compact disk-read only memory). (JOW)

CD-ROM training applications are becoming more appealing as systems develop faster response time, are able to play full-screen full-motion video, have better courseware, and solve problems with incompatible platforms. (SK)

Discusses various optical disk formats, including 5 1/4 inch and smaller, 12-inch, and 14-inch. Typical applications and factors to be considered in format selection are covered. (MES)

Presents a "family tree" of optical technologies with a list of definitions, and briefly discusses some of the issues relating to optical technologies and their use in libraries. (CLB)

Reviews requirements for a data archive system and describes storage media alternatives that are currently available. Topics discussed include data storage; data distribution; hierarchical storage architecture, including inline storage, online storage, nearline storage, and offline storage; magnetic disks; optical disks; conventional magnetic…

Describes computer storage devices and suggests implications for electronic publishing. Highlights include magnetic storage media, including digital audio tape (DAT); high-capacity magnetic drives; optical storage technologies, including CD-ROM and WORM; magneto-optical drives; and a sidebar that discusses other storage technologies. (21…

Examines the expectations and reality of optical disk market forecasts published between 1980 and 1990. A historical survey and review of these studies is presented, with general forecasts of all optical disk types included. It is concluded that unrealistic predictions may have contributed to a sluggish market for optical disks. (70 notes)…

Examines the two most frequently cited approaches to making video and audio passages available to teachers in the classroom: videodiscs and digital video interactive. (HB)

Business education in universities should include training in microcomputer-based information acquisition techniques. This paper describes some of the recent advances in the field of electronic data retrieval, assesses advantages and disadvantages, and offers suggestions for incorporating electronic data retrieval exercises into business classes.…

Describes a number of different frames of reference through which educators can look at the opportunity presented by compact-disc interactive (CD-I) technology, and proposes general guidelines to help them begin thinking about a more creative role as prospective authors of CD-I materials. (MES)

Discusses the uses of videodisks and laserdisks in the elementary classroom. (MG)

Compares current problems with optical disks to errors made with past technological innovations in libraries. Lack of hardware standardization, software incompatibility, and high prices are discussed. Widespread library commitment not to purchase optical disc systems until both technical standards and price guidelines are established is advocated.…