Examines options for buying microcomputers (the manufacturer or his/her representative, computer stores, general retail stores, mail order, system integrators, traditional vendors, second-hand). Three major factors are considered: support before sale; price/cost; and support after sale. Advantages and disadvantages of each option and…

Description of "Decision-Analyst," microcomputer software tool designed to analyze complex decisions involving many alternatives, highlights step-by-step approach, documentation, microcomputer requirements, and purchasing information. Two microcomputer users' groups (Apple Computer, Microcomputer Users Group for Libraries in North…

Discusses the various factors involved in the selection of a satisfactory and flexible microcomputer system, with emphasis on the limited technological sophistication of current models produced by Apple, Radio Shack, and others. Disk operating systems, questions of intersystem compatibility, and the future of microprocessor chip technology are…

Documentation of author's personal experience in the purchasing of a microcomputer discusses background learning, the purchase decision, needs assessment, computer literacy, general information on microcomputers, the situation assessment, and the final check. (EJS)

Review of text processing software for microcomputers covers data entry, text editing, document formatting, and spelling and proofreading programs including "Wordstar,""PeachText,""PerfectWriter,""Select," and "The Word Plus.""The Whole Earth Software Catalog" and a new terminal to be…

Suggests guidelines for selecting microcomputers, reviews present status of microcomputer industry, projects microcomputer capabilities for 1988 and 1998, and discusses implications of recent trends on microcomputer purchasing. It is concluded that buyers interested in a microcomputer for information management will make a safe decision selecting…