A brief look at which spare parts to stock for video equipment in order to minimize equipment downtime. (AK)

The concept of freight pass-through pricing (FPT) as used by booksellers and publishers is explained, noting variations in FPT, recent actions and reactions, FPT pricing and libraries, and recent changes in FPT. (EJS)

Looks at microcomputers manufactured by Altos Computer Systems, Cromemco, Exidy, Intelligent Systems, Intertec Data Systems, Mattel, Nippon Electronics, Northstar, Personal Micro Computers, and Sinclair. (Part I of this article, examining other computers, appeared in the May 1981 issue.) Journal availability: Hayden Publishing Company, 50 Essex…

Suggestions for schools considering the purchase of word processing equipment are presented. Procedures for selecting equipment include getting information on prices, servicing, warranties, training, speed of printing, and quality of output. Choices to make include brand vs. service, price vs. service, and variety vs. limitations of brands. (CT)

Begins a two-part look at some of the personal computers now on the market. Discusses microcomputers being offered by Apple, Atari, Commodore (PET), Heath, Hewlett-Packard, Ohio Scientific, Osborne, Radio Shack (TRS-80), and Texas Instruments. Journal availability: Hayden Publishing Company, 50 Essex Street, Rochelle Park, NJ 07662. (Author/SJL)

Provides suggestions about working with electronic flash equipment and describes 16 features to consider when purchasing such equipment, including cost, size, power, and such factors as recharge and recycle time, automatic settings, and angle of coverage. (TJ)

Discusses the many factors schools and universities should consider when purchasing furniture, including its impact on the learning environment. (EV)

Offers advice on choosing between carpet or vinyl tile (VCT) for college buildings, including issues such as maintenance, acoustics, safety, and aesthetics. (EV)

Contains a comprehensive directory of suppliers and products for educational facilities, and listings of educational architects and educational associations. Also contains a 2002 article index, a calendar of major education trade shows, the 2003 editorial calendar, and free information cards. (EV)

Discusses the options in furnishings for school auditoriums and provides tips for decision-making. (EV)

Explaining that tight finances are forcing colleges to rethink spending on information technology, offers 10 strategies to help minimize costs. (EV)

Explains the benefits of e-procurement (ordering supplies through computer networks) and discusses what colleges should look for when choosing a service provider. (EV)

Explains price and product discrimination, showing how intelligent consumers can achieve increased purchasing power of their income and discusses how consumer educators can explain this discrimination. Evaluates the pros and cons of price/product discrimination from the social viewpoint. (Author/JOW)

Presents a model for the purchase of computer-aided design (CAD) software: collect general information, observe CAD in use, arrange onsite demonstrations, select CAD software and hardware, and choose a vendor. (JOW)

Provides advice from university administrators and manufacturers on door purchasing, installation, and maintenance. Highlights door manufacturing companies and selected products. (GR)