Supplying data from mainframe computers to microcomputers is tedious because IBM mainframe computers use Extended Binary-Coded Decimal Interchange Code (EBCDIC) to represent data and microcomputers use an American National Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) code set. (MLF)

The author critically and thoroughly evaluates the text editing capabilities and performance of word processors and concludes that for programing applications MicroPro's WordMaster is the best software bargain around, with WordStar, Magic Wand, and Electric Pencil running behind. (KC)

The optimum use of the microcomputer can emerge when it competes both in cost effectiveness and actual qualitative performance with all other educational media available. Mainframe computers, available in most school districts, can share data with microcomputers via terminals in schools and classrooms and allow microcomputers to operate most…

An important development in the computerization of society is the development of the ability to communicate with a computer through human speech. Speech recognition machines with limited capabilities are available today. (BB)

Discusses topics involved in the selection of an analog-to-digital (ADC) converter and associated front-end signal conditioning hardware. Reviews what types of ADC's are available, best type for particular application, conversion rates, amplification, filtering, noise, and compatibility issues. Suggests purchase strategy and supplies names and…

Provides a prescriptive checklist describing necessary or desirable features for a typical application for use in choosing among 150 available data cassette recorders as an effective low-cost method for collecting data in machine-readable form from display terminals. Included are environmental considerations and purchasing information. (RAA)

Describes how the microcomputer is linked to the mainframe computer for effective communication within a business, discusses software packages available to facilitate this connection, and provides information on a new IBM product designed to serve as both a microcomputer and a terminal for a mainframe system. (MBR)

Describes a system for payroll reporting from geographically disparate locations in which data is entered, edited, and verified locally on minicomputers and then uploaded to a central computer for the standard payroll process. Communications and hardware, time-reporting software, data input techniques, system implementation, and its advantages are…

Described are types of programs used for processing text (editors, print formatters, and word processors), followed by the comparison of four word-processing packages: Auto Scribe, Electric Pencil, Magic Want and Word Star. With the exception of Auto Scribe, all programs reviewed are CP/M versions. (KC)

A word processing system developed at the University of Kansas is described. A cost-benefit analysis of the system v standard typewriter, mag-card, and other advanced word processing systems is developed. Intangible benefits such as worker satisfaction and reduced training and editing needs are discussed, and possible uses outlined. (MSE)

Pinpoints problems associated with personnel operations' inclusion in large complex information systems: personnel information system redesign requirements, potential confidentiality loss, reduced information accessibility, awkward data format requirements, and psychological problems. Discusses single chip micro-processor and micro-computer…

Analyzes computer terminal memory performance in terms of overflow probability and average queueing delay, and presents new method to derive a closed expression for data arrivals with Erlangly distributed interarrival times and an approach to derive steady state probability expressions of the terminal memory content process. Twenty references are…

The author describes the floppy disk with an analogy to the phonograph record, and discusses the advantages, disadvantages, and capabilities of hard-sectored and soft-sectored floppy disks. She concludes that, at present, the floppy disk will continue to be the primary choice of personal computer manufacturers and their customers. (KC)

Michigan's Wayne County Intermediate School District, which serves 36 constituent districts, has converted from a centralized to a distributed computer system, resulting in improved and expanded data processing service to local district administrators, staff, and students at a substantially lower cost. (Author/MLF)

The management of change, with implications for a systems approach to administration, is examined in terms of the uses made of technological and methodological devices. Institutions now have machinery that can present data useful in decision making in a variety of formats; which can build models for expenditure, for student and faculty…