The nature of many computerized community bulletin boards is described. A system called Communitree is profiled as a version with many distinct advantages over generic bulletin board systems. It is felt that their strong points are carefully orchestrated details, and their weak points are intelligent compromises. (MP)

Recent and expected developments in the computer industry are discussed in this 628-page yearbook, successor to "The Punched Card Annual." The first section of the report is an overview of current computer hardware and software and includes articles about future applications of mainframes, an analysis of the software industry, and a summary of the…

Bi-directional cable TV (CATV) systems that are being installed today may not be well suited for computer communications. Older CATV systems are being modified to bi-directional transmission and most new systems are being built with bi-directional capability included. The extreme bandwidth requirement for carrying 20 or more TV channels on a…

Use of the computer in the design and operation of broadband communication systems are discussed. The current status of computer aided design is reviewed, with consideration ranging from components to total systems and networks. Future applications of computers to design, simulation, operation, maintenance, and economic modeling and…

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)

Examines high school and small college applications of computer bulletin-board service. Considers administrative problems. Suggests further applications. (JM)

The author argues that programs to prepare the casual computer user are needed. Too much emphasis has been placed on thorough understanding of the working of the machine, and not enough on general principles of man-machine interaction. (SD)

Discusses interdependence of computers and microelectronics, importance of programing, offices of the future, communications for the 1980s, emerging information systems, and the inexpensive, fast, and reliable small devices such as memory chips. (JN)

Discusses computer programs and courses offered to children and teachers at the new Future Center at the Capital Children's Museum, and describes the displays and activities of the communications exhibit and Kid-Net, a minicomputer based time-sharing system for which a series of computer programs for use by visitors will be developed. (RBF)

Minicomputer networking can be an alternative solution to the problem of implementing various computer systems in universities. In its simplest case, networking takes the form of multiple small computers communicating over telephone lines to a larger host minicomputer which in turn communicates with the central mainframe. Using computers in this…

Offers the potential user of digital computers information and suggestions for acquiring a time-sharing system. The results of a survey of the equipment, cost, and services offered by a sample of time-sharing firms are presented. (LC)

Educational institutions use networks to connect devices to a common line or central course to share resources. Presented is information for selecting the best network system for present and future needs. Discusses configuration of line; transmission methods, rates, and lines; cable length; price; and interfacing. (DC)

A series of tests using OpScan 100DM optical scanner were carried out to determine whether it can mechanically transport paper that does not comply with the manufacturer's specifications for weight and size and see if standard paper stock has sufficient quality, opacity, and brightness to permit it to be used to print forms for the OpScan 100DM.…

A television-telephone-computer system was used to teach approximately a hundred teachers about computers in 8 TV lessons. Additional study materials were available to some groups through the system. The subjects did learn about computers, were able to use the system, and rated the system favorably as a pedagogical tool. While technically…