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…

Fourth installment of a directory published in four parts in "Database" (June and August) and "Online" (July and September) provides descriptions of 12 laserdisk products together with information on the producer, compatibility, type of laserdisk, search and retrieval software, interface with magnetic media, conditions of usage, price, and status.…

This continuation of the previously published four part directory reports information on several additional laserdisk databases and provides updates on some of those included in the original listing. Included in the product descriptions are producers; compatibility; type of laserdisk; software; interface with magnetic media; conditions of usage;…

Explores the use of analog optical disks as a practical, cost effective means of building picture databases. Questions that should be asked to determine whether optical disk is a suitable picture storage alternative for a particular application are identified and three implementation issues--imaging, indexing, and integrating--are discussed. (CLB)

This annotated bibliography contains citations for over 70 recently published journal articles, reports, and monographs on the subject of optical disks. Items are arranged alphabetically by author with annotations plus additional notes where appropriate. (CLB)

Examines the current development of computer compact disk storage devices (CD-ROM). Describes the basics of how the CD-ROM operates and identifies educational uses. Lists companies currently providing CD-ROM software and producing CD-ROM players. (MVL)

Examines factors which may affect the receptivity of librarians to the use of optical disk technologies, including hardware and software issues, the content of currently available databases, and the integration of optical technologies into existing library services. (CLB)

The objectives of this project were to assist the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) in developing a policy for the representation, transfer, access, and preservation of electronic records of permanent value. A lack of attention to the management, retention, and selective preservation of these machine-readable records will result…

Reviews the development of technological innovations in information delivery, including microforms, electronic processing, online distribution, full-text abstracts online, floppy disks, downloading, vertical integration, electronic publishing, and optical disks. The impact of technology on the information industry and the need to use technology…

Provides a technological overview of CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), an optically-based medium for data storage offering large storage capacity, computer-based delivery system, read-only medium, and economic mass production. CD-ROM database attributes appropriate for information delivery are also reviewed, including large database size,…

Seven experts in system planning offer their views on how optical disk systems will affect library participation in online networks, and discuss opportunities presented by these new products. (CLB)

Discusses current optical data disk databases, their uses, and factors that will affect database copyrights. The factors discussed include hardware and software developments, multimedia applications, multiuser capabilities, and downloading capacities. (7 references) (CLB)

Discusses digital imaging technology and examines document database conversion considerations. Two types of document imaging systems are described: (1) a work in process system, and (2) a storage and retrieval system. Conversion methodology is outlined, and a document conversion scenario is presented as a practical guide to conversion. (LRW)

Discusses CD-ROM with an emphasis on aspects that librarians need to know. The topics covered include the technology; installations and cost; advantages and disadvantages for libraries; products of interest to librarians; and selection issues. Other optical storage media are described and sources for further information are provided. (37…

Discusses factors that should be considered by buyers and producers of databases on CD-ROM (compact disc-read only memory). The advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM are also discussed and compared with those of magnetic and print media, and market projections are provided. (CLB)