Reviews five CD-ROM catalogs: (1) Auto-Graphics Impact; (2) Brodart LePac; (3) GRC LaserGuide; (4) Library Corporation Intelligent Catalog; and (5) MARCIVE Pac. General guidelines for selecting a CD-ROM catalog are discussed, and vendor addresses and telephone numbers are listed. (MES)

Describes a system that provides online access to holdings information for more than 4,500 journals on a single self-executing diskette. A brief discussion of data compression is offered, along with program listings in both BASIC and C. (MES)

The first section discusses two common styles of microcomputer consulting, when each is appropriate in libraries, and the dangers of using one type. The second section focuses on types of vaporware, the effects of each, and steps to minimize potential damage. A bibliography of this quarter's literature watch on microcomputer hardware and software…

Describes a public use microcomputer cluster at the University of Maine, Orono. Various network topologies, hardware and software options, installation problems, system management, and performance are discussed. (MES)

Survey of currently available CD-ROM products discusses: (1) subject orientation; (2) database type; (3) update frequency; (4) price structure; (5) hardware configuration; (6) retrieval software; and (7) publisher/marketer. Several graphs depict data in these areas. (five references) (MES)

Addresses the concept of adding sound to existing personal computers. Describes hardware and software options and explores uses of computers equipped with sound. Sidebars summarize the development of stereo sound in multimedia products and describe the two major forms of computer sound: Musical Instrument Digital Interface and digital sound waves.…

Describes microcomputer-based digital video technology and compares it to analog video. Topics discussed include converting analog video to digital data; digital image compression technology; digital compression and digital video on Macintosh computers; and potential library and information-related applications, including electronic publishing and…

Describes Microsoft's Windows with Multimedia Extensions Software for the IBM PC. Topics addressed include hardware and software requirements, enhancements to the standard Windows environment, computing standards utilized, how Multimedia Extensions interacts with applications and devices, extensibility and ease of use, and CD-ROM performance…

Describes the creation and use of macros for simple computer-aided instruction using the Open Access integrated software from SPI (Software Products International, UK). Sample screen displays are included. (MES)

Describes GeoWorks, a new graphical user interface (GUI) that works on older, less powerful IBM PCs and compatibles. The PC/GEOS (PC/Graphical Environment Operating System) is explained, user friendliness is emphasized, comparisons are made to Microsoft Windows, and GeoWorks applications software is described. (LRW)

Explains the cause of the Year 2000 (Y2K) problem for computers, how it manifests itself, and what can be done to fix it. Attention is given to both microcomputers and more powerful machines. (MSE)

Provides a step-by-step approach to test the Y2K readiness of computers. Gives advice on what actions to take if an organization's computer systems fail the test. (GR)

Selecting hardware and software for adult literacy instruction is a complicated task requiring careful attention to the integration of various computer models, software packages, and instructional objectives. Decisions surrounding the acquisition and maintenance of technology are further complicated by limited funding, expertise, information, and…

STATGRAPHICS, a statistical package written for the IBM PC/XT/AT, is reviewed. In addition to superb graphics, STATGRAPHICS is unequalled in time series procedures, quality control, linear programming, and other mathematical procedures. The modules for regression analysis, categorical data analysis, and nonparametric analysis are good, but contain…

Reviews three software packages: 1) a package containing 68 programs covering general topics in chemistry; 2) a package dealing with acid-base titration curves and allows for variables to be changed; 3) a chemistry tutorial and drill package. (MVL)