In order to help users make informed decisions when buying communications software, this article suggests that buyers consider communications software compatibility; software protocols for data transmission; software products offering compatibility with Telenet, Prestel, and Ethernet/XTEN; specific intended applications; and specialized features…

Describes an inexpensive, simple, microprocessor-based instrument which quickly and accurately measures and displays the indicated power and the pressure-volume indicator diagram of a reciprocating compressor or internal combustion engine. Hardware requirements, software considerations, and the instrument's educational value are discussed. (JN)

Reviews types and evaluates effectiveness of microcomputer-based training for managers: electronic workbooks, simulations/games, expert systems, and management support systems. (SK)

Explores the use of microcomputers in readability calculation. (DF)

A computer program for office layout design written for an Apple computer is discussed. Through its application, the user is freed from the tedious tasks of template manipulation and manual drawing and can therefore concentrate on the creative part of the design process. (Author/JN)

This study assesses the relationship of student performance using two microcomputer instructional application software designs, one with graphics and the other without graphics, as a teaching aid in comma usage. Results indicated that there was no significant difference in performance between the graphic and nongraphic treatment groups. (CT)

The article analyzes software for assessing language, noting advantages and disadvantages of such programs as Computerized Language Sample Analysis and Lingquest 1 Language Sample Analysis. In addition, software for assessing phonetic and phonological performance is also considered. (CL)

Explains how a microcomputer and a word processor can be utilized to keep teachers' records and presents a brief BASIC word processing program called SCRIPSIT to show how grades can be calculated from those records. Possible program modifications and how to construct the SCRIPSIT file are discussed. (MBR)

The home computer must be outfitted with high quality software to be a valuable educational tool. Suggestions on where to look for software and standards to use in evaluating materials are offered. (DF)

Discusses basic features and functions of spreadsheet programs and describes additional capabilities (editing, windowing, graphics, and word processing) of two second-generation spreadsheet programs: Lotus 1-2-3 and Symphony. (MBR)

Describes microcomputer-based automation for library applications, noting use of inexpensive (sometimes free) existing programs and software such as dBase II to write or modify programs to meet specific needs. Programs written for the IBM PC-XT to produce serials lists and analyze serials collections are included. Five references are listed. (EJS)

Suggestions are provided on diskette care, software worth seeing, teaching that computers can't do everything, and a debugging activity. (MNS)

A Commodore-64 microcomputer was used to develop a system which is useful for a variety of teaching laboratory and real time control applications. Hardware and software requirements and examples of experimental work with the system are provided. (JN)

Describes the computer field before the advent of CP/M (Control Program for Microcomputers), an operating system which facilitated compatibility between different computers. CP/M's functions and flaws and the advent of Apple DOS and UCSD Pascal, two additional widely used operating systems, and the significance of their development are also…

Provides a step-by-step approach for administrators to follow when becoming aquainted with their first computer. (MD)