Examines the match between multimedia data and local area network (LAN) infrastructures. Highlights include applications for networked multimedia, i.e., asymmetric and symmetric; alternate LAN technology, including stream management software, Ethernet, FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface), and ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode); WAN (Wide Area…

Examines and reviews the ability of various software packages and database systems to recognize and process chemical structures generated by chemical drawing packages, especially the ability of relational database management systems to recognize and process chemical structures from a variety of sources. The need for better standard representations…

Considers recent developments in literary textual studies, examines characteristics of scholarly editions in paper form, identifies areas in which hypertext would be helpful, and proposes a hypertext model for studying scholarly texts. Improvements to existing software are suggested, and examples from an experimental system using Guide hypertext…

Describes "Synoname," the Getty Museum's computer program that matches varying versions of personal names for research purposes. Reports that the program uses an ordered algorithm sequence for pattern matching that includes both character- and word-matching techniques. Concludes that the technique can approach near-total accuracy at the…

Advantages of using online systems are described, and specific techniques for successfully transmitting computer text files are described. Topics covered include Microsoft's Rich TextFile, WordPerfect encoding, text compression, and especially encoding and decoding with UNIX programs. (LB)

Describes "l'autodictionnaire," a computer program created to help language learners enrich their vocabulary through the use of an electronic, modifiable dictionary. (SR)

"Crossword Creator" software allows users to generate crossword puzzles via computer. Vocational students can use it to learn computer skills while increasing technical vocabulary, practicing use of reference materials, learning cooperatively, and reinforcing spelling. (SK)

Discusses documenting object-oriented projects from the technical writer's perspective. Suggests that writers prepare themselves by becoming educated, getting comfortable with object-oriented concepts, understanding reuse, defining a development process with the rest of the project team, and defining document requirements using rapid prototyping.…

Describes how audio technology is being integrated into CD-ROMs to create multimedia products. Computer hardware and software are discussed, including the use of HyperCard to combine still pictures, moving video pictures, and sound; and specific new multimedia products produced by the Voyager Company are described. (LRW)

Discussion of computer viruses describes two types of viruses and how they work; suggests ways to prevent or minimize virus risk; and explains how to recognize a virus and limit damage once a virus attacks. A sidebar lists several antivirus software products. (two references) (NRP)

Explains NAPLPS (North American Presentation Layer Protocol Syntax), a graphic standard for the encoding of animated graphics, symbols as graphics, and text. Sources of information on NAPLPS are described, including shareware and other software; and use of NAPLPS on electronic bulletin board systems is discussed. (LRW)

Addresses the question of how to write computer programs using explicit knowledge and rules-based systems. Highlights include the knowledge representation tool; the knowledge base on programming; and results of experiments that tested the system. Appendices include the set of rules for the experimental knowledge base and details of two…

FlipPhr is a MicroSoft Windows application program that rearranges ("flips") phrases or other expressions in accordance with rules in a grammar. The flipping may be invoked with a single keystroke from within various Windows application programs that allow cutting and pasting of text. The user may modify the grammar to provide for…

Although presentation software enables visual enhancements such as 3-D and digital photographs, speakers must remember that the message is most important. Business educators should ensure that students have good speech skills and avoid overemphasizing technology. (SK)

Reports on difficulties that institutions of higher education are having with new integrated student-administration software systems being developed by PeopleSoft. Institutions have been reporting automation projects which are months behind schedule and budget overruns. The company has apologized and some institutions admit they share…