Harwell Automated Loans System—HAL, using STATUS

Abstract

The paper describes the transfer from an early, batch‐process, custom‐designed, automated library loans system using teletypewriters and paper tape input; to a modern loans system based on the STATUS package. HAL is also a batch‐process system but has some on‐line facilities. It uses a microprocessor, two VDUs and a Decwriter. Reasons for the change; system design and implementation; the difficulties encountered; an outline of the cost; and the advantages are described. The paper concludes with a brief, technical description of HAL software (Appendix A); and examples of screen prompts and print‐out (Appendix B).

Citation

Wilson, C.W.J., Haynes, E.M. and Teskey, F.N. (1981), "Harwell Automated Loans System—HAL, using STATUS", Program: electronic library and information systems, Vol. 15 No. 2, pp. 43-65. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb046821