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A parallel‐processor computer contains multiple CPUs that share such system resources as memory and disk storage. A parallel‐processor computer is expanded not by adding another computer, but by plugging another CPU into the computer. This technology offers expandability, compact size, high performance, high reliability, and moderate cost. The Sequent Balance Parallel‐Processor Computer is described in some detail. A fully configured Balance 21000 can execute 21 MIPS (million instructions per second). It implements the UNIX operating system, which has been widely adopted. As a result, many software packages for word processing and other applications are available from third‐party vendors. Performance tests conducted by CLSI, Inc. indicate that twenty concurrent users on a parallel‐processor system can perform CPU‐intense functions up to seven times faster than on a single‐processor system.

As the heart of a computer system's software, the database management system is the key to the maintenance of data and effective management reporting. Since it is involved in virtually every transaction, it is also critical to robust system performance. CLSI, Inc. recently evaluated five relational database management systems, selecting Ingres, Version 6.0, around which to develop its next generation of functionality. The criteria for selecting Ingres, Version 6.0, are discussed.

CLSI has recently announced a radical new development path for its LIBS‐100 library automation system. CLSI's previous intention was to migrate from the current PDP‐11 — based system to DEC VAX hardware to provide a capability for large libraries; this strategy has now been abandoned in favour of one which aims to take advantage both of state‐of‐the‐art processing capabilities and of a standard operating system environment.