Search results

Examines a method of using more than one CD‐ROM database on a single hard disk. Discusses the use of AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS on DOS, the additional problems that can occur with multiple database used by people lacking DOS skills, and lists the batch files that should be created in the root directory. Concludes that the system suggested should not be used by rote, since every hard drive has a unique file structure: also the technique is susceptible to the inappropriate use of other DOS commands.

Considers the problems associated with OCLC′s decision to guarantee continued support for the OCLC M300 and M300XT workstations after July 1993. Examines some libraries′ plans to recycle workstations for new non‐OCLC purposes; others′ decision to upgrade. Details steps taken to adapt these machines for use on the PRISM online system.

Considers the problems that can be encountered when using DOS 5.0 with software such as PASSPORT. Discusses ways of circumventing incompatibility problems using DOS 5.0′s Setver command, as a step‐by‐step process: edit Config.sys, instruct Setver, and rebooting the computer. Concludes that the Setver command exists as a “lie” to make DOS 5.0 files acceptable, and as such is necessary when running programs incompatible with it.

Continues on the theme of an earlier article, this time dealing with installation and maintenance of Local Area Networks. Discusses the importance of having a LAN manager and details problems likely to occur when installing a LAN.

Identifies the three reasons that LANs are used in libraries: to share expensive hardware; to share information resources; and to facilitate communication. Touches briefly on the subject of LAN hardware and software.

Have you ever wished your IBM‐compatible PC ran faster? Not everyone can afford a new AT, but for a few dollars and an hour's effort, you can increase the speed of your PC from five to ten percent. The secret of this increase is the new NEC V20 chip.

PC‐File (a readily available shareware program) gives you two ways to save yourself typing and time:

Provides a bibliography of CD‐ROM for librarians, covering case studies, costs, product evaluation guidelines, databases, CDI, downloading/copyright and CD vs. online, for use when making decisions about the adoption of CD‐ROM.

A library that wishes to locate OCLC M300 Workstations and other terminals more than sixty feet apart is faced with an important decision. OCLC does not authorize the use of cables longer than sixty feet. This is also the longest cable obtainable from OCLC. OCLC's solution is to install an additional modem for the distant terminal or a pair of OCLC Line Extenders. The financial incentive for a library to use a longer cable as opposed to installing an additional OCLC Paradyne modem or the OCLC Line Extenders is significant.

Helen Holland of Corvallis Public Library reports that she produces labels using the Cataloging Micro Enhancer software. She says her method, which involves an extra step, will work until version 2 of the software is released.