bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of the Volume Fraction of Silver on the Thermal Resistance of Die Attach Adhesives
Authors: Bjomeklett A. , Kristiansen H.
Published: February 2008

A theory for the thermal resistance in adhesive joints between semiconductor dice and substrates has been developed. The theory takes into account the thermomechanical shear stress in the bond layer caused by differences in thermal expansion. The theoretical result indicates that only small reductions in thermal resistance can be obtained by increasing the bulk thermal conductivity of the adhesive by filling it with silver particles. Experiments were carried out in order to verify this effect. An epoxy resin was loaded with various amounts of silver particles and used to bond thermal test chips to copper substrates. There was a surprisingly small difference in thermal resistance between the various adhesives. The difference was considerably less than the difference in bulk thermal conductivity indicated, thus confirming the basic result of the theory.
Flip Chip Attach of Silicon and GaAs Fine Pitch Devices as well as Inner Lead TAB Attach Using Ball‐bump Technology
Authors: Eldring J. , Zakel E. , Reichl H.
Published: February 2008

Ball‐bumping is a flexible low cost bumping technology based on the conventional wire bonding procedure. It is applicable to single chips or whole wafers as well as to substrates. As established wire‐bonding machines can be used, expensive bumping‐process equipment for phototooling and plating is not necessary. Flip‐chip bonding is the most advantageous attach method of high frequency applications. Compared with wire‐bonding and TAB it allows the highest contact density, the shortest signal paths and lowest interconnection parasitics. The reduced pad sizes and pitches, not only of GaAs devices, demand a well controlled bump deformation during flip‐chip bonding. This work develops process parameters for the flip‐chip bonding of silicon and GaAs devices with respect to the best interconnection result by lowest bonding force and ball‐bump deformation. Ball‐bumps with diameters of 50 and 80 urn (2.0 and 3.2 mils) were created using 98% AuPd bump wire with diameters of 18 µm (0.7 mil) and 25 µm (1.0 mil) respectively. Ball‐bumping with a minimal pitch of 70 µm (2.8 mils) has been achieved. A special preparation allowed the shear test investigation of each bump/pad interface after flip‐chip attach. Bonding forces of 20 and 25 cN/bump respectively lead to a good welding in the bump/substrate interface due to the special shape of ball‐bumps. For silicon devices which have a pad metallisation of aluminium, the shear forces of the bump/pad interface increase after flip‐chip bonding, too. No cratering of GaAs and silicon occurs after flip‐chip bonding due to a low bonding force ramp of 5 cN/s and 10 cN/s respectively. The flip‐chip attach of a Fujitsu FLR 016 GaAs‐FET which has pad sizes of 35 urn is demonstrated. In this case, substrate bumping is the more advantageous bumping method. The feasibility of fine‐pitch TAB attach using ball‐bumps is introduced. 100 µm (3.9 mils) pitch silicon devices with 328 pads were ball‐bumped for both solder and thermal‐compression TAB. Bond forces were in the range of 9–11 cN/bump and 15–21 cN/bump respectively. Pull forces of approximately 30 cN/lead show good results of the bump/lead interconnection after TAB.
Design and Processing Considerations for the Use of a Crystallising Low Temperature Cofiring Ceramic Tape System with Integratable Passive Components
Authors: Sjöling B. , Turvey S.P. , Alexander J.H.
Published: February 2008

Low temperature cofiring ceramic tape (LTCC) is increasingly used for the production of complex three‐dimensional multilayer interconnect structures in microelectronics packaging. LTCC technology offers many attractive features including mechanical strength, high temperature performance, hermeticity and, with advanced crystallisable ceramic compositions, such as the Ferro A6 tape, outstanding microwave performance. Key among properties that discriminate LTCC technology from competing packaging approaches are two features that allow both design flexibility and maximum integratability: the ability to integrate the full range of passive components — resistors, capacitors and inductors — within the monolithic LTCC structure: and the fact that the LTCC interconnect system provides not only the interchip connection but also the package itself for the components, that is, the LTCC does not have to be placed in a further level of packaging before use. In this paper, the flexibility of design achievable with this company's A6 tape system including integratable passive components is discussed. Design rules that should be observed with the system to ensure that maximum benefit can be obtained from the key performance characteristics of the LTCC materials are addressed. Data supporting these design considerations are presented, as is a review of production processing parameters and their effect on yield, performance and cost of modules produced using the system. Specific project examples are reviewed to demonstrate the applications of this technology in advanced packaging design.
Effect of Thick Film Dielectric Overlays on the Characteristics of a 3 db Branch Line Microstrip Directional Coupler
Authors: Puri V.
Published: February 2008

This paper reports the preliminary investigations on the effect of Bi2O3, Al2O3 and MgF2 thick film overlays on a symmetrical branch line microstrip directional coupler with a 3 db power split at 9.0 GHz. The changes in isolation and coupling with overlay thickness varying from 200 µm to 3000 µm were studied. It was observed that, for an overlay thickness of 200 µm to 600 µm, there was a 900 MHz bandwidth broadening with 3 db power split irrespective of the overlay material. The isolation also increased. Above 700 µm thickness an oscillatory behaviour was observed in the coupled ports with a decrease in coupling after about 10.5 GHz. The isolation characteristic of the 3 db directional coupler showed dependence on thickness as well as permittivity. It is felt that, with a suitable choice of dielectric material of appropriate thickness, an improved broadband coupling and high isolation may be realised by a simple overlay technique.
Application of Diamond in Power Device Modules
Authors: Fiegl B. , Hibler M. , Kiffe W. , Koch F. , Kuhnert R. , Messer R. , Schwarzbauer H.
Published: February 2008

Module technology has become the most successful technology for power devices. The sandwich structure of the module serves as both an electrical insulator and heat sink to remove the heat generated in the device. Typical heat fluxes of 200 W/cm2 through the chip substrate interface make it necessary to develop modules with a lower thermal resistance than those available today. With the recent advances in diamond technology, diamond substrates which have unique heat conducting properties are now available. Presented here are the first applications of diamond films in power device modules in combination with a new joining technology. The thermal behaviour of these modules has been simulated. Following the simulations, power device modules with a diamond film were produced. Investigations with a scanning acoustic microscope showed that there is good mechanical contact between the diamond and the adjacent layers. The thermal resistance of the modules was measured. The results are in good agreement with those of the simulations. They show that the application of diamond films in power modules for heat conduction and heat spreading is feasible. It is demonstrated that diamond films together with an advanced joining technology provide a considerable improvement in thermal management compared with state‐of‐the‐art technologies.
Low‐cost Integrated Silicon Sensors for Industrial Applications
Authors: Rahali F. , Ansermet S. , Ardalan J. , Otter D.
Published: February 2008

Silicon sensors are semiconductor devices which transform a physical effect (such as pressure, acceleration, flux) into electrical effects (resistance, capacitance variation). Fabrication of these silicon sensors requires very precise control of the silicon micromachining. Some silicon foundries have adapted their experience in integrated circuit manufacturing to silicon sensor production and thus have reduced the costs and dimensions of the silicon sensors. Standard thick film technology has brought versatility to silicon sensor technology. Silicon sensors mounted on a ceramic substrate give fast development, high performance and low cost to OEMs. An alternative solution is the integrated silicon sensor including sensor and circuitry on the same silicon chip. This has been developed for specific applications.
Foil‐clips for Power Module Interconnects
Authors: Krokoszinski H.‐J. , Esrom H.
Published: February 2008

A novel technology for the interconnection of bare chips in power modules is presented which circumvents the drawbacks of multiple heavy‐wire bonding as well as of reflow soldering of many single copper clips inserted into solder preforms. A piece of structured copper‐clad polyimide foil, here called a foil‐clip, is used to provide all required connections, i.e., die‐to‐die and die‐to‐substrate. Hot‐bar soldering or glueing is used for the final joining after adjustment of the foil‐clip to its land areas. Depending on the complexity of the module only a few touch‐downs of the heated tool are required for full assembly. In contrast to the well‐known TAB technique, in foil‐clip technology a copper layer is the top layer (typical thickness: 60 µm). The polyimide (PI) foil (e.g., 25 µm) is used simultaneously as insulation and solder stop layer on the die side. The contact of the photo‐lithographically patterned copper layer with the pads on top of the die and the substrate is achieved by grooving holes into the PI layer which are then filled in a subsequent step with solder or screen‐printed conductive adhesive. Via‐hole formation is achieved by light‐induced ablation. In the first stage of process development a scanning line beam of a pulsed UV excimer laser is moved across the surface of a metal mask containing the pattern to be eroded in the polyimide layer. The present paper describes the optimisation of process parameters in terms of wavelength, pulse rate and fluence variation as well as speed of the substrate displacement during illumination. In future, the use of a novel UV excimer lamp is envisaged which enables large‐area exposure and selective photoetching by using contact metal masks. Furthermore, measurements of the current load capability of the copper interconnects produced by foil‐clips are presented. With an infrared imaging system, the hot‐spot temperature was determined for increasing load current on tracks of different widths and lengths on their way down from high current rectifier diodes to DCB‐module substrates. It is shown that tracks with many squares (N = length/width => ∞) can be loaded with at least I = 22 A. On the other hand, due to cooling through the solder joints, the shortest tracks (N = 1) carry up to 128 A.
Microelectronics International
Authors: Kurzweil Karel
Published: February 2008

Over a number of years—for some of us for over a decade—we got used to finding Hybrid Circuits at regular intervals on our desk. With this January 1995 issue, the new name of the Journal is Microelectronics International.
Thick Film Technology Applied to Chemical Sensors
Authors: Ménil F. , Lucat C. , Debéda H.
Published: February 2008

The present and potential applications of screen‐printing thick film technology to the field of chemical sensing are briefly reviewed in the first part of the paper. The second part is devoted to the search for new routes to selectivity for basically non‐selective gas sensors.
Photoimageable Thick Films for Multichip Modules
Authors: Vrana M. , Van Calster A. , Vanicky D. , Delbare W. , Vanden Berghe R. , Demolder S. , Allaert K.
Published: February 2008

The evolution of today's high speed electronic systems has resulted in the need for modules which are able to provide all chip‐to‐chip interconnection with very fine top level and buried conductor traces, and a dielectric with a very dense via grid pattern. As standard thick film technology is capable of pitches only down to 250 µm, new photoimageable thick film pastes have been developed in order to achieve a higher resolution. These materials allow one to combine the advantages of screen printing as a deposition technique with photolithography for the patterning. The image is produced by exposing the printed paste through a photomask to define either lines or vias, so that a very high resolution (50 (µm pitch), similar to that available in MCM‐D or MCM‐L, can be achieved. This paper describes the processing of the photoimageable dielectric and conductor pastes. As an example of the capability of this technology, a module for electro‐optical interconnection is presented.
Resist Coating of Cylindrical Samples for 3‐D Lithography
Authors: Giaconia C.G. , Grasso G. , Arnone C.
Published: February 2008

A quantitative investigation of a dipping technique for depositing a thin layer of resist on circularly symmetrical objects is presented. The results obtained are valuable for preparing three‐dimensional (3‐D) surfaces suited for spatial microlithographic processes in the 1 to 10 µm linewidth range.
The Characterisation of High Frequency Planar Thick‐film Transformers
Authors: Cornwell A.R.
Published: February 2008

The results of an empirical investigation into the design and fabrication of high frequency planar thick‐film transformers for use in resonant mode power supplies are reported. A 50 W planar transformer design which realises efficiencies in excess of 90% is presented. The findings are used in order to establish an understanding between winding topologies and dimensions and the physical planar transformer parameters.
Semiconductor Diode Lasers for Soldering
Authors: Whitehead D.G. , Polijanczuk A.V. , Beckett P.M.
Published: February 2008

The application of laser technology has recently become economically viable for microelectronics and surface mount technology. Semiconductor laser technology may prove to be the only technology capable of solving the assembly problems that will accompany further advances in microelectronics. Some characteristics of Nd‐YAG and CO2 lasers are compared with the performance of semiconductor diode lasers for soldering purposes. The early stages of evaluation of semiconductor diode lasers in an experimental soldering station at the University of Hull suggest that these lasers serve as an efficient selective, controllable and compact high power density heating source capable of meeting present and future microelectronics soldering requirements.
Influence of Composition and Construction Parameters on the Basic Properties of Thick Film Thermistors
Authors: Golonka L. , Kozlowski J. , Licznerski B.W. , Nitsch K. , Seweryn A.
Published: February 2008

This paper presents experimental data associated with the properties of thick film thermistors based on a spinel‐type semiconducting oxide/RuO2/glass system. The following parameters—sheet resistivity, thermistor (B) and thermal time (?) constants—have been measured, all as functions of different composition and construction variants. The thermistor properties are independent of configuration and are mainly determined by the semiconducting oxide particle chains. The correlation between B and ? for the compositions considered has been observed.
Assessment of Temperature Distributions in Electronic Circuits
Authors: Page G. , Campbell D.S.
Published: February 2008

A study has been undertaken into the use of thermal imaging techniques to determine the temperature distribution of electronic equipment. The suitability of such techniques was investigated to determine the level of confidence that could be established with regard to temperature readings obtained. The study consisted of the comparison of temperatures measured directly using fine wire thermocouples with those obtained from a thermal imaging system. Results showed that surface emissivity was a crucial factor in the determination of accurate temperatures by imaging techniques. However, by coating areas to be studied with a light deposit of aluminium chlorohydrate, a constant highly emissive surface could be obtained. This permitted temperature measurements to be made with an accuracy to within <±1 °C over the temperature range 30° to 90°C. The thermal imaging system was used to study the effect of component colour and of component density on temperature distribution. It was found, with respect to the component spacing, that the maximum component temperature was critically related to the spacing between the devices.
Design of Integrated Circuit Planar Resistors with Slits and Curved Boundaries
Authors: Chaudhry M.A.
Published: February 2008

The problem of determining the shape of a polygonal integrated circuit planar resistor to a desired value of resistance has applications in the IC fabrication technology. The resistor design problem can be simplified for modular applications and fabrication by changing only one parameter of the polygon, e.g., length of a slit, to achieve the desired value of resistance. This paper describes a method of numerical conformal mapping to compute the length of the slit to obtain the desired value of resistance when the shape of the polygon is given. The extended Schwarz‐Christoffel transformation developed by the author and others is used when polygons with curved segments are encountered. The resulting algorithm is easily programmable and accurate. Rapid convergence is achieved. Examples are given and other applications of the method are presented.
A Comparison of the Thermal Performance of Low Cost Substrates for Power Electronics
Authors: Tidswell R.D.
Published: February 2008

The continuing trend towards increasingly compact circuitry places rigorous demands on the thermal management of electronic assemblies. The problem is particularly severe in power circuitry with integrated control. A number of advanced cooling mechanisms and packaging methods are available, but for consumer products the cost of these solutions is prohibitive. Traditionally, thermal management has been achieved by the attachment of large metal heatsinks, but this introduces further manufacturing processes during assembly. It is demonstrated that efficient heatsinking can conveniently be achieved through the substrate, due to both improvements in, and shortening of, the conduction paths. When used as the final level of packaging in a hybrid assembly, coated steel substrates offer an improvement in thermal performance, in comparison with alumina. The optimum thermal performance is, however, provided by polymer coated aluminium substrate materials.
High Technology in the Nordic Area
Authors: Collander P.
Published: February 2008

The Nordic countries have not escaped the effects of the economic recession currently experienced by much of Europe as well as other industrialised continents. In the high technology electronics area, the opportunity is being seized by many Nordic companies to use this time to combine know‐how, consolidate existing expertise and concentrate efforts on developing advanced production techniques. Such an approach can help to ensure competitiveness in leading edge technologies.
Library Automation in Norway — some main projects
Authors: Sølvberg Ingeborg
Published: February 2008

Most librarians associate the phrase ‘library automation’ with a computerised system to be used as a tool in the daily work within a library. Because data processing and telecommunication are being more commonly used for collection, storage and distribution of published information, the meaning of the phrase ‘library automation’ will have to change.
The use of microcomputers for information retrieval
Authors: Scharff L. , Mahon B. , Thomas J.R.
Published: February 2008

A detailed description of the hardware and software used by the Euronet‐Diane Launch Team for automating a number of functions associated with online searching is described. Although certain facilities described are specific to Launch Team requirements, the general structure of the programming is common to all such applications. A number of comments are made on the lessons learned and suggestions for avoiding difficulties with this type of development are given.
Information Technology and the Library
Authors: Raitt D.
Published: February 2008

The paper first gives an overview of recent developments in the field of telecommunications, in particular the potential of the newer transmission media and the types of equipment becoming available. Services which can be offered over these systems to society on a whole such as telebanking, teleshopping, videotex, remote metering are then described. The ways in which libraries and information centres might avail themselves of the opportunities presented by these systems and services are considered together with reasons why they should. Problem areas are briefly outlined and finally the impact that such services could have on society is discussed.
Microcomputers for information storage and retrieval
Authors: Kanters Ben
Published: February 2008

Information storage and retrieval (ISR) is a concept associated with large quantities of information stored in relatively sizable (and therefore, costly) computers and which requires relatively extensive software to accommodate the whole process. Generally, the connection between software and hardware is extremely strong; i.e., a particular Information Storage and Retrieval package can only be used on the computer for which it was written. This is the case, for example, with IBM's ‘Stairs’, Siemens’ ‘Golem’ and Univac's ‘Unidas’ package.
Selecting and implementing a word processor in the library
Authors: Hendrickson Nash Sarah
Published: February 2008

The ability of word processors to manipulate text quickly and accurately makes them ideal technical processing tools for small libraries without access to more sophisticated automated library systems. The author focuses on her experiences in selecting and implementing a word processor in the Institute for Defense Analyses' library. The section on selection emphasizes the importance of assessing the library's needs and translating these needs into word processing functions. The next step is to select a specific system by comparing and contrasting the system functions, documentation, and vendor reputation for service and support of various word processors. In order to sell the idea to management, a recommendation and justification statement will need to be prepared, showing cost savings and other benefits to be accrued from a word processor. Developing and documenting procedures, setting priorities for implementing applications, developing a timeline for implementation, training, scheduling and reporting should all be part of an implementation plan. The author demonstrates how a word processor can be used for producing catalog cards, monthly accessions bulletins, mailing labels and receipts, journal holdings and journal subscription listings and print publications. Problems encountered in the selection and implementation process are discussed and possible solutions offered.
Microcomputer software for libraries: a survey
Authors: Nolan Jeanne M.
Published: February 2008

In response to the numerous inquiries about the availability of microcomputer software for libraries, Nolan Information Management Services decided to approach the problem systematically by searching the library and computer literature for reviews and articles about software that could be of use to library and information management professionals. After compiling this information, Nolan Information Management Services decided to publish the results in an annual publication entitled, the Micro software report.
Management problems arising from the introduction of automation
Authors: Francis Simon
Published: February 2008

These jottings are prompted by the implementation, in the Polytechnic of North London's Library Service, of the BLCMP online circulation system CIRCO. The Polytechnic joined the BLCMP co‐operative in 1976 and began to take the batch cataloguing system. Some years later the online system BOSS became available, and since then the vast majority of our cataloguing has been undertaken online at the system centre in Birmingham.
Problems and challenges of downloading for database producers
Authors: Jansen Arnold A.J.
Published: February 2008

The increased use of micro‐ and mini‐computers by online searchers creates new problems and challenges for database producers and vendors. Downloading is technically a violation of the copyright of the database producer. In order to prevent producers from being confronted with abuses of their databases, they have to set guidelines. End‐users have to be accommodated by making special arrangements. Downloading is also a form of bulk sales. Pricing should therefore be based on this idea. However, many pricing schedules of database producers do not allow variations. This paper proposes solutions to some of these problems.
Hardware corner
Authors: Falk Howard
Published: February 2008

Micro/personal computer Fujitsu's Micro 16s system is designed around an 8‐bit Z‐80 processor chip and an 8086 16‐bit chip. The 8‐bit chip allows the system to run older programs for micro/personal computers, and the 16‐bit chip gives the system more powerful capabilities. Users are offered the IBM/PC‐compatible MS‐DOS software or Concurrent CP/M, which can handle up to four applications programs at once. Like many of the micro systems from Japan, the 16s does not show any basic new capabilities, but relies on a modest price advantage over the IBM/PC to try to make it's way into the US marketplace. Fujitsu Micro‐electronics, Inc., Santa Clara, CA.
Microcomputers in special libraries: a means to an end?
Authors: Gillman Peter L.
Published: February 2008

The wide availability of relatively cheap computing power has led many librarians and information officers to expect that the procurement of a microcomputer and database software will answer all of their needs for information management and retrieval. They then anticipate that this equipment will also serve all of the administrative needs of the information unit. This simplistic view is seen to ignore many of the hard realities of automation, and neglects the vital need for systems analysis and design. The author examines the ways in which microcomputers are currently used in libraries, and suggests some practical considerations for those about to embark on automation projects.
Hardware corner
Authors: Falk Howard
Published: February 2008

Today, most personal computers are equipped with floppy disk drives, but as needs for information storage on computers grow, ‘hard’ disks having larger capacities become more and more popular. The world population of hard disk units is increasing rapidly. About one and a half million of the 5¼″ size drives are expected to be shipped in 1984, and the pace for smaller, 3½″ units is expected to pass two million per year by 1986.
Users and local area networks: opportunities for information transfer
Authors: Copeland Joyce M. , Flood Stephen
Published: February 2008

This paper describes some of the findings of a research project (October 1983‐October 1985 funded by BLRDD), investigating the applications of local area networks (LANs) in special libraries and information units.
Application of a personal/business computer in library automation. Updating a main‐frame resident authority file
Authors: Steensland M.C. , Spaith T.G.
Published: February 2008

Keeping a library authority file up‐to‐date and therefore authoritative can be a cumbersome task even when the file is maintained in computer‐readable form. When, in addition, it becomes necessary to do massive updating to bring the entire file into conformity with a changed or newly‐adopted standard, the task becomes even more difficult. This paper describes an example of accomplishing such an update on the Chemical Abstracts Service Source Index (CASSI) using a relatively low level of human resources, and computer resources which had been placed in the library mainly for word‐processing. The same strategy was re‐used in a similar update of a related authority file. Perhaps this example will encourage others to undertake similar projects.
Software corner
Authors: Nolan Jeanne
Published: February 2008

So many new microcomputer software products have been released this past year, that it's nearly impossible to keep up, let alone comprehend how these new programs will assist us in our day‐to‐day library/information management operations.
Hardware corner
Authors: Falk Howard
Published: February 2008

Those who have an IBM/PC connected to a telephone line and find they frequently need to talk to the party on the other end, as well as use the keyboard, will appreciate the Asher modem board. It plugs into the computer and provides for a telephone handset that plugs into the board.
Customer orientated technological futures for library systems
Authors: Cannon T.
Published: February 2008

The pace of growth and the scale of change in information technologies has absorbed the interest of increasing numbers of researchers and writers over the last decade. Not surprisingly, their work has focused on developments in hardware or the even more diverse software initiatives. Relatively little attention has been paid to the impact of these innovations on established organisations and the services provided by them to their publics. A similar pattern can be seen in the literature on the influence of new information technologies on library systems notably at the point of interface with their diverse client groups.
Information management
Authors: WILSON T.D.
Published: February 2008

Marc Porat who has devoted a good deal of research to the size and scope of the ‘information sector’ of the US economy, has noted that:
MicroCheck: for catalog conversion and updating
Authors: Allan Ann , Kreychem Michael
Published: February 2008

MicroCheck is provided by the vendor, a company that sells books, library supplies and automated services to libraries, as part of a catalog conversion service that company offers. That is, converting catalog records to machine‐readable form. The vendor maintains computer‐stored cataloging records. During the conversion process these are matched against the customer library's own cataloging records. The price of the conversion process is based on the number of matches anticipated between these two sets of records.
Indix: index‐making for computer‐wise users
Authors: Veanera Allen B. , Klement Susan P.
Published: February 2008

The INDIX package performs some useful functions. It is ideal for any application requiring an exhaustive enumeration, along with location information, of the separate words in a document. It might be used to generate an index for a short simple paper, or for some highly‐formalized document, such as a computer program. It might also have uses for textual criticism of literary works. But it is definitely not the professional indexer's dream of software. The claim that it can be used with “complex books” seems to this reviewer to be a healthy exaggeration. Nor does it seem able to save much indexing time. In fact it is likely to cost many indexers a great deal of time to use this package, since they will probably find they need to compile an extensive list of words that are to be excluded from the index.
Hardware corner
Authors: Falk Howard
Published: February 2008

The Tandy 1000 sells for just $1199 with 128 thousand byte main memory and one disk drive. It can use disks intended for the IBM Personal Computer and will run most of the software packages designed for the IBM machine. Not only is its price over $1000 less than its IBM counterpart; this computer comes with a bundle of free software that includes word‐processing, filing, spreadsheet and communications. What it does not have is the ability to use IBM/PC plug‐in adapter circuits to connect peripheral devices. The Tandy 1000 is available at Radio Shack Computer Centers.
Book review
Authors: Mahon Barry , Noerr Peter , Raitt D. , Collinge Brian
Published: February 2008

Did you know that Unesco produces twenty‐two computerised databases and that thirty‐nine information systems or services are available through FAO? So what, you might say, but it is nonetheless interesting. This directory lists 615 selected information systems, services and databases set up by thirty‐eight United Nations agencies. It contains almost twice as many entries as the previous edition which appeared in 1978.
Consultancy and library automation
Authors: Gillman Peter L.
Published: February 2008

Many clients who seek the assistance of consultants in the field of library and information resources (LIR) begin with the assumption that automation is the desired end of the project, and do not look deeply enough at the operation of the unit in question. Often automation is not the answer, but is being used to conceal organisational defects, or a lack of strategic planning of LIR objectives. This paper will guide the reader towards the effective use of consultancy by outlining the steps which should be taken prior to employing a consultant, and the facts and figures which the client will require in the initial briefing.
Integrating and interfacing library systems
Authors: Boss Richard W.
Published: February 2008

Almost all of the local library systems which were implemented in the past decade have been single‐function systems. The most widely installed have been circulation control systems. Over 900 libraries in North America and approximately 100 throughout the rest of the world have purchased turnkey systems from vendors who supply all hardware, software, installation, training and ongoing hardware/software maintenance. Another 500 or more libraries have written their own software, usually for acquisitions or circulation control. In addition, approximately 150 libraries have purchased software packages from commercial vendors or other libraries. Only a few score have sought to develop, in‐house, systems which ‘integrate’ several functions, though the literature of librarianship has been discussing the ‘integrated’ or ‘total systems approach’ since the 1960s.
A method of making better KWOC indexes
Authors: Elvin P.J.
Published: February 2008

This article describes a method of making a KWOC index from article or document titles by the use of a computer program which allows the indexer to combine words in the title in any way required and also allows the use of words or phrases not in the title. The method can be used to make a KWOC index of titles of articles stored in a database. Examples of the use of the program are included.
Facing the limitations of electronic document handling
Authors: Moralee Dennis
Published: February 2008

The new electronics‐based technologies have proved so effective at automating information handling, in libraries as well as elsewhere, that it often seems difficult to believe that they have any fundamental limitations. Certainly, while the requirement remains that of handling information in traditional ‘computer’ forms, notably those of data and text, the potential of the electronics technologies is indeed almost limitless. But what about more complex forms of information, such as the real‐life documentation that every organisation, and in particular every library, has to handle in very large quantities? Increasingly, it is becoming clear that when it comes to automating the handling of these more complex forms of information, the electronics technologies themselves cannot provide anything like a complete answer.
Hardware corner
Authors: Falk Howard
Published: February 2008

With the help of laser light techniques, photocopy machines have been adapted to computer use. In an ordinary photocopy unit, toner powder or liquid is attracted to a print drum, but the attraction is selective. The toner sticks only to those areas that represent the text or graphical material to be reproduced.
The Microcomputer in the Library: II. Hardware and operating systems
Authors: Leggate Peter , Dyer Hilary
Published: February 2008

The first article in the series (The Electronic Library, 3, 3, July, 1985 pp. 200–209) introduced the reader to microcomputer terminology and to the main components—hardware and software—of a microcomputer system. This second article is largely devoted to more detailed description of the main hardware components: processors, internal memory, buses, external memory, printers and communications hardware. The importance of ergonomic factors in vdu and keyboard design is stressed. Multi‐user and network configurations are compared. Finally, the discussion of the role of the operating system, introduced in the first article, is extended.
Look — no paper! The library of tomorrow
Authors: Raitt D.I.
Published: February 2008

A scenario is given of a possible library of the future. Such a library might have shelves containing talking books, video cassettes, computer programs on floppy disks and the entire contents of Chemical Abstracts and Encyclopaedia Brittanica on biochips. The catalogue of the library stock and the reference books might well be stored on optical disks and viewed on flat screens. Information on the classification scheme and how to use the collection might be provided by listening to tape recordings and voice synthesisers might inform borrowers where to return items. Robots collect these items from dispensers and replace them on the shelves. Each item in the library has a barcode which is scanned by a laser to provide details of loans/returns and patrons. Terminals linked to computers via satellites enable distant files to be searched on demand for information not stored in the library. Most of the journals taken by the library will be in digital form but a touch of a button on the terminal causes the images to be printed out locally. Fact or fiction? The paper goes on to describe some of the equipment that is currently available to them in the future (such as holography, robotics and satellites). Where we are now in terms of technological developments in libraries and information centres is discussed with reference to some actual projects such as Maggie's Place and Dave's Den. Finally, the impact of such futuristic, electronic libraries on the user as well as the librarian is considered.
SIRE: Information storage and searching
Authors: Portoghese Christine P
Published: February 2008

SIRE is an information retrieval package that enables a user to design, build, search and maintain text databases. It is easy to learn and use, and it has many powerful features. As we delved into our study, we began to compare SIRE to driving a car with automatic transmission — that is, all the gears and functions are there, but so much happens without intervention of the driver that it can appear to be less complex than it really is. In some ways SIRE's ease‐of‐use and streamlined features may lead users to be unaware of its power and sophistication; it is well suited for the non‐professional searcher. For anyone wanting to search PC‐based text files, SIRE is a software package they will definitely want to consider.
RightWriter: document analysis
Authors: Bauer Dale L.
Published: February 2008

RightWriter is a very powerful tool for analysis of writing style. It can be a valuable complement to any of the popular personal computer word‐processing or text editing packages. Going beyond simple word and text entry, RightWriter addresses style and context. It can potentially assist users in their writing tasks, and may change the very way that they write.
The “integrated library system”
Authors: Dowlin Kenneth E.
Published: February 2008

This article is concerned with the issue that should be uppermost in the minds of those who are in a position to select the computer system for a library that desires to enter the information age, system architecture and capacity. With ten years' experience as the principal architect for Maggie's Place I feel that I am qualified to give some advice to the library manager who is just entering the wonderful world of automated library systems, or those who entered the fray some time ago by purchasing an early turnkey system that now is demonstrating its limitations.
The microcomputer in the library: III. Information retrieval from external and internal databases
Authors: Leggate Peter , Dyer Hilary
Published: February 2008

Applications software of two types is discussed. First communications, file transfer and search assistance software which enables the microcomputer to be used for intelligent access to external databases. Second, software designed to support database creation and searching on local microcomputers. The facilities which may be offered by each type of software are described with examples of commercial packages.
Public access micros: an overview of options
Authors: Dewey Patrick R.
Published: February 2008

Public programming in a public library is, by and large, a creative endeavour. By talking with the public, by being a part of the community, using past experience and analyzing data from previous programs, and through plain old‐fashioned intuition, various programs are tried, projects started and conclusions drawn. A public access microcomputer fits very well into this notion, but goes one step further: a micro project never ‘ends’ in the same way that a series of movies, seminars, a book talk, or a lecture end; it is an ongoing, changing, and active program.
Library venturing
Authors: Donald Wilson H.
Published: February 2008

Today, entrepreneurs are “predicting our future by inventing it”. This phenomenon is in response to the rapid economic growth and social change brought on by new technology and expanding world markets. Over the next fifty years, Americans may contemplate annual per capita income raising five to tenfold from the present $12,000 which our industrial society produces. The service economy will become more and more a knowledge or information economy. All institutions, public, private, for‐profit and not‐for‐profit, are changing or being changed. The economic value of knowledge is just being recognized. Libraries, as collections of books, are becoming value‐added information and knowledge centers. The present library world is confused by the apparent conflict between serving traditional scholastic and emerging business needs. There is great opportunity for service and profit to the imaginative library that organizes to provide the new forms of knowledge now available or being developed. Library systems need leaders with vision and the ability to negotiate major change — not administrators. Librarians as entrepreneurs must learn business. This includes venture management and finance. Available assistance includes: growing intrapreneurial understanding in large institutions; family and friends; ample private wealth seeking investment; new business incubators — many university sponsored; a maturing, amply funded venture capital industry; and rapidly spreading local ‘venture clubs’ organizing community resources for entrepreneurs.
F.I.L.L.S. 2.0: Improved for interlibrary loans
Authors: Anne Brooks Jo
Published: February 2008

When the original version of F.I.L.L.S. was reviewed, it was recommended as a useful piece of software for small libraries that have a fair amount of interlibrary loan (ILL) activity. The new version, F.I.L.L.S. 2.0 will be even more useful.
The microcomputer in the library: IV. Cataloguing and acquisitions software
Authors: Leggate Peter , Dyer Hilary
Published: February 2008

The bibliographic record is the link between the software packages discussed in this article: cataloguing and acquisitions. Cataloguing software ranges from sophisticated online public access catalogues to cheaper and simpler software designed to produce catalogue entries for an existing manual system (e.g. cards). The range of acquisitions software is equally wide encompassing packages which simply print an order from data which is keyed in to those which incorporate the whole process of acquisitions from the recommendation stage through to receipt and full fund accounting. This article, the fourth in the series, describes the different features with examples, and concludes with a discussion on the nature of integrated systems.
Video discs in libraries
Authors: Barker Philip
Published: February 2008

In the context of information storage and sharing new electronic technology has much to offer conventional library systems. A video disc can be a valuable storage component. However, its full potential is unlikely to be realised if it is used in isolation from other equipment. Computers, communication networks and video discs can together provide many novel information storage and dissemination systems for use in libraries. This paper describes some of these and also gives a brief outline of some approaches to providing the all important user interface to such systems.
Hardware corner
Authors: Falk Howard
Published: February 2008

In most microcomputer systems, the printing workhorse is a dot matrix unit, an inexpensive piece of equipment that rapidly churns out characters formed of clusters of tiny dots. Until just a few years ago, dot matrix printers were considered useful only for “draft” copy, internal documents for which crisp typewriter‐style printing was unnecessary. But inventive printer designers found ways of getting printer dots to cluster more tightly together so these matrix printers could produced results that could be called “letter quality”, even though they still fell a bit short of the quality produced by the familiar office typewriter.
The microcomputer in the library: V. Circulation control and serials control
Authors: Leggate Peter , Dyer Hilary
Published: February 2008

The article discusses the use of microcomputers for the automation of the two remaining major library functions: circulation control and serials control. Both are concerned with controlling the movement of stock and both require software which can perform several different types of operation including the creation of printed outputs and financial control. Circulation control is about the issuing, returning and reserving of stock, and the pursuit of overdue items. It is also an especially rich source of management information. Serials control is primarily concerned with the registration of individual issues as they arrive and the claiming of missing ones. Subsidiary functions are ordering, binding control, circulation to readers, searching and financial management.
Small is not necessarily beautiful — or is it? The case for microcomputers
Authors: Raitt David I.
Published: February 2008

Good morning ladies and gentlemen. My brief is to argue the case for microcomputers. I suffer the disadvantage of putting my case before you first—but, for many of you, I am sure, there is simply no argument at all — microcomputers are a vital and necessary adjunct to our lives and our work. Thus I am probably primarily addressing the sceptics amongst you, the non‐believers and non‐users. Since there are so many advantages, benefits, features and uses of the micro or personal computer and since I cannot possibly hope to catalogue, document and discuss all these in the brief time allotted me, I have prepared some overhead transparencies which may serve to put them into some logical order for you.
Small is not necessarily beautiful: the case against microcomputers
Authors: Woodward Tony
Published: February 2008

Ladies and gentlemen. Unlike our previous speaker I believe that the subject we are discussing this morning is so important that I intend to be perfectly serious and not attempt to entertain you with spurious humour.
Is small beautiful? Well, yes and no…
Authors: Noerr Kate
Published: February 2008

The dilemma that faces me is that of steering along that notoriously treacherous path, commonly known as the middle‐of‐the‐road, What evil fate has landed me in this role, where I must deliberate on the (no doubt) wise and astute remarks of my yes and no colleagues, all the while making really wise and astute remarks on micros? No doubt it is the same fate that cancels my hotel booking, overbooks my flight, and loses my post. But on the other hand, why not me? After all, in real life, I run a microcomputer software company, so small must be absolutely beautiful (assuming we are successful of course), but on the other hand, I don't have much use for microcomputers. Nor for larger computers either, but that's another matter.