An Introduction to Computer Searching of
Chemical Abstracts
STN International Version

Appendix B: Start-Up Requirements

1. A microcomputer, including printer.
2. Access to telecommunications.

   The computer most be connected to a phone line via a modem or network with external communications capability. The modem or network communications link translates the electronic data from the telecommunications format into the computer and vice versa.

3. Terminal emulation software.

   Terminal emulations software is available for both IBM compatible terminals and Macintosh. IBM-compatible software includes, for example: Crosstalk, Procomm, DIALOGLink, STN Express. Macintosh software includes, for example: Red Ryder, White Knight, Versaterm-Pro, STN Express.

4. An account with online service(s).

   An account must be established with each online service to obtain a password and receive documentation about searching on the service and searching databases available on the service.

5. Documentation
   • Documentation from each online service is necessary to use the search protocols unique to that service.
   • Database documentation defines and describes how to search databases available from that service. Note: searching of a database, e.g. Chemical Abstracts, varies somewhat depending on which online service you are.

© 1993 Education Committee, Division of Chemical Information, American Chemical Society