CompuServe Messages

Here are some CD-ROM applications that communicate directly with the CD-ROM device driver: Medline and a wide variety of other applications from Compact Cambridge, Scientific American Consult, Bowkers Books In Print, Books Out of Print, National Standards Association PartsMaster, SpecMaster, Cahners Computer Aided Parts Selection (CAPS). These apps do not require the Microsoft Extensions to be loaded. Other apps, like the Grolier Electronic Encyclopedia can communicate either through a device driver OR directly to a drive letter. Many applications that take advantage of the mass storage capabilities of CD-ROM for imaging purposes run into the 'drive letter barrier' at 8-10 CD-ROMs. That sounds like a lot, but I ma aware of many imaging applications that use 10s-100's of CDs. Imaging and CD-ROM are a natural match and will continue to rise in popularity. The other category of applications that communicate directly with the Microsoft Extentions do so to automatically 'sniff' out what drive letter is being used. This is usually done to reduce the requirement that applications be installed/configured for individual workstations with varying drive letter availability. The Moody's Company Data CD is an example of such an application. Other applications are designed primarily for standalone use with red-book audio, but work in network situations (although without audio). These apps generally refuse to load unless the Extensions are present. I suggest that you look into your corporate future and try to decide whether imaging applications, in particular, will be required. Chris Magyar Online Computer Systems