Harwell Automated Loans System—HAL, using STATUS

Abstract

The paper describes the transfer from an early, batch‐process, custom‐designed, automated library loans system using teletypewriters and paper tape input; to a modern loans system based on the STATUS package. HAL is also a batch‐process system but has some on‐line facilities. It uses a microprocessor, two VDUs and a Decwriter. Reasons for the change; system design and implementation; the difficulties encountered; an outline of the cost; and the advantages are described. The paper concludes with a brief, technical description of HAL software (Appendix A); and examples of screen prompts and print‐out (Appendix B).