1.  Letter from the Director
 
 
 
August 24, 1994
 
 
Dear Fellow Access Account Holder,
 
Welcome to an exciting new era in communication and information! The
services described in this guide represent a shift from central time-
sharing computing on huge mainframes to powerful and easy-to-use
software running on desktop computers. Personally, I would never want
to go back to mainframe time-sharing just as I wouldn't want to go
back to punch cards.
 
With the Access Account, we can deliver more services to more people
at lower cost to the University. More important to you, the software
is easier to use so you can benefit more readily. The focus is not on
technology but on helping you to accomplish new things using new and
powerful tools and services.
 
The tools and services presented in this publication give you full
access to the Penn State network and the Internet--the fledgling
"Information Highway" we read so much about.  While this is just the
beginning, many Penn Staters are already reaping benefits from
electronic mail, conferencing systems, remote databases, libraries
outside Penn State, and many other forms of electronic information and
communication. Students and faculty in virtually every discipline are
Access Account holders.
 
While having fun learning new things, participating in conferences,
and sending electronic mail, you must remember to use these services
responsibly. In face to face conversations, irrelevant characteristics
such as age, gender, and status are responsible for much of the
impression you make. With electronic communication, these largely
irrelevant attributes are unimportant. However, just as in face to
face conversation, we should use common sense and courtesy when
communicating with others. Avoid flaming--hasty, poorly written, angry
responses. Others' impressions of you will come directly from the
quality of ideas you present and how you present them. Also, please do
not share your ID and password with others so that they can use your
account as well. You may regret the unflattering impression formed and
you are accountable for its use. Let them get their own account just
as you have done.
 
There is much more to come. We are on the threshold of a new era in
personal communications and information access. The changes we will
see in the next few years will open many opportunities to do things
that were impossible only a few years ago. We will be working hard to
keep you from being overwhelmed by continually enhancing our services
and finding the best tools for you to use. Don't wait. The future is
now, and you can connect with it.
 
Russell S. Vaught
 
Director