[Contents]

Purpose of This Bulletin[5]
What a Computer Can Do for You[5]
Recordkeeping[6]
Farm Management Analysis[6]
Process Controllers[6]
Telecommunications[7]
Other Uses[7]
Computers on the Farm[7]
How to Choose a Microcomputer System[8]
Strategies for Getting into Computers[9]
Alternatives to Buying a Microcomputer[10]
Information Available from Your County Extension Agent[10]
How to Select Software[11]
Checklist for Evaluating Software[11]
Where to Look for Good Software[13]
Compatibility Counts[13]
How to Select Hardware[14]
Checklist for Evaluating Hardware[14]
Where to Look for Good Hardware[16]
Types of Hardware[16]
Components of a Microcomputer[17]
Try It Out[18]
Computers Need an Investment of Time and Money[19]
Information Available Online from USDA, State, and Private Sources[20]
Other Computer Development at USDA[30]
Learning More about Computers on the Farm[32]
Glossary of Computer Terms[34]

Computers on the Farm

by Deborah Takiff Smith

[Purpose of This Bulletin]

How can a computer help you operate your farm better?

How do you select useful computer programs (software) and equipment (hardware)?