In order to conduct meaningful experiments, a small- scale experimental total computer-based library, system is being designed and constructed at M.I.T., 2 with the augmented-catalog display console discussed here being a part of this system. Several considerations have lead to the decision to construct the experimental console at M.I.T. as opposed to purchasing a commercial con- sole that almost satisfies the needs of the c,periments. First, there is no commercially-available console in which the "almost" is close enough to the requirements of the experiments. Second, these experiments are designed to identify the functional characteristics of a console system ideally suited for a computer-based aug- mented catalog. During the course of these experiments the console and its system are expected to experience modifications which can be more easily performed on locally-designed and constructed equipment. Third, an objective of Project Intrex is to develop competence in the field of information-transfer engineering at M.I.T.
The plan of this paper is to first discuss the require- ments of the display console and then to describe the display-console system that is being constructed to satisfy these requirements.