New DataGrabber Automates The Output of Computer Reports to CD-ROM,
Replacing Microfiche, Paper & COLD

New York City (April 19, 1994) -- IMR introduces DataGrabber, the PC
software application that takes COM or print files generated from any
computer database and extracts specified data through its automated
parser, enabling direct import into an Alchemy CD-ROM database. Once in
Alchemy, the data can then be indexed and copied to a recordable CD with
either an MS DOS or MS Windows retrieval engine. The CD can be distributed
royalty-free throughout the enterprise, replacing reams of paper, miles of
microform, or expensive laser optical discs.

"Mainframes, minicomputers and PCs produce a very high volume of report
files that have typically been output to paper, microfiche, or laser
disc," said Robert Drucker, CEO of IMR. "With CD recorders under $4,000
and a 650MB blank CD selling for under $20, CD-ROMs are now an affordable
alternative, and we realized that there was no automated application for
computer report extraction to a CD-recordable format. DataGrabber is
intended to provide that capability to the IS/IT department, enabling
businesses to control their own report output on CD-ROM from 'cradle to
grave'."

The Technology -- The beginning point is the production of a standard
source electronic COM or print file, normally output from a database
inquiry. Mainframe and minicomputer files are downloaded to a PC, where
DataGrabber performs two operations. First, designated values are
extracted from each logical record and placed in user-definable profile
fields (the method used by Alchemy for indexing and retrieval). The
extraction of data is accomplished by determining the location within the
record by either byte offset or by identifying field labels. Second, the
file is broken at designated points, creating a physical record and
attaching the record to a profile. Once these operations are complete, an
Alchemy database is created and can be searched by any of the profile
fields. This database is then recorded to a CD-ROM using any ISO 9660 CD
recorder.

Improves Upon Existing Solutions -- Before DataGrabber, users had to pay
hefty charges for data conversion services by a third party or attempt to
manually "massage" the data by writing a program. Now, users can
vertically integrate the entire process, from data extraction of the
report files to search & retrieval of the finished CD. Unlike some
template or overlay programs with rigid conventions, DataGrabber is
flexible enough to handle variations within a report. Storing reports on a
CD will yield dramatic search efficiencies for end users, when compared to
paper and microfiche. Compared to COLD (Computer Output to Laser Disc),
CDs do not require an investment in costly, proprietary hardware and are
readable on any CD-ROM drive.

Availability -- DataGrabber is available immediately from IMR, with a
suggested retail price of $3,995. IMR also develops and markets the
Alchemy software for CD recording. A total, integrated software solution
for computer output to CD starts at under $5 ,000 for business end users.
A professional version is also available for service bureaus.

Information Management Research Inc
5660 Greenwood Plaza Blvd, Ste 210
Englewood, CO 80111
303-689-0022,  fax 303-689-0055

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