Harvard has stepped up its move into the computer age with the recent installation of com-operated word processors in several Houses.

For a fee, students will now be able to type term-papers and other opuses on the ten processors installed over spring break in Mather, Curner, and Leverett Houses and the Freshman Union.

"This is just one step in a larger program to bring more computer facilities to the students," Harvard's associate vice-president for information services and technology, Howard L. Resnikoff, said yesterday.

Harvard is said to be behind other colleges and universities in utilizing computer technology for a wide range of educational purposes.

Donation

The Digital Equipment Company donated the word processors with the hope that Harvard will buy more to expand the program in the future. College officials have said the company is interested in finding out how extensively students will utilize the machines.

Officials expect 20 more Digital machines to be placed around campus by the fall. They said that the project is an experiment and that they would decide if they wanted more processors later.

Future Plans

Future plans for the machines will depend on "the amount of use, how they stand up physically, and the amount of vandalism." Associate Dean of the College Martha C. Gefter said.

She added that the machines were installed where they are primarily because those places needed the least amount of physical preparation.

Depending on how this whole operation is received, we may eventually order more word processors and experiment with additional projects such as personal computers," Mark Van Baalen, an official in Resnikoff's office said.

In addition to allowing students to write and correct on video screens, the word processors will be able to perform list processing, sorting, and mathematical functions.

Students will be able to use the machines 24 hours a day with tokens purchased at the Science Center stock room. The "coin-op" units can be operated free this week, and afterwards will be available for a fee of $3.00 an hour if tokens are used, or $4.00, if coins are used.

Locations

The word processors are located in the computer rooms of the three Houses and are currently in operation.

While the machines have been delivered to the Freshman Union they are not yet fully operational.

Officials explained that they were unsure where the machines will be placed, but expect the full installment to occur within the next few days.