Dialog eLinks
Frequently Asked Questions

What are Dialog eLinks?

eLinks provide a seamless hyperlink from an abstract record on DataStarWeb or DataStarClassic Web bibliographic databases through to the fulltext electronic record residing on the Web site of a partner publisher or journal aggregator. This provides a faster alternative to ordering the fulltext record from a document delivery service.

Take a Quick Tour or view the eLinks Manager Tutorial to see how the subscription manager works.

What does the fulltext record include?

That depends on the record. You will always be able to view fulltext. However, if the record on the partner's site includes diagrams, images or photographs these too will be included.

Do eLinks exist in all DataStar databases?

No. eLinks are designed for use with those databases that provide abstract records (i.e., bibliographic databases). Other databases, such as Global Reporter (REPO), already provide fulltext records and so have no need for eLinks.

Are there particular subject areas covered by bibliographic databases?

Bibliographic databases on DataStar tend to cover pharmaceutical, scientific and technical subjects. Examples include MEDLINE, EMBASE and Inspec.

How many bibliographic databases are affected?

The number of these databases containing links depends on how many contain records from journals offered by partner publishers or aggregators. We can create links to as many databases as necessary. As the number and range of partners increases, so the number of bibliographic databases with links will also increase.

Who are the partner publishers and aggregators?

Partners are made up of leading journal publishers and aggregators who already provide fulltext electronic journals on the Web to subscribers. The number of partners is growing month-by-month.

Will I be told when new partners become available?

To see the complete list of publishers visit the eLinks website where the publisher list constantly updates. Here you can search for journal titles and by issn numbers for particular publications that carry eLinks.

Do I need to subscribe to journals from partners before using eLinks?

Yes. Once you acquire subscriptions to eJournal publications you can fill out the sign-up form to have your DataStar account enabled for eLinks and begin setting up your subscriptions with our subscription manager. eLinks are usually password protected meaning that you'll need to know your password before viewing the fulltext article.

Will I be able to use pay-per-view?

This depends on the partner you use. Some customers have partnered with services such as Science Direct, SwetsWise, Infotrieve, ingenta, and Highwire, which offer pay-per-view services. The customer sets up a relationship with their preferred partner, as a distinct agreement from their Dialog service, then enters the corresponding information in the eLinks Manager. The partner can then provide links and procure articles outside the traditional annual eJournal subscription model.

How do I check my existing subscriptions or start a new one?

Simply get in touch with the publisher or aggregator (DataStar has no involvement).

Will eLinks appear automatically on DataStarWeb or DataStarClassic Web?

No. To enable your account to for eLinking, complete this form.

Once customized will I see links to all partners' Web sites or just my selected ones?

Just your selected partners. The link will appear as a logo at the top of the abstract record that you have retrieved in a search. Clicking on the logo opens the relevant fulltext Web page on the partner's site in a second browser window.

Are eLinks available on all DataStar platforms?

Yes. eLinks appear on both DataStarWeb and DataStarClassic.

In what format does the eLinks record appear?

In most cases it will be a PDF, although occasionally in HTML. By clicking on the relevant partner's logo, you will open up a new browser window displaying a page on the partner's site.

What's a PDF?

PDF stands for Portable Document Format, developed by Adobe®. PDF has the advantage of offering diagrams, images and photographs in addition to fulltext. To view a PDF record you will first need to download the free Acrobat Reader®.

What are the costs for using eLinks?

Using eLinks is free of charge.

Do eLinks require Java script?

Ideally yes. Without Java script the new window displaying the publisher's Web site will open up behind the DataStarWeb or DataStarClassic Web window. This will then have to be maximized to view it.

Do eLinks work with Alerts?

Yes.

Are document delivery services still available for journals where links exist?

Yes. The full range of document delivery services from Infotrieve and others remain available for all documents.

What should I do next?

Simply contact us. We will be happy to answer any additional questions you may have.