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09
Oct
2008
Using SFX
- What is SFX? What does it do?
- How do I use it?
- Does SFX work in all of the databases?
- Can I use it off campus?
- Why is there a list of databases in the SFX Services screen?
- The SFX Service menu says there is no full text. Why?
- Sometimes the SFX button only takes me to the journal title page. Why?
- An error message appears from the link. What is wrong?
- Where are the SFX buttons? I can’t see them .
- What is the SFX Services screen? I haven’t seen it.
- I tried to open another database on the same list. I can’t see the new database.
- What is the Article Finder?
What is SFX? What does it do?
SFX is a linking mechanism that connects an article citation or abstract you found within a database to the full text somewhere else – if CSU subscribes to the online journal with the article.
How do I use it?
Just click on the SFX button ( 
) or the ISI Links button ( 
) next to your abstract, or, click on text such as "Check SFX for more information".
Does SFX work in all of the databases?
No, not every database is compatible with the software as yet. The button will not appear in the database you are working in; or the database will not show up on the list of available options if this is the case.
Can I use it off campus?
SFX works for all staff and students who have a current CSU login and password. If you have trouble logging in, please contact the IT Service Desk for assistance.
Why is there a list of databases in the SFX Services screen?
All of the databases on this list have the title that you want. Click on GO for the one that has the date range you need, or if one link fails because the database is down, try another suitable link
The SFX Service menu says there is no full text. Why?
This could mean several things. Either:
- The Library does not have an SFX link to the online subscription.
- There is no online full text for that year of the journal.
- There is no electronic version of the journal at all.
If you can't find an online version of the journal, there may be a print version available in the Library. To check, click the Go button ( 
) on the SFX Services screen, or use the search box below to search the Library's Journal Catalogue.
Journal Catalogue Search
Sometimes the SFX button only takes me to the journal title page. Why?
The database configurations vary; some take you only to the journal title and you must follow up yourself. You can still find the article. On the journal screen, click the year, then the volume & issue, then page number or title of your article.
An error message appears from the link. What is wrong?
The link to the database may have changed.
- Try one of the other links on the list
- OR Go directly into the database from the databases page
- OR send your search and the problem to Ask a Question
Where are the SFX buttons? I can’t see them.
Check your internet option settings and enable JavaScript
What is the SFX Services screen? I haven’t seen it.
Check your internet option settings for a “pop-up blocker’ and disable it.
I tried to open another database on the same list. I can’t see the new database.
The Service screen link opens up a new window. Is it behind the one opened for your first database choice? Try moving or closing the previous windows.
What is the Article Finder?
If you have the exact citation of a specific article (journal title, volume, issue, page ) use Article Finder to enter the details. It will try to link you to the article if CSU has an online subscription.