Snippets from Previous Meetings
Allan Rutherford and Mactropolis
Allan Rutherford President of the Christchurch-based Apple Users Group of Canterbury gave an outline of the installation, operation and uses of the Mactropolis bulletin board.
MACTROPOLIS
The Christchurch-based Bulletin Board for Macintosh Users
A summary of the main points made by Allan Rutherford (President, Apple Users Group of Canterbury) in his presentation to the AMUG meeting, January 2001.
- MACTROPOLIS is basically a bulletin board, and consists of a server which holds files which can only be accessed by subscribers. Mactropolis offers a mail facility, and also allows 2-way communication (chat sessions).
- MACTROPOLIS will work on any Macintosh computer which can be connected to the Internet.
- Mactropolis is accessed through a browser called FIRST CLASS. This browser must be loaded onto the computer being used, and can be downloaded free from www.softarc.com
- When joining Mactropolis, each user needs an ACCOUNT set up so that they will be recognised by the server - this is done by Allan, who is one of the administrators of the server.
- On connecting, the DESKTOP window should appear, looking something like this:
- AMUG subscribers have access to all folders except the Aoraki Committee Folder (only committee members can open this).
Opening the AORAKI MAC USERS NEWS folder shows this window, which gives access to AMUG, AUGC and other Mactropolis files: Flags denote unread messages or folders.
- The AUGC SOFTWARE FOLDER gives access to a variety of application files which have been saved on the Mactropolis server. These may be downloaded more securely than from the net, and if a connection is broken while downloading, the file will recommence loading on reconnection. (A useful application available is ICWord, which enables access to Microsoft Word docs.)
- MESSAGES can be written to any folder by opening it, selecting New Message (from screen-top MESSAGE menu), typing the message and clicking on the Send icon.
- Clicking on HISTORY after selecting a message shows what has happened to it (when it was sent, and who has read it)... particularly useful for Buy/Sell/Exchange messages.
- MEMBERS gives a list of all current Mactropolis members. Clicking on a memberŐs name shows (if available) a RESUME for the member.
- In the CONFERENCE menu, selecting WHO'S ON LINE? shows a list of who is currently connected. Selecting a name enables you to INVITE the member to a PRIVATE CHAT session. Names appearing in ITALICS denote that a member is online, but does not wish to chat.
Sheryl had several items available, including the Putt-Putt collection, and a variety of Dorking Kindersley products.
MACINTOSH BOOKS
Barry introduced several books which are particularly helpful to Macusers. These are available from the Timaru Public Library (code 165), and include: 'iMacs for Dummies' & 'Macintosh in 24 Hours' (useful tutorials) 'iMac in 24 Hours' (useful for troubleshooting)
NEW PRODUCTS
Sheryl outlined several new Apple products:
- PowerMac G4 730mHz processor, which includes iTunes music software
- Titanium: the new G4 500mHz metallic-finish laptop, which has a 15" screen and slot-loading CD drive.... very nice!!
CALENDARS
Sheryl and Joe displayed the impressive personalised calendars (incorporating family photos) which they had recently made. Sheryl made hers using Claris Organiser, and Joe's were made using Freehand software.
SCREENSAVERS
The After Dark screensaver (with its impressive variety of patterns and graphics, including the famous Flying Toaster!) was demonstrated.
Kerry Woods brought along her, 'glow in the dark lime green, iBook'.
