From: Jim.Redelfs@macnet.omahug.org (Jim Redelfs)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.mac.comm
Subject: RE: Gee, could I get some help?
Date: 27 Jan 93 00:43:12 CST
Reply-To: jim.redelfs@macnet.omahug.org
Organization: Macnet Omaha
Followup-To: comp.sys.mac.comm

> 1. How do I download a file? I thought that I could use the capture
> data function on my CW, but that didn't get all of what I wanted it
> to (I was trying to get all the names of the groups for this, so that
> I could read through them at my leisure. I only got the last screen
> for some reason.) I know that data capture is different from
> downloading a file, but I don't really know what the difference is.

Downloading a file is a mysterious and daunting procedure - to those that have
never done it before.  The best thing to remember is:  If you don't first
succeed, no harm done.  You CAN'T "break" your computer or the distant
system by botching a transfer.  If all else fails, unplug the modem from
the phone jack!  SysOps (System Operators) PREFER that you avoid disconnecting
in such a manner, but virtually all modern systems are quite able to deal
with such disconnects without difficulty.
  
To download a file, you must tell the host (distant) system to SEND the
file then, expeditiously, you must tell your software to RECEIVE the file.
That is a rather generic description since the procedure may vary SLIGHTLY
from one system to another.  The SysOp of each system can tell you specifically
how to do it.
  
Capturing text is, as you've guessed, NOT "downloading" a file.  Instead, it is
writing (capturing) to a file all the TEXT that scrolls across your screen.
This is particularly useful when calling a long distance service and, rather
than read all of the stuff while connected to the service, you simply CAPTURE
all the text.  When you are off-line (the long distance meter is NOT running!)
you IMPORT the capture file into your word processor and read to your heart's
content!

> 2. Is there some place I can get shareware and public domain software
> for the Mac? How do I find them? How do I get access to them?

Your choices are MANY, although not very apparent, obviously.
  
You can subscribe to a "national" on-line service such as CompuServe, GEnie
or America OnLine.  Those major services have TONS of shareware and freeware
for ALL computer types.
  
Your second source for such files is a Bulletin Board System (BBS).  Just as
Macintoshes are vastly outnumbered by IBM/PCs, the ratio of PC-based BBSs to
Macintosh-supporting BBSs is similarly wide.  
  
To find if there is a BBS with Macintosh files in your free-calling area,
log-on on one of the local boards and ask!  Even though you use a Macintosh,
you can STILL call virtually ALL of the BBSs out there!
  
I scanned the FidoNet NodeList and found a SINGLE entry for St. Cloud:

      GRUS     656-1625     2400 baud    Harvey_Gulbrandson,SysOp 
  
I am sure this person can tell you a FEW points about downloading files,
although it is VERY likely his BBS is NOT Macintosh-related.
  
If you have ftp capability (likely from a university or college), you can
request files be sent to you.  This is an area of the on-line world about
which I know virtually nothing.  You'll have to ask a communications guru
at St. Cloud State how to "ftp" files.
  
Another good source for Macintosh files is a Macintosh User group.  You 
should call Apple's 800 number listed in your Macintosh manual for the
contact name/number nearest you.


> 3.  What do the following abbreviations mean?
> 
>         UUCP  (or is it UUPC?)

It is UUCP - and that is ALL I know about it!    (grin)

>         NNTP
  
Dunno.
>         MacTCP

More Internet/Usenet jargon.  I believe it is a software application that
is needed to ftp files!  (Here we go again!)

>         FAQ

Frequently Asked Question.
  
> (it's really hard to understand the postings on this group when you
> can't decipher the acronyms!)

Agreed!  You get extra credit, however, for having the NERVE and taking the
TIME to write of your ignorance.  Sadly, too many new(er) users are too
embarrased to write what they feel will likely be BASIC, elementary or mundane
questions.  They forget that we were ALL new at this once, and most of us ENJOY
helping new(er) users - if they would just ask!

> 4. I've been told that I need Z modem. My QL2 and CW both have
> xmodem. What is the difference? Is one better than the other?

ZModem file transfer protocol is quite superior to XModem.  It incorporates
software error correction as well as other advanced features.  Traditionally,
it transfers data 25-40% FASTER than XModem.  With large files, especially if
calling long distance, this can SAVE money!  It is as EASY to use as XModem.
  
Traditionally, your "Works" programs have a BASIC communications module - just
enough "horsepower" to get the AVERAGE user up-and-running with a modem.  The 
same goes for the software that is usually "bundled" with a new modem 
purchase:  It is either OLD sofware or an intentionally "detuned" version
of a well known commercial software package.

Your best bet is, after you locate a SOURCE for your software quest, to 
download  "ZTerm".  It is *THE* defacto champion of Macintosh communications
shareware.  It support ZModem as well as modest scripting capabilities.  If
you use the program often, the author requests that you send him $30.

> 5. ...Do you have any other basics that you think I should know? I
> mainly use the communication stuff for ... well... communicating with
> other users, like this. I don't know how to transfer files yet, so
> maybe once I learn, I'll do that more.
  
Practice makes perfect!  Don't NOT call a BBS simply because it does not
SPECIFICALLY support the Macintosh.  There are MANY, fine non-Macintosh
Bulletin Board Systems out there that are quite good - and even offer something
for those of us SMART ENOUGH to have bought Macintosh!
  
You are probably well aware of the following but, in the event that you are
not, I will continue:
  
It is substantially less expensive to call long distance OUTSIDE of your own
state.  What this means is that, if you MUST call a BBS with "the meter
running", it will be cheaper for you to call MINE (in Omaha) than one in the
Twin Cities!  (Go figure - but it's true.  I work for US WEST Communications)

With that blatant plug delivered, I will elaborate:  Call MacNet Omaha
(402) 289-2899.  My BBS supports ONLY the Macintosh, and you will find
more than enough to keep you riveted for EVER!!

> It would probably be easier if you email to me, rather than post.

I will likely post this in comp.sys.mac.comm as WELL as emailing you.  One
of the MAIN purposes of posting messages (and replies) PUBLICLY, is so that
OTHER new(er) users can benefit from the questions and answers.

You are more than welcome (indeed, encouraged) to call my BBS - or to
email me with questions.  Be prepared for a likely delay:  As the SysOp
of a MAJOR BBS, I am kept busy running my board, so an email reply could
take several days.
  
JR          jim.redelfs@macnet.omahug.org


Newsgroups: comp.sys.mac.comm