Q&A 1: How do I download files?
Q&A 2: Why can't I download one of your applications?
Q&A 3: How long does it take?
Q&A 4: What do I do after downloading the file?
Q&A 5: Why are the download files so big?
              Internet glossary


1. How do I download files?

Just click on the link to the file you want to download. A window will then be presented by your browser that will ask you if you want to save the file and if so, where. Save the file to any convenient place on your computer. The file will then be downloaded to your computer. When the download is complete, find the file in your file system using Windows Explorer and double click it. This will start the installation process which will install and register all the files necessary for the application. When the installation is complete you can remove the download file.

Step by Step instructions:
1. Choose the program and the version you want to download.
2. Note the name, size and version of the file.
3. A dialog box opens and asks you "What would you like to do with this file ?". Choose "Save it to disk".
4. In a second window, choose a directory to save the file. Then click OK.
5. The download begins. Please be patient and wait until the end of the file transfer.
6. Using Windows Explorer select the previously chosen directory, launch the install file and follow the installation instructions.
7. When the program is installed, you can launch the programm.
8. You can remove the evaluation limits by registering the software using the order form.

2. Why can't I download one of your applications?

There are several reasons why a download, once started, fails to download or fails to install once completed. Check to see that your ISP allows large file downloads, some have restrictions of the maximum size of file transfers. If the application fails to load then it may have been corrupted during transmission. All of our applications are thoroughly tested before posting and are transferred by hundreds of people each day.

3. How long does it take?

It depends on several factors including the type of modem or connection you have and the level of network traffic. Most browsers will give an estimate of time remaining when you start the download.

4. What to do after downloading?

The downloaded file contains all the files necessary to complete the installation including the application, help files, supporting DLL files and the installation wizard which handles installation itself. After the file has been transferred onto your computer, simply click on the file and the install wizard will start and begin the installation.

5. Why are the download files so big?

A side from containing the executable, help files and install script, the download file contains Dynamic Link Libraries (DLLs) used by the application. These DLLs, supplied by Microsoft, are the same ones used by other Windows applications. While your computer may already have these DLLs the installation program insures that the DLL is at the proper version to support the application. If your computer has an older version of the DLL then the installation will replace it. DLLs are by design backwards compatible - replacing the DLL will not affect programs that use the older version of the DLL.

Internet Glossary

Computers have a particular, and some might say peculiar, terminology all their own. Below is a condensed glossary of terms to assist you in understanding downloading files and the Internet.

Browser: Software (such as Netscape or Microsoft Internet Explorer) that is used to view various kinds of Internet resources and display information in a graphic format.

Download: To transfer files from one computer to another, or from the Internet.

E-mail: (Electronic Mail) Messages sent from one person to another via computer.

Internet: The global collection of inter-connected networks that links information and communications from more than 100,000 independent and educational networks and supports the World Wide Web.

Internet, Dial-Up Connection: The most popular form of connection. You gain access to the Internet by using telephone lines and a modem to log into a computer host that connects you with the Internet. See ISP.

Internet, Direct Connection: Use of a dedicated line to connect to the Internet (avoiding regular phone lines).

Internet Service Provider (ISP): An ISP is a company, organization or institution that connects users to the Internet. ISPs provide access to the Internet and the Web (and sometimes other services) for a subscription fee or hourly-use rate. Examples include America Online, CompuServe, Concentric, Mind Spring, etc.

Modem (MOdulator, DEModulator): A device that you connect to your computer and to a phone line that allows the computer to talk to other computers through the phone system.

Network: Two or more computers that are connected together so that they can share files and resources.

Operating System: The basic program computers use to organize files, launch software and manage system resources. Windows 95, Windows 98 and Windows NT are the most popular operating systems currently produced by Microsoft.

Server: A computer, or a software package, that provides a specific kind of service to client software running on other computers. Servers house web sites, direct e-mail, and offer programs and software that distant client computers can use.

Web Site: Also sometimes known as Web Pages or Home Pages. A collection of text, graphics, sounds, animations and/or video containing information that can be viewed via the World Wide Web. Organizations and individuals develop Web sites to promote their services, educate the public and provide access to information and ideas.

World Wide Web (WWW or "the Web"): A global system of computers that uses the Internet to transmit information, pictures and programs. You navigate the Web by clicking on links (icons or highlighted text), which carry you to related web sites and information. What makes the Web such a useful medium is the high availability of free information and the ability to provide easy access information housed on a computer next door or halfway
around the world.