This control panel lets you decide whether or not to get downloads of new artwork when using America Online and eWorld. It only affects those applications. You can block and unblock artwork even while online. If you block artwork, it is not downloaded, but it is not lost. You can always get any artwork you do not have by setting the controls to unblock.
To use ArtValve effectively, I recommend reading these instructions completely. You will probably find your questions answered in this text. When you set it up correctly, you will marvel at how much time, disk-space, frustration and money ArtValve will save you every hour you're online.
AOL and eWorld Versions
ArtValve works with any version of eWorld. It only works with AOL versions 2.5 and later.
On-Off Radio Buttons
In order to work, ArtValve's startup (INIT) code has to be installed in your system. These buttons control whether or not to install ArtValve when your Macintosh is restarted. A message next to the buttons indicates whether ArtValve is currently on or off (installed or not installed). Installing or de-installing only takes effect when you restart your Macintosh.
• To install ArtValve, click the On button. If a message indicates it is currently off, you will have to restart your Macintosh before setting the controls for blocking or unblocking artwork (see below).
• To completely remove ArtValve from your system, click the off button. If it is currently on, you will have to restart for the change to take effect.
Controlling AOL or eWorld
You set up ArtValve to control eWorld in exactly the same way as I will explain for AOL, so let's just use AOL as our example. Of course, AOL and eWorld are controlled independently of each other.
Quick Set Up
To start blocking AOL artwork right away, just follow these steps:
1) Make sure ArtValve is currently on.
2) Check the America Online checkbox.
3) Press the Find America Online… button.
4) A standard file dialog will appear.
5) Locate and open your AOL application.
That's all. However, it will help a lot to discuss these controls in more detail.
When to use the Find America Online… Button
In order to work, ArtValve needs to know the correct name of your current AOL application. The name ArtValve is using is displayed in a message area just above the Find America Online… button.
• You definitely need to use the button when setting up for the first time.
• You need to use the button if you upgrade AOL to another version, say from 2.5.0 to 2.5.1.
Other than that, you really do not need to use this button.
When to use the Checkbox
Okay, ArtValve is turned on (On radio button) and the name is set properly (Find America Online... button). All you have to do to block or unblock artwork is check or uncheck the America Online checkbox.
• Check the box to block artwork.
• Uncheck the box to allow artwork downloads.
Unless you have upgraded your version of AOL, or have decided to turn the control panel completely off, you don't have to operate anything other than this checkbox.
Tip: The checkbox settings take effect immediately, even if you are online and even if the control panel window is open. If you want, you can keep the ArtValve window open, blocking and unblocking artwork on the fly.
Troubleshooting
I have never known ArtValve 2.0 to cause problems with AOL or eWorld, but I have never known any software to be completely perfect. If you do experience problems, please follow these steps:
1) Turn ArtValve off and see if the problem goes away.
2) Remove ArtValve from the System folder (Control Panels) folder, and see if that helps.
In any case, be kind to the AOL and eWorld support staff. If you really think ArtValve is the trouble, tell me, not them. I will be happy to help. Don't bother your service's overburdened staff if I am to blame. Reach me by email at the address below.
The Fee
ArtValve is only $5. I think you'll find that it pays for itself in saved online time. If you agree, send your kind token of appreciation to:
Bill Karsh
5220 S. Kenwood Ave. #601
Chicago, IL 60615
I am happy to receive comments at:
billKarsh@AOL.com.
Credits
Many thanks to Jametha "Testerella" Smith for quality assurance testing, and to Kelly Bowles for "the faucet" and interface suggestions. Thanks also go to my wife who said "Hey, I know something you could write..."
