CompuServe has three classic chat features, plus the 3D delights of Worlds Away [bookmark to Worlds Away]. General chat used to be presented as online CB, but this approach is being toned down, probably to get away from CBÆs trucker image. Within the general chat area there are 36 channels, with broad names like The Loft, Hospitality Suite or UK Chat. There are also two sets of Adult channels, where the conversation is supposed to be a little less ... formal.

CompuServe also offers auditorium-style scheduled chats. These are on specific topics and often feature a special guest. An auditorium chat is strictly controlled - questions are submitted to a controller who decides which will be passed on to the auditorium window.

Finally, CompuServe has a rich chat life in its forums. Each forum has a conference room for discussions, and at any time a forum member can check who is browsing and address another user directly. This is probably the most unnerving of the chat modes, because it happens entirely without warning. I have to confess, the first time it happened to me I ran a mile - but once you get the hang of chat, it can be very effective for getting a quick opinion. If you intend to initiate a conversation, itÆs worth having a purpose in mind. I was in a forum recently when I was addressed out of the blue. æHi thereÆ I said back, wondering what deep topic was about to be discussed. æIÆm fifteenÆ was the reply. I wasnÆt really sure how to respond to this, beyond saying that IÆd been there once, didnÆt like and it and was unlikely to return.