Help Index
WinCIM Help Table of Contents

WinCIM Help Topics

Accessing a Service

Address Book

CB Simulator

CompuServe Mail

Executive News Service

Filing Cabinet

Forums

Glossary

Icons

Member Support

Preferences

Ribbon

Settings

Terminal Emulation

About WinCIM Help

Introduction

Proprietary Information


Proprietary Information

The following names are service marks of CompuServe Incorporated:

B Protocol

B+ Protocol

CompuServe's CB Simulator

CompuServe's Citizen Band Simulator

CompuServe Directory

CompuServe Mail

Executive News Service

WinCIM

The following names are registered marks of CompuServe Incorporated:

CompuServe

CompuServe Information Manager

Online Today

All other brand and product names are marks or registered marks of their respective companies.

WinCIM is the property of CompuServe Incorporated.  A portion of WinCIM was developed by Intuitive Software Systems, Inc.


This is the Channels icon.  You'll find it on the CB Toolbox.


This is the Who's Here icon.  You'll find it on the CB Toolbox.


This is the Change Handle icon.  You'll find it on the CB Toolbox.


This is the Friends icon.  You'll find it on the CB Toolbox.


This is the Invite icon.  You'll find it on the CB Toolbox.


This is the Squelch icon.  You'll find it on the CB Toolbox.


This is the Notices icon.  You'll find it on the ENS Toolbox.


This is the Select Folder icon.  You'll find it on the ENS Toolbox.


This is the Retrieve Marked Stories icon.  You'll find it on the ENS Toolbox.


This is the Create Folder icon.  You'll find it on the ENS Toolbox.


This is the Update Folder icon.  You'll find it on the ENS Toolbox.


This is the Delete Folder icon.  You'll find it on the ENS Toolbox.


This is the Get Waiting icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Browse Messages icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Search Messages icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Create Forum Message icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Enter Room icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Invite icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Library Notices icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Browse Files icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Search Files icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Contribute icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Who's Here icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Ignore icon.  You'll find it on the Forum Toolbox.


This is the Print icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon in some services.


This is the Leave icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon in some services.


This is the Disconnect icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon in some services.


This is the Exit icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon in some services.


This is the Save icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon in some services.


Help: Displays this help page.


You see this dialog after you do any of the following:

Click the Create Folder icon at the ENS Toolbox or choose Create Folder from the Stories menu in ENS.

Choose [image] at an Update Folder dialog.


You see this dialog after you do any of the following:

Choose [image] at a Select Folder dialog.

Choose [image] at a Search for Stories dialog.

Choose [image] on a Personal folder at a Select Folder dialog.


You see this dialog after you do any of the following:

Choose Set Function Keys from the Special menu in CB

Choose Set Function Keys from the Special menu in Terminal Emulation.

Choose [image] at the General Preferences dialog.


You see this dialog after you do any of the following:

Click the Who's Here icon at the CB Toolbox or choose Who's Here from the People menu in CB.

Choose [image] at the Channel Selector dialog.


You see this dialog after you do any of the following:

Choose [image] at a Search for Files dialog.

Choose [image] at a Library Sections dialog.


You see this dialog after you do any of the following:

Choose [image] from a Message Search dialog.

Choose [image] at a Message Sections dialog.


You see this dialog after you do any of the following:

Click the Notices icon at the Forum Toolbox or choose Notices from the Special menu in a forum.

Choose Descriptions from the Messages menu in a forum.

Choose Descriptions from the LIbrary menu in a forum.

Choose Descriptions from the Conference menu in a forum.


You see this dialog after you do any of the following:

Choose [image] at the Get New Mail dialog.

Choose [image] at the In-Basket dialog.


You get here by clicking the Address Book icon or by choosing Address Book from any of these menus:

Mail menu on the initial Information Manager desktop.

Messages menu in a forum.

Special menu in CB, Terminal Emulation, or ENS.


You get here by clicking the Filing Cabinet icon or by choosing Filing Cabinet from any of these menus:

Mail menu on the initial Information Manager desktop.

Messages menu in a forum.

Special menu in CB, Terminal Emulation, or ENS.


You get here by clicking the In-Basket icon or by choosing In-Basket from any of these menus:

Mail menu on the initial Information Manager desktop.

Messages menu in a forum.

Special menu in CB, Terminal Emulation, or ENS.


You get here by clicking the Out-Basket icon or by choosing Out-Basket from any of these menus:

Mail menu on the initial Information Manager desktop.

Messages menu in a forum.

Special menu in CB, Terminal Emulation, or ENS.


You see this dialog after you choose [image] from any of the following dialogs:

An ENS Story dialog.

An ENS Story dialog in the Filing Cabinet.

A Forum Message dialog.

A Mail Message dialog in your CompuServe mailbox.


You see this dialog after you choose [image] from any of the following dialogs:

A Forum Reply dialog.

A Create Mail dialog.

A Mail Message dialog in your In Basket or Filing Cabinet.


You see this dialog after you do any of the following:

Choose [image] at the Channel Selector dialog.

Choose [image] at the Conference Rooms dialog.


You see this dialog after you do any of the following:

Choose [image] at the Filing Cabinet dialog.

Choose [image] at the Paste From dialog after selecting the Filing Cabinet option and highlighting a listed folder.


Accessing a Service

There are many ways to access services on CompuServe.  These four buttons on the Ribbon enable you to quickly find or access the services you want.

Accessing a Service Topics

Browsing Services

Finding Services

Going Directly to a Service

Grouping Your Favorite Services


CompuServe Mail

CompuServe Mail enables you to communicate with other members, as well as with users of other services, such as MCI Mail, AT&T Mail, and Internet.

CompuServe Mail Topics

Address Book

Addressing CompuServe Mail

Copying Text

Creating a Forum Message

Creating a Mail Message

Electronic Address Formats

Filing Cabinet

Getting New Mail

In Basket

Message Options

Out Basket

Pasting Text

Reading and Processing a Mail Message

Searching for CompuServe Members

Searching Your CompuServe Mail

Sending a Mail File Message

Sending and Receiving Mail Automatically


CB Simulator

CompuServe's CB Simulator lets you communicate with people all over the world.  Just like on a traditional citizen's band radio, you can monitor and tune to channels to converse with other CBers, but rather than speak into a microphone, you type at a keyboard.  Your comments are visible to others on the channel; their comments are visible to you.

To access the CB Simulator, choose CB Simulator from the Services menu, and then select either Access CB General Band or Access CB Adult Band.

If you are new to CB and want online assistance, select Access CB General Band, and then tune to Channel 2.

CB Simulator Topics

CB Preferences

CB Toolbox

Changing Your Handle

Function Key Settings

Inviting People to a Private Group

Learning Who Is on CB

Maintaining a Friends List

Monitoring a Conversation

Participating in Open Conversation

Selecting Channels

Speaking Privately with Just One Person

Squelching a Person

Tracking People


members:  CompuServe makes it easy for CBers to get to know each other.  Many members volunteer a profile of their interests and hobbies for the CB community.  You can monitor conversations and talk with CBers on open channels or converse in closed, private groups.  You can track member activity too with a special Tracking window that lets you see who is coming and going in CB.


File New Command
File New

The New command takes you to your Windows Notepad where you can create a text file.


File Open... Command
File Open...

The Open command takes you to an Open dialog where you can identify a file you wish to open.  The opened file is displayed at your Notepad.


File Save Command
File Save

The Save command lets you copy information displayed in an Information Manager text box, such as a forum or CompuServe Mail message or news article, into a text file.  Save takes you to a Save As dialog.


File Save As... Command
File Save As...

The Save As... command lets you copy information displayed in an Information Manager text box, such as a forum or CompuServe Mail message or news article, into a text file.  Save As... takes you to a Save As dialog.


File Print... Command
File Print...

The Print command lets you print information displayed in an Information Manager text box, such as online news articles and file abstracts, forum and CompuServe Mail messages, and other types of online text documents.


File Print Settings... Command
File Print Settings...

The Print Settings... command takes you to a Printer Setup dialog where you can modify your printer settings.


File Leave Command
File Leave

The Leave command exits an online area, such as a service or forum on CompuServe, without disconnecting you from CompuServe, returning you to the Information Manager's Initial desktop.


File Disconnect Command
File Disconnect

The Disconnect command disconnects you from CompuServe, returning you to the Information Manager's Initial desktop.


File Exit Command
File Exit

The Exit command disconnects you from CompuServe (if you are connected), and then exits the Information Manager.


Help Index Command
Help Contents

The Contents command displays a list of help topics from which you can learn more about the Information Manager.


Help Search for Help on... Command
Help Search for Help on...

The Search for Help on... command lets you find information using the help system search feature.  You provide a word for which you want help; the help system will display any matching help topics for you.


Help How to Use Help Command
Help How to Use Help

The How to Use Help command displays information about how to use the help system.


Help CompuServe Directory

The CompuServe Directory command displays a list of CompuServe services categories from which you can learn about each service and forum on CompuServe.


Help About CIM... Command
Help About CIM...

The About CIM... command displays the Information Manager About WinCIM box, which contains the Version number of WinCIM you are using, the date and Port ID of your last access, and the amount of disk space available on your microcomputer.


Window Tile Command
Window Tile

The Tile command redisplays windows on your desktop in such a way that each window becomes the same size.


Window Cascade Command
Window Cascade

The Cascade command arranges the windows on your desktop in a tiered or cascading fashion.


Window Arrange Icons Command
Window Arrange Icons

The Arrange Icons command rearranges the icons on your desktop into neat rows and columns.


Window Close All Command
Window Close All

The Close All command closes all windows on your desktop.


Edit Undo Command
Edit Undo

The Undo command cancels your most recent editing action.


Edit Cut Command
Edit Cut

The Cut command moves a block of selected text from a forum or CompuServe Mail message you are composing into the Clipboard, overwriting whatever is there.

Cut is useful when you want to move a portion of text from one place to another in your document, or from one document to another using the Paste command; and because the contents of Cut remain in the Clipboard even after you exit the Information Manager, you can use Cut to move text from one application to another.


Edit Copy Command
Edit Copy

The Copy command copies a block of selected text from an Information Manager text box, such as a news article or weather report or message composition box into the Clipboard, overwriting whatever is there.

Copy is useful when you want to duplicate certain text in various parts of your document.


Edit Paste Command
Edit Paste

The Paste command inserts Clipboard text into a forum or CompuServe Mail message you are composing at the cursor position.

Paste is usually used in conjunction with Cut and  Copy, although it can also be used to insert text that was in the Clipboard before you started up WinCIM.


Edit Clear Command

Edit Clear

The Clear command deletes selected text without writing it to the Clipboard.

The Undo command can retrieve cleared text if used immediately after Clear.


Edit Wordwrap Command
Edit Wordwrap

The Wordwrap command enables or disables whether the words you type in text windows will automatically wrap to the next line without having to issue a carriage return.


Edit Select All Command
Edit Select All

The Select All command selects all of the text in the active text window for cutting or copying.


Edit Fixed Font Command
Edit Fixed Font

The Fixed Font command lets you control the appearance of type in your Information Manager windows.


Edit Paste From... Command
Edit Paste From...

The Paste From... command takes you to a Paste From... dialog where you specify the location of text to be pasted into a forum or CompuServe Mail message.  You can paste your text from a text file on a disk or from an entry in your Filing Cabinet, In-Basket, or Out-Basket.


Edit Copy To... Command
Edit Copy To...

The Copy To... command takes you to a Copy To... dialog where you can copy your selected text to a forum or CompuServe Mail message.


Services Favorite Places... Command
Services Favorite Places...

The Favorite Places... command takes you to your Favorite Places area where you can access your most frequently used services and forums from a customized list in a Favorite Places dialog.


Services Find... Command
Services Find...

The Find... command takes you to a Find dialog, where you can search for services on CompuServe.  You can go directly to any service you find.  You can also add the services you find to your Favorite Places.

Find... will attempt to connect you to CompuServe, if you are not already connected, to conduct its search.


Services Go... Command
Services Go...

The Go... command takes you to a Go... dialog where you can access a service if you know the service name.


Services What's New... Command
Services What's New...

The What's New... command lets you learn about new merchants and services, promotions, ways to increase the value of CompuServe, and other news of interest to the entire CompuServe community.

What's New... will attempt to connect you to CompuServe if you are not already connected.


Services Special Events... Command
Services Special Events...

The Special Events... command lets you keep abreast of upcoming happenings, such as contests, services enhancements, promotions, bargains, and shopping specials by taking you to a menu of special events without attempting to connect you to CompuServe.

Special Events... does not connect you to CompuServe.


Services Executive News Command
Services Executive News

The Executive News... command takes you to the Executive News Service where you can access a comprehensive collection of various news wires and clip news stories into personal electronic folders.


Services Quotes... Command
Services Quotes...

The Quotes... command takes you to a Stock Quotes dialog where you can obtain stock quotes from a personalized list of ticker symbols.


Services Weather... Command
Services Weather...

The Weather... command takes you to a Weather dialog where you can obtain a weather forecast locally or for selected cities or weather reporting stations in the United States and around the world.


Services CB Simulator Command
Services CB Simulator

The CB SImulator command takes you to the CB Simulator's introductory menu where you can learn about CB and access one of two communication bands of 36 channels each.


Services Browse... Command
Services Browse...

The Browse... command takes you to a pictorial Services window where you can explore CompuServe's hierarchy of services and forums at your own pace.


Mail Get New Mail Command
Mail Get New Mail

The Get New Mail command takes you to a Get New Mail dialog where you can read and delete CompuServe Mail messages or transfer them to your In-Basket.

Get New Mail will attempt to connect you to CompuServe if you are not already connected.


Mail Create Mail... Command
Mail Create Mail...

The Create Mail... command lets you compose and address a CompuServe Mail message.

Create Mail... takes you to a Recipient List dialog where you can assign recipient and carbon copies information using your Address Book; from there you access a Create Mail dialog where you compose the text of your message.


Mail Send/Receive All... Command
Mail Send/Receive All...

The Send/Receive All... command takes you to a Send and Receive All Mail dialog where you can have the Information Manager send your outgoing Out-Basket messages, as well as retrieve your incoming CompuServe mailbox messages into your In-Basket, automatically.


Mail Search New Mail Command
Mail Search New Mail

The Search New Mail... command takes you to a Search New Mail dialog where you can search for particular messages in your CompuServe mailbox.


Mail Send File... Command
Mail Send File...

The Send File... command lets you send a text or binary file using CompuServe Mail to any CompuServe member.

Send File... takes you to a Recipient List dialog where you can assign recipient and carbon copies information using your Address Book; from there you access a Send File Message dialog where you provide summary information about the file you are sending..


In Basket Command
In-Basket

The In-Basket command opens your In Basket where you can read, edit, delete, forward, and reply to messages at an In Basket dialog.

The In-Basket command appears on the Mail menu on the Initial Desktop, the Special menu in CB, ENS, and Terminal Emulation, and the Messages menu in a forum.


Out Basket Command
Out-Basket

The Out Basket command opens your Out Basket, where you can process your outgoing CompuServe Mail and forum messages at an Out-Basket dialog.

The Out Basket command appears on the Mail menu on the Initial Desktop, the Special menu in CB, ENS, and Terminal Emulation, and the Messages menu in a forum.


Filing Cabinet... Command
Filing Cabinet...

The Filing Cabinet... command opens your Filing Cabinet where you can access, create, or remove folders and files stored there at a Filing Cabinet dialog.

The Filing Cabinet command appears on the Mail menu on the Initial Desktop, the Special menu in CB, ENS, and Terminal Emulation, and the Messages menu in a forum.


Address Book Command
Address Book

The Address Book command opens up your Address Book where you can access, modify, add, and remove entries at an Address Book dialog.

The Address Book command appears on the Mail menu on the Initial Desktop, the Special menu in CB, ENS, and Terminal Emulation, and the Messages menu in a forum.


Special Terminal Emulation... Command
Special Terminal Emulation...

The Terminal Emulation... command takes you to a  Terminal Emulation... dialog where you can access CompuServe or another host-based computer system in Terminal Emulation, an environment in which your computer behaves as a mere terminal.


Special Rebuild Cabinet Indexes command
Rebuild Cabinet Indexes

The Rebuild Cabinet Indexes command updates the indexing system used by the Filing Cabinet.  Normally, if you have shut down your microcomputer unexpectedly while connected to CompuServe, or if the Information Manager detects that the Filing Cabinet indexing scheme has been changed, the indexing system is updated automatically the next time you start up the Information Manager.  Rebuild Cabinet Indexes allows you to initiate an update whenever you like.


Special Forum Database... Command
Forum Database...

The Forum Database... command takes you to a  Forum Databases dialog which lists the forums you access.  If there is a forum listed that you no longer use regularly, or if you have reason to believe that information in the Information Manager's database about a forum is inaccurate, such as the name of message section or library section, you should delete the forum from the Forum Databases dialog.  Doing so will clear up any inconsistencies that might have come about due to unanticipated forum updates.


Special Session... Command
Special Session Settings...

The Session Settings... command lets you modify your CompuServe connection information, such as your baud rate, network, and communication port at a  Settings... dialog.


Special Modem... Command
Special Modem Settings...

The Modem Settings... command lets you modify your modem-related communications information at a Modem Control Strings... dialog.


Special Preferences... Command
Special Preferences...

The Preferences command displays a submenu of the various Information Manager Preferences commands, which enable you to set options and preferences for the various desktops and features in the Information Manager:

General lets you specify some general options for running the Information Manager, such as whether to display your Favorite Places each time you start up the Information Manager, at a General Preferences... dialog.

Mail lets you specify Mail-related preferences at a Mail Preferences... dialog.

Forum lets you specify forum-related preferences at a Forum Preferences... dialog.

Executive News lets you specify Executive News Service-related preferences at an ENS Preferences... dialog.

Conference/CB Simulator lets you specify CB-related preferences at a CB Preferences... dialog.

Terminal Emulation lets you specify Terminal  Emulation related preferences at a Terminal Emulation Preferences dialog.


Preferences General... Command
Preferences General...

The General... command lets you specify some general options for running the Information Manager, such as whether to display your Favorite Places each time you start up the Information Manager, at a General Preferences... dialog.


Preferences Mail... Command
Preferences Mail...

The Mail... command lets you specify Mail-related preferences at a Mail Preferences... dialog.


Preferences Forum... Command
Preferences Forum...

The Forum... command lets you specify forum-related preferences at a Forum Preferences... dialog.


Preferences ENS... Command
Preferences ENS...

The ENS...command lets you specify Executive News Service-related preferences at an ENS Preferences... dialog.


Preferences CB... Command
Preferences CB...

The CB... command lets you specify CB-related preferences at a CB Preferences... dialog.


Preferences Terminal... Command
Preferences Terminal...

The Terminal... command lets you specify Terminal  Emulation related preferences at a Terminal Emulation Preferences dialog.


Mail Member Directory Command
Mail Member Directory

The Member Directory command takes you to a Search Member Directory dialog where you can find out information about other CompuServe members.


Messages Browse Command
Messages Browse

The Browse command takes you to a Message Sections dialog where you can choose a forum section and learn and read the various section topics.


Messages Search Command
Messages Search

The Search command lets you find the messages you want by taking you to a Message Search dialog.  You provide a topic keyword, User ID, or message number;  the Information Manager looks for messages that match your information.


Messages Get Waiting Command
Messages Get Waiting

The Get Waiting command displays a list of unread messages addressed to you at a Message Topics dialog.  If there are no messages waiting for you, this command is dimmed.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Messages Retrieve Marked... Command
Messages Retrieve Marked...

The Retrieve Marked... command lets you retrieve all the messages you marked during your forum session at a Retrieve Marked Messages dialog.  This command is dimmed if you have not marked any messages during your forum session.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Messages Set Date... Command
Messages Set Date...

The Set Date... command lets you decide the oldest message to be included in your forum session.  Set Date takes you to a Set First Message Date... dialog


Create Forum Message Command
Creating a Forum Message

The Create Forum Message and Create Message commands both do the same thing, taking you to a Create Forum Message dialog where you can compose a forum message.

Create Forum Message appears on the Mail menu on the Initial Desktop and allows you to create a forum message without being connected to CompuServe.

Create Message appears on the forum Messages menu, but it will be dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.

You must be a member of a forum before you can send, or post, forum messages in the forum.


Message Notice Command
Messages Notice

The Notice command displays any message board announcements from the Sysop of the forum.


Messages Descriptions Command
Messages Descriptions

The Descriptions command displays a brief summary of message board functions.


Messages Freshen Messages Command
Messages Freshen Messages

The Freshen Messages command updates or freshens the message board while you are in the forum.


Library Browse Command
Library Browse

The Browse command shows you the forum library categories.  Browse takes you to a Library Sections dialog where you can review summary descriptions of each file and retrieve one or more files.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Library Search... Command
Library Search...

The Search... command lets you search for library files.  Search takes you to a Search for Files dialog where you can search for files by file identification, contributor's User ID number, or topical keywords.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Library Retrieve Marked... Command
Library Retrieve Marked...

The Retrieve Marked... command lets you retrieve any files you mark during your particular forum session.  Retrieve Marked... takes you to a Retrieve Marked Files dialog.  This command is dimmed if you have not marked any files during your forum session.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Library Contribute... Command
Library Contribute...

The Contribute... command lets the Information Manager copy a file from your microcomputer to a forum library.  Contribute... takes you to a Contribute... dialog.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Library Notice Command
Library Notice

The Notice command lets you learn library announcements from the Sysop.


Library Description Command
Library Descriptions

The Descriptions command lets you read descriptions of each library section in the forum.


Conference Enter Room... Command
Conference Enter Room

The Enter Room command takes you to a Conference Rooms dialog where you can enter a conference.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Conference Who's here... Command
Conference Who's Here...

The Who's Here... command lets you learn who is currently in the forum and gives you the opportunity to initiate a private conversation.  Who's Here... takes you to a Who's Here dialog.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Conference Set Nickname... Command
Conference Set Nickname...

The Set Nickname... command lets you change your conference name by taking you to a Change Nickname... dialog.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Conference Ignore... Command
Conference Ignore...

The Ignore... command lets you block conversation for whatever reason from people you specify.  Ignore takes you to an Ignore... dialog.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Conference Invite... Command
Conference Invite...

The Invite... command lets you invite others to join a private group.  Invite... takes you to an Invite... dialog.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Conference Notice Command
Conference Notice

The Notice command lets you learn of any conference announcements.


Conference Descriptions Command
Conference Descriptions

The Descriptions command lets you read summaries of conference room functions.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Conference Notices Command
Forum Special Notices

The Notices command lets you learn forum-related announcements provided by the Sysop.


Forum Special Forum Options... Command
Forum Special Forum Options...

The Forum Options... command lets you change the way the forum interacts with you by taking you to a  Forum Options... dialog.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Forum Special Join Forum... Command
Forum Special Join Forum...

The Join Forum... command lets you become a member of the forum.  Join Forum... takes you to a Joining a Forum... dialog, the same dialog you see when you first enter a forum as a non-forum member.

This command is dimmed if you are a member of the forum.


Forum Special Search Membership Command
Forum Special Search Membership...

The Search Membership... command lets you learn information about your fellow forum members at a Search for Membership... dialog.

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Forum Special Change Member Entry... Command
Forum Special Change Member Entry...

The Change Member Entry... command lets you modify or add information about yourself to the forum member directory at a Change Member Interests... dialog..

This command is dimmed if you are not a member of the forum.


Forum Special Preferences Command
Forum Special Preferences

The Preferences command lets you customize various forum features.


Forum Special Toolbox Command
Forum Special Toolbox

The Toolbox command displays the Forum Toolbox, a pictorial menu of some of the more frequently used forum commands.


Stories Select Folder... Command
Stories Select Folder...

The Select Folder... command lets you open an ENS Public or Personal folder to access stories.  Select Folder takes you to a Select Folder... dialog.


Stories Retrieve Marked Stories... Command
Stories Retrieve Marked Stories...

The Retrieve Marked Stories... command lets you copy any of the stories you marked during your ENS session to your microcomputer.  Retrieve Marked Stories... takes you to a Retrieve Marked Stories dialog.


Stories Notices Command
Stories Notices

The Notices command lets you read announcements about any upcoming changes in ENS.


Stories Create Folder... Command
Stories Create Folder...

The Create Folder... command takes you to a Create Folder... dialog where you can set up a Personal Folder; ENS will clip news stories that match your search criteria and store them in the appropriate Personal Folder.


Stories Update Folder... Command
Stories Update Folder...

The Update Folder... command lets you modify Personal Folder preferences and instructions by taking you to an Update Folder... dialog.


Stories Delete Folder Command
Stories Delete Folder

The Delete Folder... command lets you get rid of a Personal Folder by taking you to a Delete Folder dialog.


ENS Special Toolbox Command
ENS Special Toolbox

The Toolbox command displays the ENS Toolbox, a pictorial menu of some of the more frequently used ENS commands.


Channels Command
Channels

The Channels command lets you tune to and monitor a channel and learn information about who is on a particular channel.  Channels takes you to a Channel Selector dialog.


People Who's here... Command
People Who's Here...

The Who's Here command lets you learn who is on CB and gives you the opportunity to initiate a private conversation.  Who's Here... takes you to a Who's Here dialog.


People Invite... Command
People Invite...

The Invite... command lets you invite others to join a private group.  Invite... takes you to an Invite... dialog.


People Friends... Command
People Friends...

The Friends... command lets you consult and modify a customized list of your CB friends.  Friends... takes you to a Friends... dialog.


People Squelch Command
People Squelch

The Squelch... command lets you block messages for whatever reason from people you specify.  Squelch takes you to a Squelch dialog.


CB Special Change Handle... Command
CB Special Change Handle...

The Change Handle... command lets you specify a new handle or nickname at a Change Handle... dialog.


CB Special Toolbox Command
CB Special Toolbox

The Toolbox command displays the CB Toolbox, a pictorial menu of some of the more frequently used CB commands.


Special Set Function Keys... Command
CB Special Set Function Keys...

The Set Function Keys command lets you set up certain key combinations as a shorthand for typing text in CB.  Set Function Keys takes you to a Function Key Settings dialog.


CB Special Bulletin Command
CB Special Bulletin

The Bulletin command lets you learn CB community news.


CB Special Bulletin Command
CB Special Record Channel

The Record Channel command lets you copy the current channel conversation to a file..


CB Special Bulletin Command
CB Special Record Group

The Record Group command lets you copy the current group conversation to a file..


Terminal Emulation Special Capture Buffer Command
Terminal Emulation Special View Buffer

The View Buffer command lets you review your recent online activities.


Terminal Emulation Special Terminal Window Command
Terminal Emulation View Terminal

The View Terminal command exits the capture buffer and returns you to wherever you were before.


Terminal Emulation Special Printer Command
Terminal Emulation Record on Printer

The Record on Printer command toggles your CompuServe dialogue printing state.

The first time you choose Record on Printer, the Information Manager begins printing the subsequent dialog between you and CompuServe -- everything you type and everything CompuServe displays; then when you choose Record on Printer again, printing stops.


Terminal Emulation Special Terminal Logging Command
Terminal Emulation Special Record in File

The Record in File command toggles your terminal logging state.

The first time you choose Record in File, the Information Manager begins recording your subsequent terminal emulation activity -- everything you type and everything CompuServe displays -- in a special file on your microcomputer; then when you choose Record in File again, logging stops.


Terminal Emulation Special Set Function Keys... Command
Terminal Emulation Special Set Function Keys...

The Set Function Keys... command takes you to a Function Key Settings dialog where you assign certain key combinations and special instructions to your function keys.


Terminal Emulation Special Clear Capture Buffer Command
Terminal Emulation Special Clear Buffer

The Clear Buffer command empties the contents of your capture buffer.


Ribbon

The desktop ribbon is a pictorial menu of services and features that you might use frequently.

In certain services, such as Travelshopper (CIM) and  Weather,  you see this smaller ribbon instead:

During your logon process you see this button on the Ribbon.  You can click on it to cancel the connection process.

Once you are connected to CompuServe, the Information Manager keeps a count of your connect time and displays it on the Ribbon for you.


This is the Help icon.  It gives you interactive help as you use the Information Manager.  Clicking this icon is equivalent to pressing F1.


This is the Favorite Places icon.  It represents the Favorite Places command on the Services menu.  It takes you to your Favorite Places area where you can access services and forums from a customized list at a Favorite Places dialog.


This is the Find icon.  It represents the Find command on the Services menu.  It takes you to a Find dialog, where you can search for services on CompuServe.  You can go directly to any service you find.  You can also add the services you find to your Favorite Places.


This is the Browse icon.  It represents the Browse command on the Services menu.  It takes you to a pictorial Services window where you can explore CompuServe's hierarchy of services and forums at your own pace.


This is the Go icon.  It represents the Go command on the Services menu.  It takes you to a Go dialog from which you can access a service if you know the service name.


This is the Quotes icon.  It represents the Quotes command on the Services menu.  It takes you to a Stock Quotes dialog where you can obtain stock quotes from a personalized list of ticker symbols.


This is the Weather icon.   It represents the Weather command on the Services menu.  It takes you to a Weather dialog where you can obtain a weather forecast locally or for selected cities or weather reporting stations in the United States and around the world.


This is the In-Basket icon.  It represents the In-Basket command on the Mail menu.  It takes you to your In-Basket where you can read, edit, delete, forward, and reply to messages at an In-Basket dialog.


This is the Out-Basket icon.  It represents the Out-Basket command on the Mail menu.  It takes you to your Out-Basket where you can process your outgoing CompuServe Mail and forum messages at an Out-Basket dialog.


This is the Filing Cabinet icon.  It represents the Filing Cabinet command on the Mail menu.  It takes you to your Filing Cabinet where you can access, create, or remove folders and files from a Filing Cabinet dialog.


This is the Address Book icon.  It represents the Address Book command on the Mail menu.   It takes you to your Address Book where you can access, modify, add, and remove entries from an Address Book dialog.


This is the Get New Mail icon.   It appears on the Ribbon only when you are connected to CompuServe and have Mail in your mailbox.  It represents the Get New Mail command on the Mail menu.  It takes you to your CompuServe mailbox where you can access your incoming Mail from a Get New Mail dialog.


This is the ENS icon.  It represents the Executive News command on the Services menu.   It takes you to the Executive News Service.


This is the Exit icon.  It appears on the Ribbon only when you are connected to CompuServe.  It represents the Exit command on the Mail menu.  It disconnects you from CompuServe and exits the Information Manager, returning you to your Windows desktop.


This is the Disconnect icon.  It appears on the Ribbon only when you are connected to CompuServe.  It represents the Disconnect command on the File menu.  It disconnects you from CompuServe and returns you to the Information Manager's Initial Desktop.


This is the Help icon.  It gives you interactive help as you use the Information Manager.  Clicking this icon is equivalent to pressing F1.


This is the Print icon.  It represents the Print command on the File menu.  It prints whatever is in the current Information Manager text box, such as a flight schedule or weather report.


This is the Save icon.  It represents the Save command on the File menu.  It saves the contents of the current Information Manager text box into a file on your hard disk.


This is the Leave icon.  It represents the Leave command on the File menu.  It leaves or exits a service without disconnecting you from CompuServe, returning you to the Information Manager's Initial Desktop.


This is the Disconnect icon.  It represents the Disconnect command on the File menu.  It disconnects you from CompuServe and returns you to the Information Manager's Initial Desktop.


This is the Exit icon.  It represents the Exit command on the Mail menu.  It disconnects you from CompuServe and exits the Information Manager, returning you to your Windows desktop.


 Browsing Services

The Services window is a pictorial menu of the major service categories on CompuServe.  Just click an icon to access a list of services in that category.

You get to the Services window by choosing Browse from the Services menu.

You see the Services window automatically when you start up the Information Manager if the Browse option in the General Preferences dialog has been set.

Related Information

Accessing a Service

Finding Services

Going Directly to a Service

General Preferences

Grouping Your Favorite Services


This is the Browse icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


Basic Services takes you to CompuServe's basic services, a basic group of the most popular CompuServe services, priced at a standard flat monthly rate.  This means there are no connect time charges, no matter how much you use these services (although there are surcharges for connecting through some communications networks in some locations.)


Computers gives you support for virtually any software or computer on the market.  Support includes direct links to software and hardware companies, libraries of online information and forums of knowledgeable users willing to help you solve your problems.  Twenty-four hours a day, you can log on and communicate with someone online or post messages which will be answered, typically within 24 hours.


Forums are the places where CompuServe members meet to exchange information, expound opinions and ideas, and participate in general conversation.  There are hardware forums devoted to particular makes of computer equipment, software forums that offer support for popular programs, professional forums that cater to members of various professions, and more.


Communications contains information on products that enable you to communicate with other CompuServe members.  You can use CompuServe Mail to send messages to specific people, forums to participate in discussions on specific topics, CB to type in real-time with other CompuServe members around the world, and the CompuServe Classifieds to post ads.


News contains a global news clipping service, business news, feature stories, sports scores and interviews, public and aviation weather, and even Hollywood gossip.  This section also includes sports forums.


Investments provides you with an overview of the services which can assist you with your investments.  Though tailored for the individual investor, CompuServe's financial services are also utilized by many Wall Street firms.  You can get quotes on stock prices, find out information about companies and buy and sell securities.  CompuServe invites you to use the H&R Block ticker symbol to practice and see the type of information each product provides.  Type HRB at most company or issue prompts and get live information without a surcharge.


Reference comprises an extensive reference library that enables you to gather vast amounts of current and historical information quickly and efficiently.  The section includes large databases comprised of: demographic information; articles from periodicals; directories of products, manufacturers, and households; trademark and legal information; government proceedings, information, and statistics; consumer information; and newsletters.


Travel provides you with air, hotel, car, tour and cruise information.  In addition, U.S. domestic and international information is available.


Shopping contains the CompuServe products that enable you to shop in the comfort of your own home.  Depending on the merchant, you can order from online catalogs or have print catalogs sent to your home.


Games contains many different types of games.  Some games are for one player against the computer.  For others, like MegaWars I and III, you interact with other players, either as allies or enemies.


Lifestyles contains information on diverse interests and hobbies such as food, wines, genealogy, sailing, stamp collecting, pets, fitness and health.


Professional describes forums which enable professionals to exchange ideas and information with others in the same field.  People interested in the law, medicine, and other professional fields will find a forum to suit their professional interests.


Member helps you find your way around the CompuServe Information Service.  It provides information such as billing, logging on, ordering and operating rules.


Address Book

The Address Book dialog lists the names and addresses of your electronic correspondents.

There are many ways to get here.

Related Information

Adding a Group to Your Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats


This is your Address Book icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


Address Book entries are listed in alphabetical order by last name.  You can make both individual and group entries.  Beth is an individual entry.  Congressionals is a group entry comprised of three individual entries.


Add: Takes you to an Add to Address Book dialog where you can add an entry.


Add Group: Takes you to an Add Group to Address Book dialog where you provide a group name and identify group members.


Change: Displays the highlighted entry for you to review or modify.  If the entry is an individual entry, you go to a Change Entry in Address Book dialog.  If the entry is a group entry, you go to an Add Group to Address Book dialog.  In this example, Beth is the entry that would be changed.


Delete: Removes the highlighted entry.  In this example, the Beth entry would be removed.


OK: Records your changes and closes the dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any of your changes.


Help: Gives you context-sensitive help about this dialog.


Electronic Address Formats

Sample Address Formats

AT&T Mail 400

CompuServe Address

CompuServe MHS Hub Service

Fax

Internet

MCI Mail

Private CompuServe Mail Systems

SprintMail

Telex

Western Union 400 (Easylink)

Explanation of Address Formats

AT&T Mail 400

CompuServe Address

CompuServe MHS Hub Service

Fax

Gram

Internet

MCI Mail

Postal

Private CompuServe Mail Systems

SprintMail

Telex

Western Union 400 (Easylink)

For more information about sending and receiving Mail, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


AT&T Mail 400

Example:

X400:(C=US;A=ATTMAIL;S=SCALI;G=AL;D=ID:ASCALI)


Western Union 400 (Easylink)

Example:

X400:(C=US;A=WESTERNUNION;S=SCALI;G=AL;D=ELN:ASCALI)


CompuServe Address

Example:

75140,1062


CompuServe MHS Hub Service

Example:

MHS:WILSON@MTAGROUP


Fax

To a North American destination:

FAX:19995551212

To a destination outside North America:

FAX:443312345


Gram

Example:


Internet

Example:

INTERNET:jdoe@abc.osu-cis.edu


MCI Mail

Example:

MCIMAIL:1234567


Postal

Example:


Private CompuServe Mail Systems

Example:

ABC:ADDRESS


SprintMail

Example:

X400:(C=US;A=TELEMAIL;P=XYZGROUP;S=JONES;G=BOB)


Telex

Example:

TLX:9991234567ABCDEF


X400

Example:

X400:(C=US;A=ATTMAIL;S=SCALI;G=AL;D=ID:ASCALI)


AT&T Mail 400

1.	Type X400

2.	Type a colon

3.	Type a left parenthesis

4.	Type C= followed by the recipient's country code and a semicolon

5.	Type A=ATTMAIL followed by a semicolon

6.	Type S= followed by the recipient's family name or surname and a semicolon

7.	Type G= followed by the recipient's given name and a semicolon

8.	Type D=ID followed by a colon and the domain-defined attribute

9.	Type a right parenthesis

Example:

X400:(C=US;A=ATTMAIL;S=SCALI;G=AL;D=ID:ASCALI)

For more information about AT&T Mail 400, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


Western Union 400 (Easylink)

1.	Type X400

2.	Type a colon

3.	Type a left parenthesis

4.	Type C= followed by the country code and a semicolon

5.	Type A=WESTERNUNION followed by a semicolon

6.	Type S= followed by the family name or surname and a semicolon

7.	Type G= followed by the given name and a semicolon

8.	Type D=ELN followed by a colon and the domain-defined attribute

9.	Type a right parenthesis

Example:

X400:(C=US;A=WESTERNUNION;S=SCALI;G=AL;D=ELN:ASCALI)

For more information about Western Union 400 (Easylink), choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


CompuServe Address

Use the CompuServe User ID number.

Example:

75140,1062


CompuServe MHS Hub Service

1.	Type MHS

2.	Type a colon

3.	Type the recipient's user name

4.	Type @

5.	Type the recipient's workgroup name

Example:

MHS:WILSON@MTAGROUP

For more information about CompuServe MHS Hub Service, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


Fax

To any North American destination:

1.	Type FAX

2.	Type a colon

3.	Type 1

4.	Type the area code

5.	Type the phone number of the fax machine

Example:

FAX:19995551212

To any destination outside North American:

1.	Type FAX

2.	Type a colon

3.	Type the country code

4.	Type the city code (optional) or area code

5.	Type the phone number of the fax machine

Example:

FAX:443312345

For more information about Fax, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


Gram

To learn how to send a Congressgram or other type of Gram:

1.	Choose [image] from your desktop ribbon.

2.	Type Grams

3.	Choose [image].

The Information Manager takes you to the Grams area on CompuServe.

For more information about Gram, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


Internet

1.	Type INTERNET

2.	Type a colon

3.	Type the recipient's valid user address

4.	Type @

5.	Type the domain address (including subdomains)

Example:

INTERNET:jdoe@abc.osu-cis.edu

For more information about Internet, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


MCI Mail

1.	Type MCIMAIL

2.	Type a colon

3.	Type the recipient's MCI Mail address

Example:

MCIMAIL:1234567

For more information about MCI Mail, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


Postal

With CompuServe Postal Mail, you can send personalized, laser-printed letters to anyone with a mailing address, anywhere in the world.

For proper transmission, postal messages must meet the following guidelines: A maximum of 219 lines )or four pages) per letter (longer letters will be truncated); A maximum of 80 characters per line (longer lines will be truncated); Only ASCII text (all other chaaracters will be removed).

Letters are laser printed onn 8 1/2 by 11 inch white paper.  Both the returnee's and recipient's addresses are automatically printed on the first page of the letter.  Letters are placed in white envelopes with two windows -- one for the returnee's address and one for the recipient's address.

To send postal mail:

1.	Choose [image] from your desktop ribbon.

2.	Type ASCIIMAIL

3.	Choose [image].

The Information Manager takes you to the Postal area on CompuServe.

After composing a message, enter the word POSTAL at the Send ($) to (Name or User ID): prompt.  The service will prompt you for the recipient's name and address, one line at a time.

For more information about Postal, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


Private CompuServe Mail Systems

1.	Type the organization's private CompuServe code

2.	Type a colon

3.	Type the receiver's mailbox address

Example:

ABC:ADDRESS

For more information about private CompuServe Mail systems, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


SprintMail

1.	Type X400

2.	Type a colon

3.	Type a left parenthesis

4.	Type C= followed by the country code and a semicolon

5.	Type A=TELEMAIL followed by a semicolon

6.	Type P= followed by the private domain and a semicolon

7.	Type S= followed by the family name or surname and a semicolon

8.	Type G= followed by the given name and a semicolon

9.	Type a right parenthesis

Example:

X400:(C=US;A=TELEMAIL;P=XYZGROUP;S=JONES;G=BOB)

For more information about SprintMail, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


Telex

1.	Type TLX

2.	Type a colon

3.	If the message is being sent to a destination outside the United States, type the recipient's three-digit country code

4.	Type the recipient's machine number

5.	If you desire an answerback you may type it after the recipient's machine number.

Example:

TLX:9991234567ABCDEF

For more information about Telex, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


X400

1.	Type X400

2.	Type a colon

3.	Type a left parenthesis

4.	Type C= followed by the country code and a semicolon

5.	Type A= followed by the administrative domain and a semicolon

6.	Type P= followed by the private domain and a semicolon

7.	Type S= followed by the family name or surname and a semicolon

8.	Type G= followed by the given name and a semicolon

9.	Type I= followed by the middle initial and a semicolon

10.	Type D=ID: followed by the domain defined attribute

11.	Type a right parenthesis

Example:

X400:(C=US;A=ATTMAIL;S=SCALI;G=AL;D=ID:ASCALI)

For more information about X400, choose Go... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and go to ASCIIMAIL;  then type HELP and press return at any ensuing CompuServe Mail Main Menu screen to view a list of Mail help topics.


Providing Your Password

The Password dialog is where you type your CompuServe password.  You won't see your password as you type it, only asterisks.

You see the Password dialog whenever the Information Manager attempts to connect you to CompuServe if you do not have correct password information specified in your Session Settings dialog.

Related Information

Session Settings


Changing a Folder Name

The Change Folder dialog enables you to change the name of a folder in your Filing Cabinet.

You get here by choosing [image] at the Filing Cabinet dialog.

Related Information

Deleting Folder Entries

Filing Cabinet

Opening a Folder


Folder Name: Type the new name for the folder.  Initially, the current name appears here.   In this example, Auto-Filed is the folder name about to be modified.


OK: Records any changes and closes the dialog.  Returns you to the Filing Cabinet dialog.


Cancel: Cancels any changes and closes the dialog.  Returns you to the Filing Cabinet dialog.


DOS Directory: The name of the subdirectory on your microcomputer where folder messages and articles are stored.  In this example, FOLDER00.002 is the name of the subdirectory for all Auto-Filed messages and articles.  You are not able to modify this information.


Filing Cabinet

The Filing Cabinet dialog is where you store electronic messages and articles.

There are many ways to get here.

The Information Manager will automatically add a folder to your Filing Cabinet if the File Outgoing Messages option has been set in your Mail Preferences dialog.

File Cabinet Topics

Changing a Folder Name

Deleting Folder Entries

Opening a Folder

Reading and Processing a Mail Message

Reading and Processing a Forum Message

Reading a Filed ENS Story

Reading News Stories

Filing a Message or a Reply

Pasting Text


This is your Filing Cabinet icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


Folders are listed alphabetically.


Open: Shows the contents of the highlighted folder.  In this example,  the Auto-Filed folder would be opened.  Takes you to an Opening a Folder dialog.


New: Takes you to an Add New Folder dialog where you can add a folder to your Filing Cabinet..


Change: Takes you to a Change Folder dialog where you can modify the name for the highlighted folder.  In this example, Auto-Filed is the name of the folder to be changed.


Delete: Removes the highlighted folder from your Filing Cabinet if the folder is empty.  If the folder is not empty, Delete takes you to a Deleting Folder Entries dialog.  In this example, the Auto-Filed folder is highlighted.


Close: Closes the dialog.


Adding a New Folder

The Add New Folder dialog enables you to add a folder to your Filing Cabinet.

You get to the Add New Folder dialog by choosing New at the Filing Cabinet dialog.

Type the name of the new folder at Folder Name.  Then click OK.

Related Information

Deleting Folder Entries

Filing Cabinet

Opening a Folder


Important Information

The Information Manager displays important information in this type of dialog.  Please take a few moments to read it.

Click Proceed when you are ready to continue.


Grouping Your Favorite Services

The Favorite Places dialog maintains a customized list of your favorite CompuServe services so that you can access them quickly.

You get here by choosing Favorite Places from the Services menu or by clicking the Favorite Places icon on the Ribbon.

You see the Favorite Places dialog automatically when you start up the Information Manager if the Favorite Places option in the General Preferences dialog has been set.

Related Information

Accessing a Service

Browsing Services

Finding Services

Going Directly to a Service

General Preferences

Interpreting Results of a Find


This is your Favorite Places icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


Your Favorite Places entries are listed in alphabetical order.


Go: Takes you to the highlighted service or forum.  In this example, you would go to the Adobe Forum.


Add: Takes you to an Add to Favorite Places dialog where you can add an entry.


Change: Takes you to a Change Favorite Places dialog where you can modify the highlighted entry.  In this example, Adobe Forum is the entry that would be modified.


Delete: Removes the highlighted entry from your Favorite Places.  In this case, Adobe Forum is the entry that would be removed.


Close: Closes the dialog.


Finding Services

The Find dialog searches for services on CompuServe.

You get to the Find dialog by choosing Find from the Services menu or by clicking the Find icon on the Ribbon.

Type a word that describes the type of service you are interested in at Topic.  Then click OK.  The Information Manager will display a list of related services in a Search Results dialog.

If you are not already connected to CompuServe, the Information Manager will connect you in order to conduct its search.

Once at the Search Results dialog you can access any listed service directly.  You can also add listed services to your Favorite Places.

Related Information

Accessing a Service

Browsing Services

Going Directly to a Service

Grouping Your Favorite Services


This is your Find icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


Going Directly to a Service

The Go dialog accesses a service, but you must know the unique service name.

You get to the Go dialog by choosing Go from the Services menu or by clicking the Go icon on the Ribbon.

Type the unique service name at Service, such as WINNEW for the Windows New Users Forum or HELP for the Member Support area on CompuServe.  Then click OK.  The Information Manager will take you directly to that service.

You can learn service names for the various CompuServe services and forums by typing QUICK at Service and then clicking OK.

You can also go directly to a service from some other dialogs: the Search Results dialog, after conducting a Find operation; a Favorite Places dialog, if the service happens to be one of the services listed there; a Display Menu dialog, if you are browsing services.

Related Information

Accessing a Service

Browsing Services

Finding Services

Grouping Your Favorite Services


This is the Go icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


Searching for CompuServe Members

The Search Member Directory dialog searches the CompuServe Member Directory for information about members.

You get here by choosing Member Directory from the Mail menu.

Related Information

Discovering Member Interests

Electronic Address Formats

Finding CompuServe Members

Finding Forum Members

Learning about CompuServe Members

Searching for Forum Members


First Name: If you know the person's first name, type it here.  Unless you are sure of the name, you might want to leave this blank, as the person might have used a nickname when registering.


Last Name: If you know the person's last name, type it here.


City: If you know the city the person is registered in, type it here.


State: If you know the state the person is registered in, type it here.


Country: If you know the country the person is registered in, type it here.


Mailbox Name: If you know the person's electronic mailing address, type it here.


OK: Begins your search.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Creating a Mail Message

The Create Mail dialog enables you to compose a message to be sent in CompuServe Mail.

You get here by choosing Create Mail from the Mail menu and then completing the ensuing Recipient List dialog.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats

Filing Cabinet

Out-Basket


Address: Takes you to a Recipient List dialog where you can assign recipient information.


Your recipient address information appears here after you choose OK at your Recipient List dialog.  TO: refers to the primary recipient, CC: refers to a carbon copy recipient, and BC: refers to a blind copy recipient.  This cannot be blank.


Subject: Type a descriptive word or phrase for the message.  Subject cannot be blank.


Options: Takes you to a Message Options dialog where you can assign some additional options to your message.


Type or paste the body of your message (up to 50,000 characters) here.  If this is incomplete, you can store the message in your Out-Basket or Filing Cabinet, to be completed later.


Out-Basket: Copies the message to your Out-Basket and closes this dialog.  Unless you specify information for Address, Subject, and the body of your message, Out-Basket is not a valid selection and will be dimmed.


Send Now: Transmits your message.  The Information Manager connects you to CompuServe if you are not already connected.  Unless you specify information for Address, Subject, and the body of your message, Send-Now is not a valid selection and will be dimmed.


File It: Takes you to a Filing Cabinet dialog where you can copy the message to your Filing Cabinet.  Unless you specify information at Address and Subject, File It is not a valid selection and will be dimmed.


Cancel: Closes this dialog without saving any information or mailing your message.


Reformat on send: Mark this if you want your message text to wrap to a 72 column width.


This gives you some information about Options....  The Information Manager will mark this if you have modified any of the default options in the Message Options dialog.


Message Options

The Message Options dialog gives you some processing options for your outgoing CompuServe Mail messages.

You get here by choosing [image] at a Create Mail dialog.

Related Information

CompuServe Mail


Receipt: Mark this to receive a confirmation message if a recipient reads your message.


Reply Requested: Mark this to request a reply when a recipient reads your message.  (Text and location vary from system to system.)


Importance: Select the importance level for your message.  Some systems will deliver messages of high importance first.


Sensitivity: Select the sensitivity level for your message.


Release Date: Type the date on which you want CompuServe to send the message.  Unless you specify a different date, the current date is the normal release date.


Expiration Date: If you like,  type a date for the message to be removed from the recipient's mailbox.


OK: records your options and returns you to where you were before.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording your information.


Help: Displays this help page.


Getting New Mail

The Get New Mail dialog lists your waiting Mail messages in your CompuServe mailbox.

You get here by choosing Get New Mail from the Mail menu or by clicking the Get New Mail icon on the Ribbon.

Related Information

CompuServe Mail

In-Basket


This is the Get New Mail icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


These are your mailbox entries.  Subject tells you what each message is about.  Name tells you who sent you the message.  Size tells you how large the message is.


Get: Displays the message associated with the highlighted entry.  Takes you to a Message dialog.  In this example, you would view the Receipt of message mailbox entry.


Get All: Moves all messages in your mailbox to your In-Basket.  Closes the Get New Mail dialog.


Delete: Removes the highlighted entry from your mailbox.  In this example, the Receipt of message mailbox entry would be removed.


Undelete: If you have removed one or more entries from your mailbox without closing the Get New Mail dialog, Undelete will cancel the action.  (Undelete causes each previously deleted entry to reappear as an entry.)


Close: Closes this dialog.


Reading and Processing a Mail Message

The Message dialog displays a CompuServe Mail message.

There are many ways to get here.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats

Filing Cabinet

In-Basket


Address: Not available when reading a message.


If there are multiple recipients to the message, they will be listed here.  Blind copy recipients will not be listed.  If the message is addressed only to you, this box will be empty.  In this example, you are the only recipient.


From: Takes you to an Add to Address Book dialog where you can save the sender's name and electronic mailing address in your Address Book.


This is the sender's name and electronic mailing address.


Receipt: If marked, the sender will receive a confirmation message stating that you have read the message.


Reply Requested: If marked, you will be prompted to reply to the message.


Priority: If marked, the message is a high-priority message and will preceed non-priority messages in your CompuServe mailbox.


In-Basket: Puts a copy of the message into your In-Basket.  Displays the Get New Mail dialog.


File It: Takes you to a Filing Cabinet dialog where you can copy the message to your Filing Cabinet.


Reply: Takes you to a Create Mail dialog where you can compose and send a return message..


Forward: Takes you to a Create Mail dialog where you can forward the message to one or more recipients.  You can type a note to introduce the forwarded message.


Delete: Removes the message from your mailbox.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Addressing CompuServe Mail

The Recipient List dialog assigns recipient information to a CompuServe Mail message that you are creating.

You get here by choosing Create Mail or Send File from the Mail menu.

Related Information

Address Book

Adding a Recipient List

CompuServe Mail


TO: Select this to identify a primary recipient.  Every message must have at least one TO recipient, although a message may have multiple TO recipients.


CC:  Select this to identify a carbon copy recipient.  Every CC recipient will receive a copy of your message.


BC:  Select this to identify a blind copy recipient.  (BC recipients receive a copy of your message, but are not mentioned in any corresponding distribution list.)


Name:  If the recipient is not already in your Address Book, type the recipient's name as you want it to appear on the message.  Choose Add to record Name and Address information under Recipients.  If the recipient is already an entry in your Address Book, skip Name and Address, highlight the appropriate entry under Address Book, and choose Copy >>.


Address:  If the recipient is not already in your Address Book, type the recipient's electronic mailing address.  Choose Add to record Name and Address information under Recipients.  If the recipient is already an entry in your Address Book, skip Name and Address, highlight the appropriate entry under Address Book, and choose Copy >>.


Address Book:  These are your Address Book entries.  To use an entry as a message recipient, highlight the entry and choose Copy >>.


Add: Records Name and Address information under  Recipients.


Delete: Removes the highlighted entry under Recipients.


Copy >>: Adds the highlighted entry under Address Book to the list of entries under Recipients.


<< Copy: Adds the highlighted entry under Recipients to the list of entries under Address Book.


Recipients: These are your message recipients.  If you want to add an entry to your Address Book, highlight the entry and choose << Copy.


Show Recipients: Mark this to list the TO and CC recipients in your message.  However, BC recipients will not be listed.


OK: Records your information and closes this dialog.  Takes you to the appropriate dialog for composing a message.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any changes.


Copy Original: If you are replying to a message and want the reply to be sent to each original message recipient, mark Copy Original.  Unless you are replying to a message, Copy Original will be dimmed and will not be a valid selection.


Change: Moves the highlighted entry under Recipients to the Name and Address boxes where you can edit the information.


Sending a Mail File Message

The Send File Message dialog lets you send a text or binary file that is stored on disk as a CompuServe Mail message.

You get here by choosing Send File from the Mail menu and then completing the ensuing Recipient List dialog.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Filing Cabinet

Out-Basket


Address: Takes you to a Recipient List dialog where you can assign recipient information.


Your recipient address information appears here after you choose OK at your Recipient List dialog.  TO: refers to the primary recipient, CC: refers to a carbon copy recipient, and BC: refers to a blind copy recipient.  This cannot be blank.


Type a descriptive word or phrase for your file.  This cannot be blank.


Options: Takes you to a Message Options dialog where you can assign some additional options to your message.


File: Takes you to a standard  Windows Open dialog where you can select a file from disk.


Specify the path and filename.  If you use File to specify this information, the path and filename are recorded here automatically; but if you prefer, you can bypass File and simply type a path and filename yourself.


Binary: Mark this if the file is a binary file (arranged in binary format), such as an executable program or word processor file.


Text: Mark this if the file is a text file (arranged in ASCII format).


GIF: Mark this if the file is a GIF file.


Additional Information: Type a comment if you wish.  Recipients will see your comment before retrieving your file message.


Out-Basket: Copies the message to your Out-Basket and closes this dialog.  Unless you specify the appropriate information at this dialog, Out-Basket is not a valid selection and will be dimmed.


Send Now: Transmits your message.  The Information Manager attempts to connect you to CompuServe if you are not already connected.  Unless you specify the appropriate information at this dialog, Send-Now is not a valid selection and will be dimmed.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without sending the file.


Opening a Folder

The Opening a Folder dialog displays the contents of a folder in your Filing Cabinet.

There are many ways to get here.

Related Information

Deleting Folder Entries

Filing Cabinet

Reading a Filed ENS Story

Filing a Message or a Story

Filing a Message or a Reply


Highlight the entry you are interested in.  Then choose Open to read the entry, or Delete to eliminate the entry.  If you choose Delete, you will not be able to reverse the action.


Open: Displays the highlighted entry.  If the highlighted entry is an ENS story, Open takes you to a Story  dialog.  If the highlighted entry is a Mail message, Open takes you to a Message dialog.  If the highlighted entry is a forum message, Open takes you to a Forum Message dialog.


Delete: Removes the highlighted entry from the folder.  This action is permanent.


Close: Closes the dialog.


In-Basket

The In-Basket dialog lists the incoming Mail entries that you have retrieved from your CompuServe mailbox.

There are many ways to get here.

The Information Manager will delete messages from your CompuServe mailbox once you have retrieved them into your In-Basket if the Delete Retrieved Mail option in your Mail Preferences is set.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Filing Cabinet

Mail Preferences


This is your In-Basket icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


These are the entries in your In-Basket.  If a - symbol precedes an entry, it means you have not yet read that message.  (In this example, you have not read any In-Basket messages.)  Highlight the one you are interested in.  Then choose Open to read the entry or Delete to remove the entry from the In-Basket.


Open: Displays the message associated with the highlighted entry.  Takes you to a Message dialog.  In this example, you would view the Homebuilders message from Jerry Timson.


Delete: Removes the highlighted entry from the In-Basket.  The Information Manager asks you to confirm your intention before performing the deletion.  In this example, the Homebuilders message from Jerry Timson would be removed.


Close: Closes the dialog.


Out-Basket

The Out-Basket dialog lists your outgoing CompuServe Mail messages.  Messages are automatically removed from the Out-Basket when you send them.

There are many ways to get here.

You will be prompted about any unsent messages in your Out-Basket when you attempt to exit the Information Manager if the Prompt for Unsent Messages option in the General Preferences dialog has been set.

The Information Manager will put copies of messages sent from your Out-Basket into your Filing Cabinet if the File Outgoing Messages option in your Mail Preferences dialog is set.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Filing Cabinet

General Preferences

Mail Preferences


This is your Out-Basket icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


 These are the messages in your Out-Basket to be sent.  Highlight the one you are interested in.  Then choose Open to access the message for reviewing or editing,  Delete to remove the message from the Out-Basket, or Send to send the message.  If you choose Delete, you will not be able to cancel the deletion.  If you want to send all messages at once, choose Send All.


Open: Displays the message associated with the highlighted entry so that you can review or edit it.  If the highlighted message is a Mail message, Open takes you to a Create Mail dialog.  If the highlighted message is a forum message, Open takes you to a Create Forum Message dialog.  In this example, the Great News! message entry would be opened.


Send: Transmits the message associated with the highlighted entry.  The Information Manager will attempt to connect you to CompuServe if you are not connected already.  In this example, the Great News! message entry would be sent.


Send All: Transmits all messages in your Out-Basket.  The Information Manager will attempt to connect you to CompuServe if you are not connected already.


Delete: Removes the highlighted entry from your Out-Basket.  This action is permanent.  In this example, the Great News! message entry would be removed.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Obtaining Stock Quotes

The Stock Quotes dialog brings you the latest stock market quotes from a customized list of ticker symbols.

You get here by choosing Quotes from the Services menu or by clicking the Stock Quotes icon.


This is your Stock Quotes icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


Your customized list of ticker symbols are listed here.


Get All: Gives you quote information for all ticker symbols.  Takes you to a Stock Quotes Report dialog.


Get: Gives you quote information for the highlighted ticker symbol.  Takes you to a Stock Quotes Report dialog.


Add: Takes you to an Add Ticker Symbol dialog where you can add a ticker symbol.


Delete: Removes the highlighted ticker symbol from the customized list displayed at the Stock Quotes dialog.


OK: Records your changes and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without making any of your changes.


Help: Displays this help page.


Viewing Stock Quotes

The Quotes Information dialog displays price information for the ticker symbols you requested at the Stock Quotes dialog.

U.S. exchanges require that the dissemination of trading information be delayed for at least 15 minutes.  CompuServe makes the information available as soon as possible afterwards.

Related Information

Obtaining Stock Quotes


Connecting Using Terminal Emulation

The Terminal Emulation dialog initiates a connection to CompuServe or to another host-based computer system using Terminal Emulation.

You get to the Terminal Emulation dialog by choosing Terminal Emulation from the Special menu on the Initial Desktop.

Make sure that Manual Connect does not have an x in it if you wish to make a connection using the information recorded in your Session Settings dialog.  Click Connect to initiate the connection procedure.

Related Information

Session Settings


Requesting a Weather Report

The Weather dialog offers you a local weather forecast or a weather forecast for selected cities across the United States and the world.  Weather reports are from the National Weather Service and Accu-Weather.

You get here by choosing Weather from the services menu or by clicking the Weather icon on the Ribbon.


This is the Weather icon.  You'll find it on the Ribbon.


City: Select this if you want a municipal forecast.


Type a city or highlight one from the list of cities.  Highlight Local Weather if you want a forecast for your current location.


Displays a list of cities.


State/Province: Unless you specified Local Weather at City, type the appropriate state or province two-letter postal abbreviation, such as OH for Ohio or CA for California.


Country: Unless you specified Local Weather at City, type the appropriate country.


Station: If you like, you can skip filling in municipal, state, province, or country information and simply type a the three-letter code for the weather reporting station that would be in close proximity to the area you want.  If so, select Station and type the three-letter code in the box at the right.


If you selected Station, type the three-letter code for the weather reporting station that you want, such as CMH for Columbus, Ohio, or ORD for Chicago, Illinois.


OK: Displays a weather forecast based on the information you specified.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Help: Displays this help page.


Viewing a Weather Forecast

The Weather Forecast dialog displays a weather report for the information specified at the Weather dialog.

All weather reports are from the National Weather Service and Accu-Weather.

Related Information

Requesting a Weather Report


Adding an Address Book Entry

The Add to Address Book dialog creates an entry in your Address Book.

You get here by choosing [image] at the Address Book dialog.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats


Name: Type or edit the name of the entry as you want it to be appear in your Address Book.  If you are adding an entry from a Mail or forum message, the sender's name as shown on the message will appear here.


Address: Type or edit the electronic mailing address for the entry.  If you are adding an entry from a Mail or forum message, the sender's address will appear here.  For help with electronic mailing address formats, consult the Electronic Address Formats topic under Related Information.


Comments: You may type a comment or two if you like.


OK: Records the information in your Address Book.  Unless you have specified information at Name and Address, OK will not be a valid selection and will be dimmed.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without adding the entry to your Address Book.


Changing an Address Book Entry

The Change Entry in Address Book dialog displays an Address Book entry so that you can review or modify it.

You get here by choosing [image] at the Address Book dialog.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats


Name: This is the name of the entry as it appears in the Address Book.  You may edit it if you like.


Address: This is the electronic address format currently associated with the entry in the Address Book.  You may edit it if you like.  For help with electronic mailing address formats, consult the Electronic Address Formats topic under Related Information.


Comments: You may edit or add comment information if you like.


OK: Records the new information in your Address Book.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without making any of your changes.


Adding Groups

Click the dialog for which you desire help: the Add Group to Address Book dialog or the Update Group dialog.


Adding a Group to Your Address Book

The Add Group to Address Book dialog lists the entries in your Address Book so that you can combine one or more of them into convenient group entries.

You get here by choosing [image] at the Address Book dialog.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats


Group Name: Type the name of the address group you want to create or modify.


The entries currently in the address group you type at Group Name are listed here.


Add: Takes you to a Select Entry from Address Book dialog where you can put an entry from your Address Book into the address group.


Delete: Removes the highlighted entry from the address group and reenters it into the Address Book.


OK: Records the information about the address group and closes the dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Maintaining a Friends List

The Update Group dialog displays a list of your CB friends for you to review or modify.

You get here by clicking the Friends icon at the CB Toolbox or by choosing Friends from the People menu in CB.

Related Information

Address Book

Blocking Unwanted CB Chatter

CB Simulator

CompuServe Mail

Learning Who Is on CB

Electronic Address Formats


This is the Friends icon.  You'll find it on the CB Toolbox.


These are your current CB friends.


Add: Takes you to a Select Entry from Address Book dialog from which you can add entries to your Friends list.


Delete: Removes the highlighted entry from your Friends list.  In this example, the Ann entry would be removed from the group.


OK: Records your changes and closes the dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any of your changes.


Selecting an Address Book Entry

The Select Entry from Address Book dialog lists the entries in your Address Book.  Select the ones you want.

You get to the Select Entry from Address Book dialog by choosing Add at the Add Group to Address Book dialog.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats


Adding a Service to Favorite Places

The Add to Favorite Places dialog adds a service to your Favorite Places.

You get to the Add to Favorite Places dialog by choosing Add at the Favorite Places dialog.

Type the name of the entry as you want it to appear in your Favorite Places list at Description.  Type the unique service name -- the same name you would use to access the service directly -- at Service Name.  Then click OK.

You can learn service names by typing QUICK at the Go dialog and then clicking OK.

Sometimes if you are in a service the Add to Favorite Places dialog will automatically contain the correct service name.

Related Information

Browsing Services

Finding Services

Going Directly to a Service

Grouping Your Favorite Services

Interpreting Results of a Find


Changing a Service in Favorite Places

The Change Favorite Places dialog enables you to modify the way an entry is worded in your Favorite Places.

You get here by choosing [image] at the Favorite Places dialog.

Related Information

Browsing Services

Favorite Places

Finding Services


Description: Type the new wording for the entry that is most meaningful to you.  Initially, the current entry wording appears here.  Description refers only to the way the service is listed in your Favorite Places.  Service Name is what the Information Manager uses to access the service.


Service Name: This is the same name you would use to access a service directly using the Go command on the Services menu.  To learn service names for the various CompuServe services, Go to QUICK.


OK: Records any changes and closes the dialog.


Cancel: Cancels any changes and closes the dialog.


Interpreting Results of a Find

The Search Results dialog shows you the CompuServe services that are related to the topic you specified at the Find dialog.

You get here by choosing [image] at a Find dialog.

Related Information

Accessing a Service

Browsing Services

Finding Services

Going Directly to a Service

Grouping Your Favorite Services


Topic: These are the services related to the specified topic, listed in alphabetical order.  In this example, the topic is FORUM, so this is a list of all the forums on CompuServe.  You can go directly to any service listed by using the Go button in this dialog.


Favorite Places: These are the services currently in your Favorite Places.  You can add and remove services from this list using the Add and Remove buttons in this dialog.


Go: Takes you to the highlighted service listed under Topic.  In this example, you would go to the ACIUS Forum.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.  Does not cancel any of your changes.


Add: Puts the highlighted service listed under Topic: into your Favorite Places list.  In this example, ACIUS Forum would be added to Favorite Places.


Remove: Begins removal of the highlighted service listed under Favorite Places from your Favorite Places.  Takes you to a dialog where you are asked to confirm your intention.  If you do indeed remove the service, you will not be able to reverse the action by choosing Cancel at this dialog.  In this example, the Central Point Win/Mac Forum entry would be removed.


Adding a Ticker Symbol

The Add Ticker Symbol  dialog adds a ticker symbol to those listed at your Stock Quotes dialog.

You get to the Add Ticker Symbol  dialog by choosing [image] at the Stock Quotes dialog.

Type the ticker symbol you want to add at Ticker Symbol.  Do not specify a company name or CUSIP number.  Then click OK.

Related Information

Obtaining Stock Quotes


Icons

The Information Manager uses assorted icons -- buttons with pictorial representations -- throughout your session.  Here are a few examples:

Most icons represent menu commands.  Some icons represent CompuServe service categories.  In addition to the Ribbon, some services, such as CB, ENS, and forums, have Toolboxes -- palettes of handy icons -- which can help streamline your sessions.

Related Information

CB Toolbox

ENS Toolbox

Forum Toolbox

Ribbon

Services Window


This is the Favorite Places icon.  You'll find it on the ribbon.  It takes you to your Favorite Places.  It's a short cut for choosing the Favorite Places command from the Services menu.


This is the Who's Here icon.  You'll find it on both the CB and Forum Toolboxes.  It takes you to a special Who's Who dialog.  It's a short cut for choosing the Who's Here command from the People menu in CB or the Conference menu in a forum..


Entering a Conference Room

The Conference Rooms dialog lists the conference rooms in a forum.

You get here by clicking the Enter Room icon at the Forum Toolbox or by choosing Enter Room from the Conference menu in a forum.

Related Information

Monitoring a Conversation

Participating in Open Conversation

Speaking Privately with Selected Members

Forum Conferences


These are the forum's conference rooms.  On certain occasions, a conference room may be dimmed to show that it is unavailable.  You can learn how many persons are in a conference room by highlighting it.  In this example, there are 14 people in the Public Discussion conference room.


Enter: Takes you to a Room dialog where you can participate in a conference.  In this example you would enter the Public Discussion conference room.


Listen: Takes you to a Monitoring dialog where you can listen in on a conference room without being able to make comments.  In this example you would monitor the Public Discussion room.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Forum Toolbox

The Forum Toolbox is a pictorial menu of frequently used forum commands.

You can view the Forum Toolbox by choosing Toolbox from the Special menu in a forum.

If you want to see the Forum Toolbox automatically each time you access a forum, mark the Show Toolbox option in the Forum Preferences dialog.

Related Information

Forums

Forum Preferences


This is your Get Waiting icon.  It represents the Get Waiting command on the Messages menu.  It takes you to a Message Topics dialog that contains all the forum messages addressed to you.  You can select and read the ones you want.


This is your Browse icon for messages.  It represents the Browse command on the Messages menu.  It takes you to a Message Sections dialog that displays the forum's message sections.


This is your Search icon for messages.  It represents the Search command on the Messages menu.  It takes you to a Search for messages matching dialog where you can search for messages.


This is your Create Forum Message icon.  It represents the Create Forum Message command on the Messages menu.  It takes you to a Create Forum Message dialog where you can create a forum message.


This is your Library Notices icon.  It represents the Notices command on the Library menu.  It takes you to a General Information dialog where you can view library announcements from the Sysop.


This is your Browse icon for libraries.  It represents the Browse command on the Library menu.  It takes you to a Library Sections dialog that lists the forum library sections.


This is your Search icon for files.  It represents the Search command on the Library menu.  It takes you to a Search for Files dialog where you can search for files by file identification, contributor's User ID number, or topical keywords.


This is your Enter Room icon.  It represents the Enter Room command on the Conference menu.  It takes you to a Conference Rooms dialog that lists the forum conference rooms, from which you can enter a forum conference.


This is your Who's Here icon.  It represents the Who's Here command on the Conference menu.  It takes you to a Who's Here dialog where you can learn about who is currently in the forum.


This is your Contribute icon.  It represents the Contribute command on the Library menu.  It takes you to a Library Contribute dialog where you can upload a file from your microcomputer to a forum library.


This is your Invite icon.  It represents the Invite command on the Conference menu.  It takes you to an Invite dialog where you can invite one or more persons currently in the forum to join a private group conversation.


This is your Ignore icon.  It represents the Ignore command on the Conference menu.  It takes you to an Ignore dialog where you can block communication from one or more members currently in the forum.


Contributing a File to a Library

The Library Contribute dialog uploads a file to a forum library.

You get here by clicking the Contribute icon at the Forum Toolbox or by choosing Contribute from the Library menu in a forum.

Related Information

Browsing Library Files

Forums

Forum Libraries

Reading About a Library File

Searching for Library Files


File Name: Takes you to a standard Windows Open dialog where you can open, or select, the file you want to contribute.  If you prefer, you can bypass the File Name button and type file name and path information yourself.


Destination: If you want the file to have a different name in the forum, type it here.  If you use the File Name button to identify your file, Destination will initially show the same name, but without drive and path information.


File type: Choose the appropriate file type for your file.


Type the file name and path information.  This information is filled in automatically for you if you use the File Name button.


Forum: Choose the forum to which you wish to contribute the file.  Only forums of which you are a member will be listed here.  If you choose a forum other than the current forum and then choose OK to contribute your file, the Information Manager will ask to take you into that forum before beginning the upload process.


Title: Type a word or phrase that describes your file.  Title cannot be blank.


Keys: Assign one or more words to serve as keys, or keywords, to help people find your file when they conduct a file search.  You must provide Keys information.  Separate each keyword with a semicolon.  For example, if your file is a simple spreadsheet program, some keys you might include would be: SPREADSHEET;BUDGET;ACCOUNTING;SOFTWARE.


Library Section: Choose the appropriate library section for your file.


Description: Type a brief summary of the contents and purpose of your file.  The summary you provide will be displayed to forum members when they browse your file.  Description cannot be blank.


OK: Begins the upload process to CompuServe.  If you chose a forum other than the current forum for Forum, the Information Manager will ask to take you into that forum before beginning the upload process.  OK will not be available to you and will be dimmed until all information for the dialog has been entered.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without preserving the contents.


Creating a Forum Message

The Create Forum Message dialog enables you to compose a message that you can post in a forum message section.

You get here by clicking the Create Forum Message icon at the Forum Toolbox or by choosing Create Forum Message from either the Messages menu in a forum or the Mail menu on the Initial Desktop.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats

Filing Cabinet

Forums

Forum Messages

Out-Basket

Pasting Text


Subject: Type a word or phrase that describes your message.


If you are not using the To button, type the name of the person you are sending the message to.  This information is filled in automatically for you if you use the To button.


If you are not using the To button, type the recipient's electronic mailling address.  This information is filled in automatically for you if you use the To button.


Forum: Choose the forum in which you want to post the message.  Only forums of which you are a member will be listed here.  If you choose a forum other than the current forum and then choose Send to send your file, the Information Manager will ask to take you into that forum before sending your message.


Section: Choose the message section in the forum in which you want your message to be posted.


Private: Mark this if you want your message to be visible only to the recipient.  No one else in the forum will be aware of your reply.


Via Mail: Mark this if you want to send your message via CompuServe Mail.  The message will go directly to the recipient's private mailbox.


Type your message here.  If it is going to be very long, you will probably have to break it into multiple messages.


Send: Sends your message, connecting you to CompuServe if you are not already connected.   If you chose a forum other than the current forum for Forum, the Information Manager will ask to take you into that forum before sending the message.  Send will not be available to you and will be dimmed until all information for the dialog has been entered.


Out-Basket: Stores the message in your Out Basket and closes this dialog.


File It: Takes you to a Store Message dialog where you can store the message in your Filing Cabinet.


Delete: Erases the message.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording the information.  (The Information Manager prompts you to confirm your intention before actually closing the dialog.)


To: Takes you to a Select Entry from Address Book dialog where you can select an entry from your Address Book.  The Information Manager automatically addresses your message with the entry you select.  If you prefer, you can bypass this To button and type the name and electronic address yourself.


Replying to a Message

The Reply dialog enables you to compose a reply to a forum message.

You get here by choosing [image] at a Forum Message dialog.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats

Filing Cabinet

Forums

Forum Messages

Out-Basket


To: Takes you to an Add to Address Book dialog where you can add recipient information to your Address Book.


Send: Sends your reply message and closes this dialog.


Out-Basket: Puts your reply into the Out Basket where you can edit and send it later.  Closes this dialog.


File It: Takes you to a Store Message dialog where you can store the message in your Filing Cabinet.


Private: Mark this if you want your reply to be visible only to the recipient.  No one else in the forum will be aware of your reply.


Via Mail: Mark this if you want to send your reply via CompuServe Mail.  The message will go directly to the recipient's private mailbox.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording the information.  (The Information Manager prompts you to confirm your intention before actually closing the dialog.)


Reading About a Library File

The File Information dialog gives you a brief description of a forum library file.  You can mark or retrieve the file, or view the file it if is a GIF file.

You get here by choosing [image] at a File List dialog.

Related Information

Browsing Library Files

Forum Libraries


This is a simple abstract that summarizes the content or purpose of the file.   Accesses gives you an indication as to whether the file is popular, Submitted tells you whether the file is new or old, and Keys might give you some ideas about how to find similar files -- or even the same file if you happen to forget its name.


Next: Displays information about the next file listed at the File List dialog.  In this example, you would view a description for the Technical Information on the PC file entry (see the File List dialog).


Retrieve: Downloads the file right now.  Takes you to a standard Windows Save As dialog where you determine the path and filename for your disk.


View: Displays the file if it is a GIF or text file.  If the file is a GIF file, View takes you to a GIF Window.  If the file cannot be viewed, View will not be available and will be dimmed.


Mark: Identifies, or marks, the file for later retrieval.  Takes you to a standard Windows Save As dialog where you determine the path and filename for your microcomputer.


Delete: Removes the file from the forum library.  You can delete only files that you contribute.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Browsing Library Files

The File List dialog lists the files in a forum library section, or the files in a forum that match your search criteria after you conduct a file search operation.  You can then decide what to do with each file.

There are many ways to get here.

You can control whether certain information is displayed in the File List dialog, such as the file size, file name, or submission date, by setting the appropriate options in the Forum Preferences dialog.

Related Information

Forum Libraries

Forum Preferences

Reading about a File


Files are listed here along with some miscellaneous information about each file.  The particular information listed is determined by which options are set in the Forum Preferences dialog.


Description: Takes you to a File Information dialog where you can learn more about the file.  In this example, you would view a description for the CardConv 1.1 Cardfile to ASCII file entry.


Mark: Identifies, or marks, the highlighted file for later retrieval.  If Always Ask For File Name has been marked in the Forum Preferences dialog, Mark takes you to a standard Windows Save As dialog where you assign the path and filename information for your disk; otherwise the name listed in the forum library is used.  In this example, you would mark the CardConv 1.1 Cardfile to ASCII file entry.


Retrieve: Downloads the file right now.  Takes you to a standard Windows Save As dialog where you determine the path and filename for your microcomputer.  In this example, you would retrieve the CardConv 1.1 Cardfile to ASCII file entry.


View: Displays the file if it is a GIF or text file.  If the file is a GIF file, View takes you to a GIF Window.  If the file cannot be viewed, View will not be available and will be dimmed.


Close: Closes the dialog.


Retrieving Your Marked Library Files

The Retrieve Marked Files dialog retrieves the files you marked during your forum session.

You get here by choosing Retrieve Marked from the Library menu in a forum.

Related Information

Forums

Forum Libraries


The files you marked for retrieval are listed here.


Bytes Remaining  and  Time: Shows your file retrieval progress.


Disconnect when Done: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to automatically disconnect from CompuServe after downloading all marked files.


Retrieve All: Begins retrieval of all listed files.


Abstract: Displays a file abstract which summarizes the contents or purpose of the file.  Takes you to a File Information dialog.


Unmark: Removes the highlighted file from the list of files to be retrieved.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Searching for Library Files

The Search for Files dialog finds forum library files that match your search criteria.

You get here by clicking the Search icon for libraries at the Forum Toolbox or by choosing Search from the Library menu in a forum.

You can control whether certain information is displayed as you browse and search for files in a forum library, such as the file size, file name, or submission date, by setting the appropriate options in the Forum Preferences dialog.

Related Information

Browsing Library Files

Forum Libraries

Forum Preferences


In Sections: These are the forum's library sections.  Mark the sections you want to search.  If you want to search all sections, choose All.  If you want to unmark all sections, choose None.


File Name: If you know the name of the file you are looking for, type it here.


Contributer: If you know the User ID number of the person who contributed the file, type it here.


Keywords: If you can think of any words which might be associated with the file, type them here.  For example, if you were looking for files associated with the CONVMA 1.1 Cardfile to ASCII Conversion Utility, you might find it by typing any of the following keywords: CARDFILE; CARD; CARDCONV; CONVERSION; CONVMA; ASCII.  When searching for files by keywords, each word you specify must be part of the file's assigned keywords in order to find a match.


If the file you are looking for is older than this date, the search operation will not find it.


If the file you are looking for is newer than this date, the search operation will not find it.


All: Marks all library sections in the forum for searching.


None: Unmarks all library sections in the forum for searching.


Search: Begins the search.  Takes you to a File List dialog where you can view a list of files that match your search criteria.  If you choose Search without specifying File Name, Contributor, and Keywords information, the Information Manager displays a list of all files in the forum.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without conducting a search.


Browsing Library Sections

The Library Sections dialog lists the forum's library sections that you can browse.

You get to the Library Sections dialog by clicking the Browse icon for Libraries at the Forum Toolbox or by choosing Browse from the Library menu in a forum.

In order to see library section numbers, the Show Library Section Numbers option in the Forum Preferences dialog must be set.

Related Information

Forum Libraries

Forum Preferences

Searching for Library Files


Changing Your Member Interests

The Change Member Interests dialog gives you the opportunity to modify or create your personal profile information for other forum members.

You get here by choosing Change Member Entry from the Special menu in a forum.

Related Information

Discovering Member Interests

Forums

Forum Membership Interests

Learning About CompuServe Members


Interests: Type any interests you want to share with other forum members.  This is an excellent way to let others know who you really are.  You might have initially included this information when you became a member of the forum, at the Joining a Forum dialog.


OK: Records your changes and closes the dialog.


Delete: Erases your Interests information and closes the dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any any changes.


Searching for Forum Members

The Search for Member dialog finds other forum members who meet your search criteria.

You get here by choosing Search Membership from the Special menu in a forum.

Related Information

Finding CompuServe Members

Forum Membership Interests

Searching for CompuServe Members


User Name: Type the last name or full name of the member you want to learn about.  For example, if you wanted to learn more about Jackson Hunan, you should type Hunan or Jackson Hunan, but not J. Hunan or Hunan, Jackson.


User ID: Type the User ID number of the member if you know it.


Interests: Type one or more interests you want to search for.  Each word you specify must exist in the person's interests summary.  For example, if you type CATS, DOGS, ELEPHANTS, FISH, LIZARDS, INSECTS, you will find only members who have all six words mentioned in their interests summaries.


Search: Conducts the search.  Takes you to a Member Directory Search dialog, which lists forum members who meet your search criteria.  A member must have provided an interests summary in order to be included in the search.  Thus, you might not find all members of a forum using the Search for Member dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Searching for a Forum Message

The Search for messages matching dialog finds forum messages that match your search criteria.

You get here by clicking the Search icon for messages at the Forum Toolbox or by choosing Search from the Messages menu in a forum.

Related Information

Browsing Forum Message Sections

Browsing Forum Messages and Topics

Forum Messages

Retrieving Your Marked Messages


In Sections: These are the forum's message sections.  Unless you are searching for a message by its message number, you must mark the sections you want to search.  If you want to search all sections, choose All.  If you want to unmark all sections, choose None.


All: Marks all sections.  If you attempt to search for a message by its message number, All is not a valid selection and will be dimmed.


None: Unmarks all sections.  If you attempt to search for a message by its message number, None is not a valid selection and will be dimmed.


Type your search criteria information, such as a message subject, message number, sender or recipient User ID number.  In this example, since Subject has been selected, you would type a message subject.  When searching for messages by subject, each word you specify must be part of the respective topic wording in order to find a match.  If you are searching for a message by its message number, the number you type here must be a valid message number for the forum.  In this example, the message number would have to be greater than 150633 and less than 152149 in order for the Search button to be a valid selection.


Since: Specify the date of the oldest message you want included in the search.  In this example, all messages posted since February of 1992 will be searched.  The date specified at Since is not used and is dimmed when you attempt to search for a message by its message number.


Mark Results: Mark this if you want the messages turned up to be automatically identified, or marked, for later retrieval.


Search: Begins the search.  Takes you to a Message Topics dialog where you view a list of messages that match your search criteria.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Subject: Choose this if you want to search for messages by their respective topic wording.


Message Number: Choose this if you want to search for a message by its assigned message number..


From: Choose this if you want to search for messages from a particular User ID number.


To: Choose this if you want to search for messages sent to a particular User ID number.


Browsing Forum Message Sections

The Message Sections dialog lists the forum's message sections.  Pick the one you want to browse.

You get here by clicking the Browse icon for messages at the Forum Toolbox or by choosing Browse from the Messages menu in a forum.

Message section numbers will appear along with the section title if the Show Message Section Numbers option in the Forum Preferences dialog is set.

Related Information

Browsing Forum Messages and Topics

Forum Messages

Retrieving Marked Messages

Searching for a Forum Message

Setting the Oldest Message Date


These are all the message sections in the forum, along with the number of message topics and messages in each.


Select: Takes you to a Message Topics dialog that displays a list of message topics for the highlighted section.  In this example, you would see the message topics for the Program Manager section entry.


Mark: Identifies, or marks, a highlighted section for later retrieval.  In this example, the entire Program Manager section -- all 220 messages -- would be marked.


All: Marks all the message sections in the forum for later retrieval.


Close: Records your marking preferences and closes the dialog.


Discovering Message Relationships

The Message Map dialog shows you how a forum message is related to other messages in the same topic.  Any message to which there are replies is called a 'parent'; other replies to the same message are called 'siblings'.

The connecting lines in the Message Map dialog show you how the messages in a topic are related to each other.

You get to the Message Map dialog by choosing  [image] at a Forum Message or Message Topics dialog.

Related Information

Browsing Forum Messages and Topics

Forums

Searching for a Forum Message

Forum Messages


Retrieving Your Marked Messages

The Retrieve Marked Messages dialog retrieves the messages that you marked in your forum session.

You get here by choosing Retrieve Marked from the Messages menu in a forum.

Related Information

Forum Messages


The message sections and message topics that you marked for retrieval are listed here.  This example shows that four topics in the Windows 3.0 section of the WINNEW forum -- WININI HELP, Memory Page Fault Error, Zap Unwanted Files, and Won't Run in 386 mode -- have been marked for retrieval, as well as additional topics in the Windows Accessories section.  If an entire message section has been marked for retrieval, you will see { all topics } under Topic.


Disconnect When Done: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to disconnect you from CompuServe after the final message has been retrieved.


Get All: Begins retrieval of all your marked messages into your Filing Cabinet.  Unless an appropriate folder already exists, the Information Manager creates a folder for the retrieved messages and names it after the forum.  In this example, the messages will be retrieved to a Windows New Users (WINNEW) folder in your Filing Cabinet.


Unmark: Removes the highlighted message topic from the list of messages to be retrieved.  If you unmark a topic by mistake that you still want, you can choose the Cancel button, and then the Retrieve Marked command again.


OK: Records your changes and closes the dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any of your changes.


Browsing Forum Messages and Topics

The Message Topics dialog lists all the topics in a forum message section.

There are many ways to get here.

Related Information

Forums

Forum Messages

Message Map


These are the message topics that make up the particular message section.  In this example, the name of the message section is Program Manager.  You can mark any message topic you wish to store in your Filing Cabinet.


Get: Takes you to a Forum Message dialog where you see the first message in the highlighted topic.  In this example, you would view the first message in the ProgMan & Win.Ini topic entry.


Map: Enables you to learn the parent, child, and sibling relationships between messages in a topic.  Takes you to a Message Map dialog.


Mark: Identifies the highlighted topic for later retrieval.  In this example, the ProgMan & Win.Ini topic entry would be marked.


Close: Records your marking preferences and closes the dialog.


Joining a Forum

The Joining a Forum dialog tells you a little bit about the forum and gives you the opportunity to become a member.  You must join a forum in order to post messages on the forum's message board, contribute and retrieve library files, and engage in forum conferences.

You see this dialog when you access a forum you aren't a member of, or when you choose Join Forum from the Special menu in a forum.

Related Information

Changing Your Member Interests

Forum Membership Interests


This introductory text tells you something of the purpose and flavor of the forum, usually including the names and User ID numbers of the members in charge of the forum.


Name: Type your actual name rather than a nickname or handle.  By default,  the name that you specified at Your Name in your Session Settings dialog initially appears here.  You cannot join a forum unless Name is filled in.


Interests: If you like, type any interests or objectives that you would like to share with other forum members.  This is an excellent way to let others know who you really are.  You can leave this blank if you want.


Join: Enrolls you as a member of the forum.  You must have a name specified at Name before you can select this.  Once you become a member, you receive full membership privileges, such as being able to post and reply to messages on the message board and contribute and retrieve files from the forum libraries.


Leave: Takes you back to where you were before you accessed the forum.


Visit: Allows you to explore the forum without becoming a member.  As a visitor you can only view messages and review library files.  You must become a member of the forum to post messages, contribute and retrieve library files, and participate in conferences.


Setting the Oldest Message Date

The Set First Message Date dialog determines how many messages you will be able to read in a forum.  The date and time that you assign becomes the starting point for forum message browses and searches.

You get here by choosing Set Date from the Messages menu in a forum.

If you prefer, you can use a message number, rather than a date and time, as the starting point for forum message browses and searches, by assigning the message number at the Forum Options dialog.

Related Information

Browsing Forum Message Sections

Browsing Forum Messages and Topics

Forum Messages

Searching for a Forum Message


Date: Type the date you want to be the starting date for forum message browses and searches.  Only messages posted after that date will be available for browsing and searching.  By default, Date will be the date of the newest message read during your last visit to the forum.  Thus, if you enter a forum several times a day, you will scan only the most recent messages when you browse or search messages unless you modify Date to be an older (earlier) date.


Time: Type the time you want to be the starting time for forum message browses and searches.  Only messages posted after that time on the date specified at Date will be available for browsing and searching.  By default, Time will be the time of the newest message read during your last visit to the forum.


OK: Records your changes and closes the dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any changes.


Reading and Processing a Forum Message

The Forum Message dialog displays a forum message.

You get here by choosing  [image] at a Message Topics or Message Map dialog.

Related Information

Address Book

Filing Cabinet

Forum Messages

Replying to a Message


To: Takes you to an Add to Address Book dialog where you can add recipient information to your Address Book.


From: Takes you to an Add to Address Book dialog where you can add sender information to your Address Book.


Each message is assigned a unique message number.  In this example, 150910 is the message number.  This dialog tells you whether there are any replies to a message -- this example shows that there is one reply -- and whether the message is part of a topic -- this example shows that the message is the second of six.  The Program Manager: ProgMan and Win.Ini caption for the dialog means that the message is part of the ProgMan and Win.Ini topic in the Program Manager section of the forum.


Topic: If there are other topics remaining to be browsed in the message section, Topic takes you to the first message in the next topic.  If you are in the final topic for a message section, Topic is not a valid selection and is dimmed.


Map: Enables you to learn the parent, child, and sibling relationships between messages in a topic.  Takes you to a Message Map dialog.


File It: Takes you to a Filing Cabinet dialog where you can store a copy of the message in your Filing Cabinet.


Reply: Takes you to a Reply dialog where you can compose and send a reply to the message author.


Delete: Removes the message from the forum message board.  You can delete only messages that you compose.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


More: If there is more of the message to be viewed than is showing, More displays the next page.  If there is no more of the message to be viewed, but there is another message remaining to be read in the message topic, More displays that message.  If there are no more messages in the topic, but there are additional topics, More displays the first message in the next topic; otherwise More is not a valid selection and is dimmed.


:  Takes you to the previous message in the topic.  If you are at the first message in the topic, this arrow is not a valid selection and is dimmed.


:  Takes you to the parent of the message -- the message to which this message is a reply.


: Takes you to the next message in the topic.  If you are at the final message in the topic, this arrow is not a valid selection and is dimmed.


Forum Options

The Forum Options dialog helps you customize your forum session.  You can specify a different set of Forum Options for each forum you join.

You get here by choosing Forum Options from the Special menu in a forum.

Related Information

Forums

Forum Preferences

Joining a Forum

Setting the Oldest Message Date


User Name: Enter your forum name here.  It is best to use your actual name, rather than a nickname.  User Name cannot be blank.  By default, the name that initially appears here is the same one you specified when you joined the forum.  When you create a forum message in a forum, the name specified at User Name is used as the sender name.


Last Message: Type the message number you wish to use as the starting message for message browses and searches for the remainder of your forum session.  By default, Last Message will usually be the highest-numbered message you read during your last visit to the forum.  If all the messages you read before are gone, Last Message will be one less than the number of the earliest remaining message.  If you want to limit the number of messages available for browsing and searching even more, you can set the oldest message date for your forum session (see Related Information).


Permanent: Mark this if you want your option changes to be in effect each time you enter the forum.


Set: Records any changes and closes the dialog.  You must have a name specified at User Name before you can choose this.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any changes.


Modem Control Settings

The Modem Control Strings dialog displays your current modem parameters so that you can review or modify them.

You get here by choosing Modem Settings from the Special menu on the Initial Desktop.

Related Information

Control Characters

Logon Parameters and Timeout Settings

Session Settings


Modem:   Highlight your modem type in the list provided.  If your modem type is not in the list, highlight Other.


Initialize: Type your modem's initialization command string (up to 80 characters).  If you highlight a modem in the list provided at Modem, the Information Manager automatically fills in that modem's initialization command string.


Prefix: Make sure that this is the correct prefix string.  Also known as the attention command.


Dial Tone: Make sure that this is the correct string to initiate tone dialing.


Reset: Make sure that this is the correct string to reset the modem.


Escape: Make sure that this is the correct string to issue an Escape command.


Connect: Make sure that this is the correct string or phrase to be displayed when connection is established.


Speaker Off: Mark this if you desire a silent operation (no dial tone, dialing, and connection sounds during logon) of a Hayes-compatible modem.


Suffix: Make sure that this is the correct string to terminate a command.


Dial Pulse: Make sure that this is the correct string to initiate pulse dialing.


Hang Up: Make sure that this is the correct string to free the telephone line.


Acknowledge: Make sure that this is the correct string or phrase to be displayed when connection is established.


Failure: Make sure that this is the correct string to or phrase to be displayed when there is no connection or the signal stops.


OK: Records any changes you make and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any of your changes.


 Control Characters

Some modems require control characters in their control strings.  The Information Manager's notation for a control character is a caret circumflex (^) followed by the control character letter.

For example, ^M is the notation for Control-M, or carriage return.


General Preferences

The General Preferences dialog displays your current Information Manager Initial Desktop options and preferences so that you can review or modify them.

You get here by choosing Preferences from the Special menu on any Information Manager desktop, and then choosing General from the Preferences submenu.

Related Information

Browsing Services

Function Key Settings

Grouping Your Favorite Services

Out-Basket

Preferences


About Box: Mark this if you want the About Box dialog to be displayed each time you start the Information Manager.


Browse: Mark this if you want the Services window of CompuServe Service icons to be displayed each time you start the Information Manager.


Favorite Places: Mark this if you want the Favorite Places dialog to be displayed each time you start the Information Manager.


Prompt for Unsent Messages: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to remind you to send any Mail in your Out-Basket before you exit, or to send any forum messages that are in your Out-Basket each time you leave a forum.


Set Function Keys: Takes you to a Function Key Settings dialog where you can assign a sequence of keystrokes to your function keys.


Support: Type the directory in which you want to store the Information Manager's support files, such as where you want to store the Filing Cabinet and Address Book.


Scripts: Type the directory in which you want to store the Information Manager's script files.  The Information Manager provides a number of these files which contain commands to automate routine functions such as connection and disconnection from CompuServe.  You can learn more about scripts in the WinCIM Support Forum on CompuServe.


GIF: Type the directory in which you want to store any GIF files you download.  GIF files are graphics files that you can view and find in some forums and services on CompuServe.  For example, certain weather maps are GIF files.


OK: Records your changes and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without making any of your changes.


Cabinet: Type the directory in which you want to store your Filing Cabinet files.


Fonts: Takes you to a Fonts dialog where you can modify the fonts the Information Manager uses to display information on your monitor.


Help: Displays this help page.


Changing Your Display Font

The Fonts dialog gives you some font-related options with respect to the way the Information Manager displays text on your screen.

You get here by choosing [image] at the General Preferences dialog.

Related Information

Preferences

Settings


Dialogs: Mark this to select a font for items in WinCIM dialog boxes.


Listbox Fixed: Mark this to select a font for list menus displayed by the Information Manager.


Editbox: Mark this to select the font for Information Manager text boxes when a proportional font is required.


Editbox Fixed: Mark this to select the font for Information Manager text boxes when a fixed font is required.


Printer: Mark this to select a font for printing text that is displayed in a proportional font.


Printer Fixed: Mark this to select a font for printing text that is displayed in a fixed font.


Terminal: Mark this to select the font to be used when in Terminal Emulation.


Select: Takes you to a standard Windows Font dialog where you can select a font, style, size, and so forth.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Mail Preferences

The Mail Preferences dialog displays your current Mail options and preferences so that you can review or modify them.

You get here by choosing Preferences from the Special menu on any Information Manager desktop, and then choosing Mail from the Preferences submenu.

Related Information

CompuServe Mail

Filing Cabinet

In-Basket

Opening Your CompuServe Mailbox

Out-Basket

Preferences


Delete Retrieved Mail: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to automatically delete Mail messages from your online mailbox after you read them or retrieve them to your In-Basket.


File Outgoing Messages: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to automatically save copies of all outgoing Mail messages to the specified Filing Cabinet folder.  In this example, Auto-Filed is the name of the specified Filing Cabinet folder.


OK: Records your changes and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any of your changes.


Help: Displays this help page.


Changing Your Conference Nickname

The Change Nickname dialog shows your current conference nickname so that you can modify it.

You get to the Change Nickname dialog by choosing Set Nickname from the Conference menu in a forum.

Modify the information at Nickname to reflect the name by which you wish to be known.  Then choose OK.  The Information Manager will record your change immediately.

Your nickname may have a maximum of 19 characters, but may not contain asterisks (*), pound signs (#), or braces ({}).  Your nickname may contain embedded spaces, but CompuServe removes leading or trailing spaces.  For example, Jackson_Hunan and Jackson Hunan are both valid nicknames.  A nickname cannot be obscene or offensive to the average person.

Related Information

Conference Preferences

Forums

Forum Conferences

Forum Preferences


Nickname: Type the name you want to be known by in forum conferences.


OK: Records your change and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Nulifies your change and closes this dialog.


Removing Forum Information

The Forum Databases dialog lists the forums you access.

When you join a forum, the Information Manager stores information about that forum in a database on your computer.  Subsequently, the Information Manager updates the information whenever you access the forum.  This information includes message section names and library names and numbers.  The Information Manager uses it to get you into the forum faster and more efficiently.

If you suspect that the information (about a forum) in the database is wrong, you can delete it by highlighting it and choosing Delete.

Related Information

Forums

Forum Options

Forum Preferences


Forum Preferences

The Forum Preferences dialog displays your current Forum Desktop preferences so that you can review or modify them.

You get here by choosing Preferences from the Special menu on any Information Manager desktop, and then choosing Forums from the Preferences submenu.

Related Information

Browsing Forum Message Sections

Browsing Library Files

Forums

Forum Options

Forum Toolbox

Setting the Oldest Message Date


Nickname: Type the name you want to be known by in forum conferences.  If you leave this field blank, you will be known by the name you use when you join the forum.


Show Flash News: Mark this if you want to have important forum news and events bulletins displayed as they are posted.


Show Toolbox: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to display the Forum Toolbox each time you enter a forum.


Show Message Section Numbers: Mark this if you want to see message section numbers displayed next to message section names when browsing message sections.


Show Library Section Numbers: Mark this if you want to see library section numbers displayed next to library section names when browsing library files.


Always Ask for File Name: Mark this if you want to be able to specify a file name when marking library files in a forum.  If Always Ask for File Name is not marked, the Information Manager uses the default file name unless there is a conflict.


OK: Records your changes and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes this dialog without making any of your changes.


Help: Displays this help page.


Download Directory: Type the subdirectory you want your downloaded forum messages and library files to be placed in when you retrieve them.


Title: Mark this if you want the title of the file (rather than the file name) to be displayed when your browse or search forum library files.


File Name: Mark this if you want the file name (rather than the title of the file) to be displayed when your browse or search forum library files.


File Size: Mark this if you want the number of characters in the file to be displayed when browsing or searching for library files.


Access Count: Mark this if you want the number of accesses of the file to be displayed when browsing or searching for library files.


Submission Date: Mark this if you want the date the file was contributed to be displayed when browsing or searching for library files.


Submitter's ID: Mark this if you want the User ID number of the person who contributed the file to be displayed when browsing or searching for library files.


More...: Takes you to a Conference Preferences dialog where you can assign forum conferencing-related options.


ENS Preferences

The ENS Preferences dialog displays your current ENS Desktop options and preferences so that you can review or modify them.

You get here by choosing Preferences from the Special menu on any Information Manager desktop, and then choosing Executive News from the Preferences submenu.

Related Information

ENS Toolbox

Executive News Service

Preferences

Retrieving Marked ENS Stories

Selecting Folders


Show Folders: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to automatically display the Select Folder dialog on the ENS desktop each time you access ENS.


Show Toolbox: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to display the ENS Toolbox each time you enter ENS.


Delete Retrieved Stories: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to remove a story from a Personal Folder if you retrieve, or download, the story.


OK: Records your changes and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any of your changes.


Help: Displays this help page.


CB Preferences

The CB Preferences dialog displays your current CB Desktop options and preferences so that you can review or modify them.

You get here by choosing Preferences from the Special menu on any Information Manager desktop, and then choosing CB Simulator from the Preferences submenu.

Related Information

CB Simulator

CB Toolbox

Change Handle

Inviting People to a Private Group

Maintaining a Friends List

Preferences

Speaking Privately with Just One Person


Handle: Type the name by which you wish to be known in CB.  If you do not specify a handle here, you will be asked to create one when you access a CB band.  Your handle may have a maximum of 19 characters, but may not contain asterisks (*), pound signs (#), or braces ({}).  Your handle may contain embedded spaces, but CompuServe removes leading or trailing spaces.  For example, Truckin_HOBO and The Truckin HOBO are both valid handles.  A handle cannot be obscene or offensive to the average person.


People Entering: Mark this to track handles of persons entering CB while you are in CB.  Such information is displayed in a Tracking Window for you.


People Leaving: Mark this to track handles of persons leaving CB while you are in CB.  Such information is displayed in a Tracking Window for you.


Switching Locations: Mark this to track handles of persons leaving or entering channels in CB while you are in CB.  Such information is displayed in a Tracking Window for you.


Changing Handles: Mark this to track information about persons changing their handles in CB while you are in CB.  Such information is displayed in a Tracking Window for you.


Only Friends: Mark this to restrict each of the other Track options to display information only about persons considered to be friends status by you, as designated in your Update Group dialog.  Such information is displayed in a Tracking Window for you.


Show Toolbox: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to automatically display the CB Toolbox each time you access the CB Simulator.


Accept: Select this if you want to receive invitiations to participate in group conversations with other CBers.  If Accept is not selected, any invitations sent to you will not be displayed on your screen.


Ignore: Select this if you do not want to be bothered by invitiations to participate in group conversations with other CBers.  If Ignore is selected, any invitations sent to you will not be displayed on your screen.


Accept: Select this if you want to receive invitations to participate in private one-on-one talks with other CBers.  In a private talk, only you and the other CBer with whom you are talking can see the conversation.   If Accept is not selected, any invitations sent to you by another CBer will not be displayed on your screen.


Ignore: Select this if you do not want to be bothered by invitations to participate in private one-on-one talks with other CBers.  In a private talk, only you and the other CBer with whom you are talking can see the conversation.  If Ignore is selected, any invitations for private talks sent to you by another CBer will not be displayed on your screen.


OK: Records your changes and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any of your changes.


Help: Displays this help page.


Channel:  Mark this if you want the Information Manager to create a text file of the conversation on a channel whenever you are on the channel.


Group:  Mark this if you want the Information Manager to create a text file of the conversation in a group whenever you are in the group.


Terminal Emulation Preferences

The Terminal Preferences dialog controls the size of your Terminal Emulation capture buffer.

You get here by choosing Preferences from the Special menu on any Information Manager desktop, and then choosing Terminal Emulation from the Preferences submenu.

Related Information

Connecting Using Terminal Emulation

Preferences


Number of Buffer Lines: Type the number of lines you want the Information Manager to allot in its capture buffer before starting to overwrite them.  You must specify a value of 20 or greater.


OK: Records your changes and closes this dialog.  You will not be able to choose OK and it will be dimmed unless the value specified at Number of Buffer Lines is 20 or greater.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any of your changes.


Strip High Bit: Mark or unmark this only if you are experiencing difficulty with your display in ENS.  For example, if the characters appear garbled or if various international characters are not displayed properly, marking or unmarking Strip High Bit might correct the problem.


Function Key Settings

The Function Key Settings dialog customizes your Information Manager session.  You can assign a series of keystrokes or commands that you use frequently to up to ten Alt key combinations.

There are many ways to get here.

Related Information

CB Simulator

Preferences

Settings

Terminal Emulation


Alt+1,Alt+2, ... Alt+0: These represent the Alt key combinations to which you can assign keystrokes.  Whenever you are at the Terminal Emulation Desktop, you can click the corresponding Alt key representations at the bottom of your screen or type the Alt key combination.


Type the sequence of keystrokes you wish to automate.  Type ^M for a carriage return, and ^J for a new line.  For example, you could assign this to the Alt+4 Function key combination:  Morning, all!  Anybody up for a chat? ^M^J  Once assigned, you could send that greeting each time you entered a channel in CB simply by pressing or clicking Alt+4.  Similarly, you could assign EF OH ^M^J to the Alt+5 key combination in order to automate requesting an extended weather forecast for Ohio in the Weather service.


OK: Records your settings and closes this dialog.


Help: Displays this help page.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any of your changes.


Changing Your CB Handle

The Change Handle dialog displays your current CB handle so that you can modify it.

You get to the Change Handle dialog by clicking the Change Handle icon on the CB Toolbox or by choosing Change Handle from the Special menu in CB.

Type your new handle and click OK.  The Information Manager will record your change immediately.

Your handle may have a maximum of 19 characters, but may not contain asterisks (*), pound signs (#), or braces ({}).  Your handle may contain embedded spaces, but CompuServe removes leading or trailing spaces.  For example, Truckin_Hobo and The Truckin Hobo are both valid handles.  A handle cannot be obscene or offensive to the average person.

You will be prompted for a handle each time you access CB unless you specify one in the CB Preferences dialog or have a reserved handle.

Related Information

CB Preferences

CB Simulator


This is the Change Handle icon.  You'll find it on the CB Toolbox.  It takes you to this dialog.


Session Settings

The Session Settings dialog shows your current connection information, such as your User ID number or baud rate, so that you can review or modify it.

You get here by choosing Session Settings from the Special menu on the Initial Desktop.

Related Information

Settings


Your Name: Type your real name as opposed to your handle or nickname.


Primary Network: Highlight the network you want the Information Manager to use first to connect to CompuServe.  If you select Direct under Dial Type, there is no need to specify a network, and the list arrow for Primary Network will be dimmed.


Baud Rate: Highlight the baud rate you wish to use in your Primary Connection.  Make sure your modem supports the baud rate you choose.


Retries: Type the number of times your modem will attempt to redial if the first attempt fails in your Primary Connection.  A reasonable value is 10.  If you select Direct under Dial Type, there is no need to specify retries and Retries will be dimmed.


Phone: Type the CompuServe local access telephone number to be used to connect to CompuServe.


Session: If you have multiple Session Settings sets and want to use a specific set, highlight the name of the set.  To add a set to the Session list, type a name for the set at Session; then complete the dialog.  When you press OK, the Information Manager will record your information in the Session list.


User ID: Type your User ID number if you were already a member when you installed the Information Manager.  If you are a new member, use the User ID number you received during the signup process until you receive your permanent User ID number.


Password: Type your CompuServe password.  This is optional.  If you do not type a password in Session Settings, the Information Manager will prompt you for it when you attempt to connect to CompuServe.  You cannot see your password in Session Settings.


Secondary Network: Highlight the network you want the Information Manager to use to connect to CompuServe if the Primary Network is not available.  If you select Direct under Dial Type, there is no need to specify a network, and the list arrow for Secondary Network will be dimmed.


Baud Rate: Highlight the baud rate you wish to use in your Secondary Connection.  Make sure your modem supports the baud rate you choose.


Retries: Type the number of times your modem will attempt to redial if the first attempt fails in your Secondary Connection.  A reasonable value is 10.  If you select Direct under Dial Type, there is no need to specify retries and Retries will be dimmed.


Phone: CompuServe local access telephone number to be used to connect to CompuServe.


Connector: Highlight the communications port on your microcomputer to which your modem is attached.  Most microcomputers utilize COM1, although some laptops utilize COM2.


Tone: Select this if you want to use tone dialing.  Tone dialing sounds like a touchtone telephone.


Pulse: Select this if you want to use pulse dialing.  Pulse dialing sounds like a rotary telephone.


Direct: Select this only if your microcomputer is hard-wired to another computer system which provides the connection for you.


OK: Saves your changes and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without saving any of your changes.


More: Takes you to a dialog where you can specify the number of seconds the Information Manager will wait for a response from CompuServe before cancelling a command, as well as additional logon information that might be necessary for your network.


Conference Preferences

The Conference Preferences dialog displays your current forum conferencing-related options and preferences so that you can review or modify them.

You get here by choosing [image] from the Forum Preferences dialog.

Related Information

Changing Your Conference Nickname

Forums

Forum Options

Inviting Members to a Private Group

Participating in Open Conversation


Nickname: Type the name you want to be known by in forum conferences.  If you leave this field blank, you will be known by the name you use when you join the forum.


People Entering: Mark this to be able to track persons entering a forum conference while you are in the forum.  Such information is displayed in a small tracking window for you.


People Leaving: Mark this to be able to track persons leaving a forum conference while you are in the forum.  Such information is displayed in a small tracking window for you.


Switching Locations: Mark this to be able to track persons leaving or entering conference rooms in a forum while you are in the forum.  Such information is displayed in a small tracking window for you.


Changing Nicknames: Mark this to be able to view information about persons changing their nicknames in forum conferences while you are in the forum.  Such information is displayed in a small tracking window for you.


Accept: Select this if you want to receive invitiations to participate in group conversations with other forum members also in the forum.  If Accept is not selected, any invitations sent to you will not be displayed on your screen.


Ignore: Select this if you do not want to be bothered by invitiations to participate in group conversations with other forum members also in the forum.  If Ignore is selected, any invitations sent to you will not be displayed on your screen.


Accept: Select this if you want to receive invitations to participate in private talks with other forum members also in the forum.  If Accept is not selected, any invitations sent to you by another forum member will not be displayed on your screen.


Ignore: Select this if you do not want to be bothered by invitations to participate in private talks with other forum members also in the forum.  If Ignore is selected, any invitations sent to you by another forum member will not be displayed on your screen.


OK: Records your changes and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any of your changes.


Help: Displays this help page.


Room:  Mark this if you wish to make a text file of the conversation in a conference room whenever you are in the room.


Group:  Mark this if you wish to make a text file of the conversation in a group whenever you are in the group.


Selecting Channels

The Channel Selector dialog displays all the channels on your CB band.  You can monitor or tune to a channel.  You can also learn who is on what channel.

You get here by choosing Channels! from the menu bar in CB.

Related Information

CB Simulator

Learning Who Is on CB

Monitoring a Conversation

Participating in Open Conversation

Scanning the CB Population

Tracking People


Highlight the channel you are interested in.  The channel name will appear in the upper lefthand corner of the dialog; the number of people on that channel will appear in the upper righthand corner.  To view or participate in a conversation on the highlighted channel,  choose Tune or Monitor.


Tune: Takes you to a Conversation dialog where you can converse on the highlighted channel.  In this example, you would tune to Channel 1.


Monitor: Takes you to a Monitoring dialog where you can listen in on the highlighted channel.  In this example, you would monitor Channel 1.  If you want to converse on a channel, choose Tune rather than Monitor.


Who: Shows you who is on CB.  Takes you to a Who's Here dialog.


Status: Displays the current CB channel population.  Takes you to a Total Users dialog.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Invite

Please click on the environment you are interested in: a forum conference or CB.


Ignore and Squelch

Please click on the environment you are interested in: a forum conference or CB.


Who's Here

Please click on the environment you are interested in: a forum conference or CB.


Learning Who Is in a Forum

The Who's Here dialog shows you who else is in a forum so you can view profile information or initiate a private conversation with another member.

You get here by clicking the Who's Here icon at the Forum Toolbox or by choosing Who's Here from the Conference menu in a forum.

Related Information

Forum Conferences

Discovering Member Interests

Speaking Privately with Just One Person

Inviting People to a Private Group


Name: Select this if you want to see a list of names rather than User ID numbers.


User ID: Select this if you want to see a list of User ID numbers rather than names.


All: Select this if you want the list to include everyone in the forum.


Room: Select this if you want the list to include only those persons in a particular conference room.  The conference room number is specified in the box to the right of Room.  However, in this example, there is no number in the box because All, rather than Room, has been selected.


Type the conference room number in this box if you select Room.


Group: Select this if you are participating in a private group conversation and want the list to include only the group's members.  If you are not in a private group, Group will be dimmed.


Only Friends: Mark this if you wish to restrict the list to only those people in your Update Group dialog Friends list.


Freeze: Stops the Information Manager from updating the list.  This is useful if conference activity is extremely high.  If you choose Freeze, the Freeze button will change to Unfreeze; then choose Unfreeze for the Information Manager to resume updating the list.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


These are the names of the people in the forum.  Highlight the name of any person you wish to talk with or learn more about.


Mark these checkboxes to identify who you want to invite to join a group.


Profile: Gives you personal information about the highlighted member.  Takes you to a User Profile dialog.  In this example, you would view a profile for the Joe Annt entry.


Talk: Takes you to a Talk dialog where you can converse with the highlighted member.  In this example, you would converse with Joe Annt.


Miscellaneous information: Gives you some information about the highlighted user, such as the User ID number and job number, where the user is connecting to CompuServe from, and where the user happens to be (L, for example, means the user is in the lobby).


Inviting People to a Private Group

The Invite dialog shows you who else is in the forum so you can invite one or more members to participate in a private group conversation.

You get here by clicking the Invite icon at the Forum Toolbox or by choosing Invite from the Conference menu in a forum.

If you want to be able to see group invitations sent by others to you, the Accept option for Invitations in the Conference Preferences dialog must be set.

Related Information

Forums

Forum Conferences

Speaking Privately with Just One Person


Name: Select this if you want to see a list of names rather than User ID numbers.


User ID: Select this if you want to see a list of User ID numbers rather than names.


All: Select this if you want the list to include everyone in the forum.


Room: Select this if you want the list to include only those persons in a particular conference room.  The conference room number is specified in the box to the right of Room.  However, in this example, there is no number in the box because All, rather than Room, has been selected.


Type the conference room number in this box if you select Room.


Group: Select this if you are participating in a private group conversation and want the list to include only the group's members.  If you are not in a private group, Group will be dimmed.


Only Friends: Mark this if you wish to restrict the list to only those people in your Update Group dialog Friends list.


Freeze: Stops the Information Manager from updating the list.  This is useful if conference activity is extremely high.  If you choose Freeze, the Freeze button will change to Unfreeze; then choose Unfreeze for the Information Manager to resume updating the list.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


These are the names of the people in the forum or the handles of the people on CB.


Mark these checkboxes to identify who you want to invite to join a group.


Invite: Sends an invitation to everyone marked in your list.  Takes you to a Room dialog.  In this example,  Felix Casper, Steggi Reynolds, and Buzz Zacutti have been marked to receive an invitation to join your group.


Miscellaneous information: Gives you some information about the highlighted user, such as the User ID number and job number, where the user is connecting to CompuServe from, and where the user happens to be (L, for example, means the user is in the lobby).


Ignoring a Person

The Ignore dialog shows you who else is in the forum so you can identify one or more members that you wish to ignore.  Comments from ignored users are not displayed on your screen.

You get here by clicking the Ignore icon at the Forum Toolbox or by choosing Ignore from the Conference menu in a forum.

Related Information

Forum Conferences

Learning Who Is in a Forum

Discovering Member Interests

Speaking Privately with Just One Person

Inviting People to a Private Group


Name: Select this if you want to see a list of names rather than User ID numbers.


User ID: Select this if you want to see a list of User ID numbers rather than names.


All: Select this if you want the list to include everyone in the forum.


Room: Select this if you want the list to include only those persons in a particular conference room.  The conference room number is specified in the box to the right of Room.  However, in this example, there is no number in the box because All, rather than Room, has been selected.


Type the conference room number in this box if you select Room.


Group: Select this if you are participating in a private group conversation and want the list to include only the group's members.  If you are not in a private group, Group will be dimmed.


Only Friends: Mark this if you wish to restrict the list to friends (those persons specified on your Friends list).


Freeze: Stops the Information Manager from updating the list.  This is useful if conference activity is extremely high.  If you choose Freeze, the Freeze button will change to Unfreeze; then choose Unfreeze for the Information Manager to resume updating the list.


Cancel: Closes this dialog without changing your Ignore list.


These are the names of the people in the forum.


Mark these checkboxes to identify who you want to ignore.


Ignore: Prevents comments issued by anyone marked in your list from displaying on your screen.  Closes this dialog.  In this example, comments from Felix Casper, Steggi Reynolds, and Buzz Zacutti will not be displayed on your screen.


Miscellaneous information: Gives you some information about the highlighted user, such as the User ID number and job number, where the user is connecting to CompuServe from, and where the user happens to be (L, for example, means the user is in the lobby).


Learning Who Is on CB

The Who's Here dialog shows you who else is on your CB band so you can view profile information and initiate a private conversation with another member.

There are many ways to get here.

Related Information

CB Simulator

Inviting People to a Private Group

Maintaining a Friends List

Reading a User Profile

Scanning the CB Population

Speaking Privately with Just One Person

Squelching a Person


Handle: Select this if you want to see a list of handles rather than User ID numbers.


User ID: Select this if you want to see a list of User ID numbers rather than handles.


All: Select this if you want the list to include everyone in CB.


Chan: Select this if you want the list to include only those persons on a particular channel.  The channel number is specified in the box to the right of Chan.  However, in this example, there is no number in the box because All, rather than Chan, has been selected.


Type the channel number in this box if you select Chan.


Group: Select this if you are participating in a private group conversation and want the list to include only the group's members.  If you are not in a private group, Group will be dimmed.


Only Friends: Mark this if you wish to restrict the list to only those people in your Update Group dialog Friends list.


Freeze: Stops the Information Manager from updating the list.  This is useful if CB activity is extremely high.  If you choose Freeze, the Freeze button will change to Unfreeze; then choose Unfreeze for the Information Manager to resume updating the list.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


These are the handles of the people on CB.


Mark these checkboxes to identify who you want to invite to join a group.


Profile: Gives you personal information about the highlighted member.  Takes you to a User Profile dialog.  In this example, you would see a profile for the *bLaZe* entry.


Talk: Takes you to a Talk dialog where you can converse with the highlighted member.  In this example, you would converse with *bLaZe*.


Miscellaneous information: Gives you some information about the highlighted user, such as the User ID number and job number, where the user is connecting to CompuServe from, and where the user happens to be (L, for example, means the user is in the lobby).


Inviting People to a Private Group

The Invite dialog shows you who else is on your CB band so you can invite one or more members to participate in a private group conversation.

You get here by clicking the Invite icon at the CB Toolbox or by choosing Invite from the People menu in CB.

If you want to be able to see group invitations sent by others to you, the Accept option for Invitations in the CB Preferences dialog must be set.

Related Information

CB Preferences

CB Simulator

Learning Who Is on CB

Maintaining a Friends List

Participating in Open Conversation

Speaking Privately with Just One Person

Squelching a Person


Handle: Select this if you want to see a list of handles rather than User ID numbers.


User ID: Select this if you want to see a list of User ID numbers rather than handles.


All: Select this if you want the list to include everyone in CB.


Chan: Select this if you want the list to include only those persons on a particular channel.  The channel number is specified in the box to the right of Chan.  However, in this example, there is no number in the box because All, rather than Chan, has been selected.


Type the channel number in this box if you select Chan.


Group: Select this if you are participating in a private group conversation and want the list to include only the group's members.  If you are not in a private group, Group will be dimmed.


Only Friends: Mark this if you wish to restrict the list to only those people in your Update Group dialog Friends list.


Freeze: Stops the Information Manager from updating the list.  This is useful if CB activity is extremely high.  If you choose Freeze, the Freeze button will change to Unfreeze; then choose Unfreeze for the Information Manager to resume updating the list.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


These are the handles of the people on CB.


Mark these checkboxes to identify who you want to invite to join a group.


Invite: Sends an invitation to everyone marked in your list.  Takes you to a Conversation dialog.  In this example, *Drifter*, *emerald eyes*, and *Natural Woman* have been marked and would receive an invitation to join your group.


Miscellaneous information: Gives you some information about the highlighted user, such as the User ID number and job number, where the user is connecting to CompuServe from, and where the user happens to be (L, for example, means the user is in the lobby).


Squelching a Person

The Squelch dialog shows you who else is on your CB band so you can identify one or more members that you wish to ignore.  Comments from squelched users are not displayed on your screen.

You get here by clicking the Squelch icon at the CB Toolbox or by choosing Squelch from the People menu in CB.

Related Information

CB Simulator

Changing Your Handle

Inviting People to a Private Group

Learning Who Is on CB

Maintaining a Friends List

Speaking Privately with Just One Person


Handle: Select this if you want to see a list of handles rather than User ID numbers.


User ID: Select this if you want to see a list of User ID numbers rather than handles.


All: Select this if you want the list to include everyone in CB.


Chan: Select this if you want the list to include only those persons on a particular channel.  The channel number is specified in the box to the right of Chan.  However, in this example, there is no number in the box because All, rather than Chan, has been selected.


Type the channel number in this box if you select Chan.


Group: Select this if you are participating in a private group conversation and want the list to include only the group's members.  If you are not in a private group, Group will be dimmed.


Not Friends: Mark this if you wish to exclude people in your Update Group dialog Friends list from being displayed in this dialog.


Freeze: Stops the Information Manager from updating the list.  This is useful if CB activity is extremely high.  If you choose Freeze, the Freeze button will change to Unfreeze; then choose Unfreeze for the Information Manager to resume updating the list.


Cancel: Closes this dialog without changing your Squelch list.


These are the handles of the people on CB.


Mark these checkboxes to identify who you want to squelch.


Squelch: Prevents comments issued by anyone marked in your list from displaying on your screen.  Closes this dialog.  In this example, none of the handles in the list have been marked.


Miscellaneous information: Gives you some information about the highlighted user, such as the User ID number and job number, where the user is connecting to CompuServe from, and where the user happens to be (L, for example, means the user is in the lobby).


Participating in Open Conversation

The Conversation dialog presents the online conversation in a forum conference room or on a CB channel.  This example shows a conversation taking place on a CB channel.

There are many ways to get here.

Related CB Information

CB Simulator

Changing Your Handle

Inviting People to a Private Group

Learning Who Is on CB

Maintaining a Friends List

Monitoring a Conversation

Reading a User Profile

Speaking Privately with Just One Person

Squelching a Person

Tracking People

Related Forum Information

Ignoring a Person

Changing Your Nickname

Forum Conferences

Inviting People to a Private Group

Learning Who Is in a Forum

Monitoring a Conversation

Discovering Member Interests

Speaking Privately with Just One Person


These are the nicknames or handles of the people conversing.  *SYSTEM* is not a person, but refers to a message displayed by CompuServe.  Handles that begin and end with Asterisks (*) are Reserved Handles created by members of the CB Club for exclusive use.  In this example, Timely is chatting with three other people on Channel 12 -- BankerB, Short, and Sli.


This is the current channel conversation.  In this example, BankerB and Short appear to be engaged in a type of electronic Ping Pong match, with Sli and Timely as spectators.


This is your nickname or nickname or handle (Timely).


This is your comment box.  Type what you want to say and then press a carriage return.  In this example, you are typing a comment.


Reading a User Profile

The User Profile dialog displays information about a member.

You get to the User Profile dialog by choosing  [image] at the Who's Here dialog in CB.

Related Information

CB Simulator

Forum Conferences

Learning Who Is on CB

Learning Who Is in a Forum


Information about a user.


Save: Takes you to a Filing Cabinet dialog where you can copy the profile information to a folder in your Filing Cabinet.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Monitoring a Conversation

The Monitoring dialog displays the online conversation in a forum conference room or on a CB channel.  You can view the conversation, but you cannot send comments.  This example shows a conversation taking place on the Hospitality Suite channel in CB.

You get here by choosing  [image] at either the Channel Selector dialog in CB or the Conference Rooms dialog in a forum.

Related CB Information

CB Simulator

Changing Your Handle

Inviting People to a Private Group

Learning Who Is on CB

Participating in Open Conversation

Reading a User Profile

Speaking Privately with Just One Person

Squelching a Person

Tracking People

Related Forum Information

Ignoring a Person

Changing Your Nickname

Forum Conferences

Inviting People to a Private Group

Learning Who Is in a Forum

Participating in Open Conversation

Discovering Member Interests

Speaking Privately with Just One Person


These are the handles or nicknames of the people conversing.  *SYSTEM* is not a person, but refers to a message displayed by CompuServe.  Handles that begin and end with Asterisks (*) are Reserved Handles created by members of the CB Club for exclusive use.  In this example, four persons -- emerald eyes, Merlin, Cavie, and Enchantress -- are chatting on the Hospitality Suite channel.


This is the current channel conversation.  In this example, emerald eyes, Merlin, and Cavie appear to be engaged in a birthday party recap, with Enchantress making an entrance and sending a greeting to emerald eyes.


Freeze: Stops the channel conversation from scrolling.  If you choose Freeze, the Freeze button changes to Unfreeze; then choose Unfreeze to resume viewing the active conversation.


Speaking Privately with Just One Person

The Talk dialog displays a private conversation between you and another forum member or CB user.  In this example, Bill is the only person who will see the private comment.

You get here by choosing  [image] at either the Who's Here dialog in CB or the  Who's Here dialog in a forum.

In order to see private messages from other CB users while you are in CB, the Accept option for Talks in the CB Preferences dialog must be set.  Similarly, in order to see private messages from forum members while you are in a forum, the Accept option for Talks in the Conference Preferences dialog must be set.

Related Information

CB Simulator

CB Preferences

Conference Features

Participating in Open Conversation

Inviting People to a Private Group


This is where the conversation is displayed.  Underlined text signifies that the comment is yours.  In this example, you are asking Bill, another CBer, a question.  The conversation display shows that Bill has not yet responded to your query.  CB will display his comment as soon as he sends it (types it and presses a carriage return).


This is where you type what you want to say.  Press a carrage return to send your comment to the person you are conversing with.


Scanning the CB Population

The Total users dialog is a bar graph depicting where the action is on CB and how many members are on each channel.  The bar for each channel shows you the channel population relative to the other channels.  The number in each bar tells you how many people are actually on the channel.

You get to the Total users dialog by choosing  [image] at the Channel Selector dialog.

Related Information

CB Simulator

Learning Who Is on CB

Selecting Channels


Tracking People

The Tracking Window keeps you up-to-date about other people while you are in CB or a forum conference.

Here is an example of a CB Tracking Window:

Which activities are reported in the Tracking Window are determined by whether you are in CB or a forum conference, and by which options have been marked at the CB Preferences and Conference Preferences dialogs.

Related Information

CB Preferences

Conference Preferences


Announcements

This type of dialog keeps you in the know with timely news when you are using a service, such as a forum or CB Simulator.


 Browsing Menus

The Display Menu dialog lists the current selections available to you.  Highlight the one you want and choose Select.

You will see this type of dialog throughout your CompuServe session.

Related Information

Accessing a Service


 CB Toolbox

The CB Toolbox is a pictorial menu of frequently used CB commands.

You can view the CB Toolbox by choosing Toolbox from the Special menu in CB.

If you want to see the CB Toolbox automatically each time you access CB, mark the Show Toolbox option in the CB Preferences dialog.

Related Information

CB Preferences

CB Simulator

Icons


This is your Channels icon.  It represents the Channels! command on the CB menu bar.  It takes you to a Channel Selector dialog where you can tune to and monitor a channel and learn information about who is on a particular channel.


This is your Who's Here icon.  It represents the Who's Here command on the People menu in CB.  It takes you to a Who's Here dialog where you can learn who is currently on CB, read a user profile, and initiate a private conversation with another person currently on CB.


This is your Change Handle icon.  It represents the Change Handle command on the Special menu in CB.  It takes you to a Change Handle dialog where you can change your handle.


This is your Friends icon.  It represents the Friends command on the People menu in CB.  It takes you to an Update Group dialog where you can create or modify a personal list of your CB friends.


This is your Invite icon.  It represents the Invite command on the People menu in CB.  It takes you to an Invite dialog where you can invite one or more persons currently on CB to form a private group with you.


This is your Squelch icon. It represents the Squelch command on the People menu in CB.  It takes you to a Squelch dialog where you can block communication from one or more members currently on CB.


Reading a Filed ENS Story

The Story dialog displays an ENS story that is stored in your Filing Cabinet.

You get here by choosing [image] at an Opening a Folder dialog in the Filing Cabinet.

Related Information

Executive News Service

Filing Cabinet

Retrieving Marked Stories


Each story begins with the date and time of its inception and the news source that carried the story.


Next: If there is a story or message in your Filing Cabinet folder that follows this story, Next displays it; otherwise, Next is not a valid selection and is dimmed.


File It: Takes you to a Filing Cabinet dialog where you can move or copy the story to another folder in your Filing Cabinet.


Delete: Removes the story from the folder.


Close: Closes this dialog.


Deleting Folder Entries

The Deleting Folder Entries dialog lists the entries in a Filing Cabinet folder so that you can delete them.

You get here by choosing [image] at the Filing Cabinet dialog if the highlighted folder is not empty.

Related Information

Filing Cabinet

Opening a Folder


These are your folder entries.  If you want to delete all entries, choose Mark All and then press OK.  If you want to delete only some entries, mark those entries and then choose OK.  Mark an entry by highlighting it and choosing Mark.  Once an entry has been marked, Mark changes to Unmark whenever the entry is highlighted.  Unmark cancels a highlighted marked entry.  (Entries are not actually deleted until you choose OK.)


Mark: Identifies the highlighted entry for deletion.  Once an entry has been marked, Mark changes to Unmark whenever the entry is highlighted.  Unmark cancels a highlighted marked entry.  (Entries are not actually deleted until you choose OK.)


Mark All: Identifies all entries for deletion.  (Entries are not actually deleted until you choose OK.)


OK: Deletes all marked entries and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without deleting any entries.


Discovering Member Interests

The Member Interests dialog displays information about other forum members.

You get here by choosing [image] at the  Who's Here dialog in a forum, or by conducting a forum Search Membership operation with the Search for Member dialog.

Related Information

Finding CompuServe Members

Finding Forum Members

Learning about CompuServe Members

Searching for Forum Members


Name: Takes you to an Add to Address Book dialog where you can add the person's name and electronic mailing address to your Address Book.


Interests-related information is displayed here if the member volunteered such information at either a Joining a Forum dialog or a Change Member Interests dialog.


Next: If you are viewing this dialog because you conducted a member search from the Search for Member dialog, Next displays information about the next member in the search results list.  (Next is not a valid selection and is dimmed if there are no more members in the search results list -- or if you are viewing this dialog because you chose Profile at the Who's Here dialog.)


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Finding Forum Members

The Member Directory Search dialog lists the names of the forum members that match your search criteria.

You get to the Member Directory Search dialog by choosing [image] at the Search for Member dialog.

Related Information

Discovering Member Interests

Finding CompuServe Members

Forums

Learning about CompuServe Members

Searching for Forum Members


Notices

This type of dialog typically lists the message and library sections in a forum.  You can read a simple description of each.

There are many ways to get here.

Related Information

Forums


Logon Parameters and Timeout Settings

The More Session Settings dialog contains some additional connection settings for rare situations.

You get here by choosing [image] at the Session Settings dialog.

Related Information

Session Settings

Settings


Logon Parameters: These are special instructions appended to your User ID number.  You should type only information when so directed by a CompuServe Customer Service representative.


HMI Timeout: Type the number of seconds you want the Information Manager to wait for a response from CompuServe before cancelling the command.  In this example, 30 seconds has been specified.  If you frequently receive time-out messages, you might want to increase your current timeout value.


OK: Records your changes and closes this dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any changes.


Filing a Message or a Reply

The Filing Cabinet dialog refiles a Mail message that is already stored in your Filng Cabinet.  It also files copies of your replies to forum and Mail messages, as well as messages and ENS stories.

There are many ways to get here:

Related Information

Filing Cabinet


These are the folders in your Filing Cabinet.  Highlight the one in which you want to file your message or story and choose Store.  If you want to create a new folder, choose New.


Move: Mark this if you want to put your reply into your Filing Cabinet to deal with later.  If Move is selected and you choose Store, the dialog from which you requested the filing operation is automatically closed.


Copy: Mark this if you want to make a copy of your reply and store it in your Filing Cabinet.  If Copy is selected and you choose Store, the Information Manager returns you to the dialog you were at before you requested the filing operation.


Store: Moves or copies your reply to the highlighted folder and closes this dialog.  In this example, Auto-Filed is the folder that would be used.


New: Takes you to an Add New Folder dialog where you can create a folder.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without filing your message or story.


Adding a Recipient List

This type of Add to Address Book adds recipient list information to your Address Book.

Related Information

Address Book

Assigning Recipient Information

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats

Requesting Receipt Notices


Recipient List: Highlight the entry you want to save.  Then choose Copy >> to add it to your Address Book, or Add >> to add it to the highlighted group entry under Address Book.


Copy >>: Adds the highlighted entry under Recipient List to your Address Book.  In this example, Jennings would be added to your Address Book.


New: Takes you to a New Group Name dialog where you can create an Address Group for one or more entries under Recipient List.


Add >>: Copies the highlighted entry under Recipient List to the highlighted group entry under Address Book.


OK: Records your changes and closes the dialog.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without making any of your changes.


Address Book: These are the entries in your Address Book.  If you want to add one or more entries under Recipient List to a group entry under Address Book, highlight the group entry,  then highlight each desired entry under Recipient List and choose Add >>.


Changing an Address Group Name

The New Group Name dialog displays an address group name for you to review or modify.

Related Information

Address Book


Learning About a File

The Get File dialog gives you a file summary.

You get here by choosing [image] at a Display Menu dialog.

Related Information

Forum Libraries

Reading about a Library File

Searching for Library Files


Retrieve: Takes you to a standard Windows Save As dialog where you can retrieve, or download, the file..


View: Displays the file if it is a GIF or text file.  If the file is a GIF file, View takes you to a GIF Window.  GIF files will have GIF at Type above the file description.  If the file is not a GIF or text file, View is not a valid selection and will be dimmed.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Finding CompuServe Members

The Membership Search Results dialog displays a list of CompuServe members who meet your search criteria.

You get here by choosing [image] at the Search Member Directory dialog.

Related Information

CompuServe Mail

Discovering Member Interests

Finding Forum Members

Forums

Learning about CompuServe Members

Searching for Forum Members


These are the members who meet your search criteria.  To view information about a member, highlight the member's entry and choose Open.  To add an entry to your Address Book, highlight the entry and choose Address.


Open: Displays information about the highlighted entry.  Takes you to a Member Interests dialog.


Address: Takes you to an Add to Address Book dialog where you can add the entry to your Address Book.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Learning About CompuServe Members

The Member Information dialog displays information about a specific CompuServe member.

You get here by choosing [image] at the Membership Search Results dialog.

Related Information

Discovering Member Interests

CompuServe Mail

Finding CompuServe Members

Finding Forum Members

Forums

Searching for Forum Members


Next: Displays member information for the next member listed at the Membership Search Results dialog.  If there is no such entry, Next is not a valid selection and is dimmed.


Address: Takes you to an Add to Address Book dialog where you can add the person to your Address Book.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Contributing a File

The Contribute a File dialog uploads a file.

Related Information

Contributing  a File to a Library

Forum Libraries


File: Takes you to a standard Windows Open dialog where you can identify and select the file you want to upload.


Type the name and path for the file on your microcomputer that you wish to upload to CompuServe.  If you use the File button, this information is automatically filled in for you.


File Type: Select the type of file you are uploading, either Binary, Text, or GIF.


OK: Closes the dialog and begins the upload process.


Cancel: Closes the dialog.


Copying Text

The Copy To dialog copies text from an Information Manager text box, such as a weather report, to the body of a forum or CompuServe Mail message you are composing.

You get here by choosing Copy To from the Edit menu.

Related Information

CompuServe Mail

Executive News Service

Forum Messages

Pasting Text


Mail Message: Mark this to copy the selected text in the Information Manager's text box to the body of a Mail message you are creating.


Forum Message: Mark this to copy the selected text in the Information Manager's text box to the body of a new forum message you are creating.


OK: If you selected Mail Message, OK takes you to a Create Mail dialog, pasting your text into the body of the blank message form.   If you selected Forum Message, OK takes you to a Create Forum Message dialog, pasting your text into the body of the blank message form..


Cancel: Closes the dialog without copying any text.


Help: Displays this help page.


Pasting Text

The Paste From dialog pastes the contents of a file stored on disk or in your Filing Cabinet, In-Basket, or Out-Basket into a forum or CompuServe Mail message that you are composing.

You get here by choosing Paste From from the Edit menu.

Related Information

CompuServe Mail

Copying Text

Executive News Service

Forum Messages


Text File: Mark this if you want to paste from a file on disk.  When you choose OK, the Information Manager takes you to a standard Windows Open dialog where you can identify and select the file you want to paste.


Filing Cabinet: Mark this if you want to paste from your Filing Cabinet.  Your Filing Cabinet folders are shown in the box below.  Highlight the one you want and choose OK.  When you do so, the Information Manager takes you to an Opening a Folder dialog where you can select the entry you want to paste.


In-Basket: Mark this if you want to paste from your In Basket.  When you choose OK, the Information Manager takes you to an In-Basket dialog where you can identify and select the message you want to paste.


Out-Basket: Mark this if you want to paste from your Out Basket.  When you choose OK, the Information Manager takes you to an Out-Basket dialog where you can identify and select the message you want to paste.


Your Filing Cabinet folders are always listed here.  If you selected Filing Cabinet, highlight the folder you want and choose OK.  When you do so, the Information Manager takes you to a Folder dialog where you can select the entry you want to paste.


OK: Takes you to the appropriate dialog where you can select what you want to paste.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Help Displays this help page..


Selecting Address Book Entries

The Select Entries from Address Book dialog lists your Address Book entries so that you can select one or more for an address group.

You get to the Select Entries from Address Book dialog by choosing Add at the Add Group to Address Book dialog.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail

Electronic Address Formats


Online Information

Sometimes the Information Manager displays online text in a dialog like this one.  Click Proceed to continue


Searching Your CompuServe Mail

The Search New Mail dialog finds Mail messages in your mailbox that meet your search criteria.  You can search by sender, subject, sensitivity, priority, or date.

You get here by choosing Search New Mail from the Mail menu.

Related Information

Address Book

CompuServe Mail


From: Takes you to a Select Entry from Address Book dialog where you can select the address you want to search for.  Once you make your selection, the Information Manager automatically fills in the electronic mailing address in the box at the right.


If you want to search for a particular electronic mailing address, type the address here.  If you use From to select your search address, the Information Manager automatically fills it in here.


Subject: If you want to search for messages by their subject wording, type a word or phrase that makes up the subject you want to search for.  Every word you specify must be part of the actual message subject in order for the Information Manager to find the message.


Normal: Select this if you want to search for only normal sensitivity messages.


Personal: Select this if you want to search for only personal sensitivity messages.


Sensitivity: Select the sensitivity level for the messages you want to search for: Normal, Personal, Private, Confidential, or All.


Importance: Select the importance level for the messages you want to search for: Low, Normal, High, or All.


If you want to restrict your search to a date frame, type the oldest date here.


If you want to restrict your search to a date frame, type the most recent date here.


Search: Conducts the search.  The Information Manager takes you to a Get New Mail dialog where you can view the messages that meet your search criteria.  If you think the Information Manager should have found a message when it did not, you might want to double check your search criteria.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without conducting a search.


Help: Displays this help page.


All: Select this if you want to search for all messages regardless of sensitivity.


Pasting from Your Out-Basket

The Out-Basket dialog lists the contents of your Out-Basket so that you can paste text into a text box that you are editing, such as the body of a CompuServe Mail message.

Select the entry you wish to paste.  Then click Select.

Related Information

CompuServe Mail

Copying Text

Executive News Service

Forum Messages

Pasting Text


Pasting from a Folder

This dialog lists the contents of a folder, such as your In-Basket folder or a folder in your Filing Cabinet, so that you can paste text into a text box that you are editing, such as the body of a CompuServe Mail message.

Select the entry you wish to paste.  Then click Select.

Related Information

CompuServe Mail

Copying Text

Executive News Service

Forum Messages

Pasting Text


Sending and Receiving Mail Automatically

The Send and Receive All Mail dialog automates your sending and receiving of Mail.

You get here by choosing Send/Receive All Mail from the Mail menu.

Related Information

CompuServe Mail

In-Basket

Out-Basket


Send Forum Messages from Out Basket: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to send any forum messages stored in your Out-Basket in addition to Mail messages.


Disconnect when Done: Mark this if you want the Information Manager to disconnect from CompuServe after sending and retrieving all messages.


OK: Sends any outgoing Mail in your Out-Basket, and also retrieves any incoming Mail that is waiting at your CompuServe mailbox into your In-Basket.  OK connects you to CompuServe if you are not already connected.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without sending or retrieving any messages.


Help: Displays this help page.


Executive News Service

The Executive News Service (ENS) puts you in touch with the the latest news.  Read news stories from Public Folders and Personal Folders , marking any you wish to retrieve to your Filing Cabinet

To access the Executive News Service, choose Executive News from the Services menu, or Go to ENS.

Executive News Service Topics

Browsing ENS Stories

Deleting a Personal Folder

Creating a Personal Folder

Clearing a Personal Folder

ENS Toolbox

ENS Preferences

Filing Cabinet

Reading a Filed ENS Story

Reading ENS Stories

Reading ENS Story Previews

Retrieving Marked ENS Stories

Previewing Marked ENS Stories

Searching for ENS Stories

Selecting Folders

Updating a Personal Folder


Public Folder: ENS automatically puts news stories such as current news into Public folders that anyone can peruse or browse.


Personal Folder: ENS gives you the option of designing up to three Personal folders for specific news stories.  You determine the story selection guidelines for each Personal folder; ENS then clips and saves only those stories that match the story selection guidelines.


retrieve: To download a story from a Personal Folder or Public Folder in ENS.


Forums

Forums are places where CompuServe members can meet others who share their special  interests.  Forum members can exchange information, expound opinions and ideas, and participate in general conversation.  Every forum has a message board, data libraries, and conference rooms where special meetings and seminars take place.

To view a list of forums related to a topic that interests you, choose Find... from the Initial Desktop Services menu and search for the topic.  To view a comprehensive list of all CompuServe forums, use Find... and search for FORUMS.

To view forum descriptions, consult the CompuServe Directory (choose CompuServe Directory from the Help menu).

Forum Topics

Conferences

Joining a Forum

Libraries

Membership Interests

Messages

Forum Options

Forum Preferences

Forum Toolbox


interests: There are hardware forums devoted to particular makes of computer equipment, software forums that offer support for popular programs, professional forums that cater to members of various professions, and more.


Forum Membership Interests

If you record your interests in the Forum Membership Directory, other members with similar interests will be able to locate you more easily.

Forum Membership Interests Topics

Changing Your Member Interests

Joining a Forum

Searching for Forum Members


Forum Messages

Forum messages are wide-ranging correspondence to be read by all.  You can browse the various forum Message Sections to explore and read the related Message Topics, or you can go straight to any messages addressed to you.  As you browse the assorted forum Message Topics you can mark individual messages, whole Message Topics, or entire Message Sections that you wish to retrieve.

Messages are not kept forever in a forum.  Some very busy forums keep messages for only a few days.  An important message might be placed in one of the forum's libraries for longer availability.

Forum Messages Topics

Browsing Forum Message Sections

Browsing Forum Messages and Topics

Creating a Forum Message

Filing Cabinet

Forum Preferences

Reading and Processing a Forum Message

Replying to a Message

Retrieving Your Marked Messages

Searching for a Forum Message

Setting the Oldest Message Date


duration of forum messages: Messages are not kept forever in a forum.  Some very busy forums keep messages for only a few days.  An important message might be placed in one of the forum's libraries for longer availability.  You cannot delete a forum message unless you are the author (See the Reading and Processing Forum Messages topic below).


waiting messages: If there are any unread messages addressed to you when you enter a forum, you can go straight to them by choosing Get Waiting from the Forum Messages menu.


Forum Libraries

Forum libraries are for relatively permanent storage of text files, graphics files, and software.

Anyone can contribute files to a forum library.  After careful review by the Sysop, the new file will be made available to all the forum members.

Files in a forum are organized into Library Sections.  As you browse or search the various Library Sections and files you can mark the ones you wish to retrieve.

Forum Libraries Topics

Browsing Library Files

Contributing a File to a Library

Forum Preferences

Reading About a Library File

Retrieving Your Marked Library Files

Searching for Library Files


Forum Conferences

Every forum has several electronic conference rooms for both scheduled conferences and impromptu chats.  You read the ongoing exchange in one window, while you type your comments and questions in another.

Forum Conferences Topics

Changing Your Conference Nickname

Conference Preferences

Entering a Conference Room

Ignoring a Person

Inviting People to a Private Group

Learning Who Is in a Forum

Monitoring a Conversation

Participating in Open Conversation

Tracking People


Settings

You can easily control your Information Manager connection and keyboard settings.

Settings Topics

Changing Your Display Font

Function Key Settings

Logon Parameters and Timeout Settings

Modem Control Settings

Session Settings


ticker symbol:  A standardized symbol, usually alphabetic, that identifies a particular securities issue. Company names or CUSIP numbers are not interchangeable with tickers.


Executive News Service:  A comprehensive collection of various news wires, reporting up-to-the-minute news, sports, and financial information.  ENS includes a powerful story search feature, which intercepts stories about designated subjects and clips or keeps them for you in up to three personal electronic folders.


name:   The name of the electronic mail recipient. You may also enter a nickname.


address:  The electronic mailing address of the recipient. This is the same as the recipient's User ID number.


comments:  Optional information you may include as you create or modify an electronic message.


group name:  The name of the address group you want to create or modify.


address group:  You can combine one or more of your Address Book entries into categories called address groups.  Then you can cause a message to be sent to all members of an address group by simply addressing the message to that address group.


description:  How you want your entry to appear in your Favorite Places; the particular wording you want to use to describe the service or forum.


service name:  The same name you would use if you were to Go to the service.


message board:  The place where forum messages are posted.


library:  A forum's reference area; ideal for long-term storage of lengthy, structured documents or software programs contributed by forum members for forum members.


conference:  A 'live' electronic conversation that you can participate in or monitor; includes casual chats, scheduled meetings, and guest lectures.


room:  Where a conference takes place; each forum has several conference rooms.


sysop:  System operator, a forum member who is in charge of the forum and can answer questions about the forum and resolve most problems you encounter.


message start date:  The date of the oldest message in a forum that you want included in your messages set; controls the number of messages available to you.


section:  An area of a message board in a forum; each forum has several sections; each section focuses on some more specific aspect of the forum's overall area of interest.


topic:  A group of forum messages with a common subject and a common genealogy; a thread of connected messages.  Also the subject of such a group or thread.


thread:  A group of forum messages with a common subject and a common genealogy. Also called a topic.


mark:  To select an item in a list for a later action.  For example, while browsing in a forum library, you can mark files that interest you and retrieve them later.  A marked item is usually denoted by a marked checkbox.


retrieve:  To copy a file from a CompuServe forum library to disk storage on your microcomputer (download).


contribute:  To copy a file from disk storage on your microcomputer to a CompuServe forum library (upload).


freshen:  To update a forum's message board while in the forum; useful if you want to see newly posted messages since your entrance into the forum.


posting date:  The date a forum message appears on the message board.


map:  A list of names connected by lines diagramming the relationships among messages within the current forum message topic.


private message:  A forum message that you send to another member via CompuServe Mail; the message does not appear on the forum's message board, but goes directly to the member's private CompuServe Mail area.


Filing Cabinet:  Storage area that the Information Manager creates and maintains on your microcomputer.  You use folders in your Filing Cabinet to store and organize messages and other documents while using the Information Manager.


CB Simulator:  A kind of CB on CompuServe, but without radio waves.  Just like on a traditional citizen's band radio, you monitor and tune to channels to converse with other CBers, but rather than speak into a microphone, you type at a keyboard.  Your comments are visible to others on the channel; their comments are visible to you.  Join in or just listen.  Access one of 72 channels.


In-Basket:  An area reserved by CompuServe in your computer's disk storage.  You can store your incoming Mail messages in your In Basket until you decide what to do with them.


Address Book:  Disk storage area where the Information Manager can keep names, addresses, and other important information about your regular CompuServe Mail correspondents.


file abstract:  A summary of a file in a forum library containing information such as description and size.


view:  To read a document or display a graphics file.


binary:  Files stored in binary format, such as tokenized BASIC programs, machine language programs, and most microcomputers' BASIC data files.


text:  The contents of a message or a readable file.  All messages in the Information Manager are text.


browse:  To explore the hierarchy of CompuServe services, peruse the hierarchy of messages and library files in a forum, or scan news stories in the Execuitve News Service.


forum:  A CompuServe service for members sharing a special interest.  More than 200 forums exist on CompuServe.  Forums have message boards, data libraries, and conference rooms where special seminars and meetings take place.


message number:  Each forum message has a unique number assigned to it which identifies it from all other messages.


private group:  A group in a forum conference room or on a CB channel that consists only of those members who were invited to it.


Favorite Places:  An Information Manager menu that you can customize to list the services you access frequently; you can add or delete services at will.  When you select a service from your Favorite Places menu, you go directly to that service.


keyword:  In forums, a word or phrase identifying the contents of a file.  If you are searching a forum library, keywords govern the search. Keywords are also used when searching for new stories in the Executive News Service.


message:  General term for electronic communications sent by one CompuServe member and received by another.  Examples are CompuServe Mail messages, forum messages, and CB messages.


Out-Basket:  An area reserved by CompuServe in your computer's disk storage.  Store completed mail and forum messages here until you are ready to send them; save incomplete messages here until you finish them.


join:  Although you can read forum messages and browse library files as a visitor without joining a forum, you must eventually join in order to enjoy full forum membership privileges, such as posting or replying to messages and contributing or retrieving library files.


tune:  This means to select the CB channel you want to converse on.  You can only converse on one channel at a time -- the one you're tuned to.


channel:  This is where conversations take place in CB.  Each channel is like a type of lounge or conference room.  There are up to 72 channels for you to pick from.


bulletin:  Late-breaking news concerning the CB service and community.


channel selector:  The particular dialog from which you select a channel to tune to or monitor.


friends group:  This is your record of names and CompuServe addresses of your CB and forum friends; this address group is automatically placed in your Address Book and is called CB/CO group.


handle:  A nickname that identifies you on CB; you can change your handle anytime.


invite:  To ask one or more people to join a private group conversation.


lobby:  The initial entrance to CB or a forum.  From here, you can tune to a channel or enter a room and join an existing conversation or start a new one.


monitor:  To listen to the activities of a channel or conference room.  This may be done while you are tuned  to another channel or room.


profile:  A file containing information on each CB member, usually including where people live, their handle, what type of computer they use, and general interests.  You may choose whether you wish to establish a profile for yourself.


squelch:  To block communication from another user; their messages no longer appear on your screen.


tracking window:  A small window that reports the ongoing activity in CB, including who's coming and going, switching channels, and changing handles.


capture buffer:  A feature in Terminal Emulation that automatically records the exchange of information between you and CompuServe.


About box:  A dialog box that shows the software's version number and reports details of your last session with CompuServe.


basic services:  CompuServe services that have unlimited free connect time for a flat monthly rate under the Standard Pricing Plan. (There are communications surcharges for some networks in some locations.)


baud rate:  Signals transmitted per second over a communications link. In Session Settings, you can select any baud rate your modem supports.


billing time:  Amount of time (up to the nearest minute) that you use an extended service. Billing time differs from connect time because it represents only the amount of time for which you are charged.


command:  A choice on a pull-down menu or an instruction. The Go command is frequently used in the Information Manager. You can also enter commands when in Terminal Emulation.


command button:  A rectangular button in a dialog box which implements the indicated action. Command buttons are often labeled Cancel and Select.


communications network:  The combinations of lines, satellites, and machines that enables computers to exchange information.


communications surcharge:  The charge levied by a communications network for carrying information between you and CompuServe. CompuServe members have to pay for connecting through some networks at some locations.


CompuServe Directory:  A guide to forums and other services. The CompuServe Directory contains brief descriptions of services. Access the directory from the Help menu and search for services by description or name.


CompuServe Mail:  Electronic mail system for CompuServe members. CompuServe Mail permits message exchange between CompuServe members and members of many other electronic mail services.


connect time:  The amount of time you are connected to CompuServe. Connect time differs from billing time because it includes all the time you spend online. You can connect to CompuServe and use complimentary services like the Electronic Mall without accruing CompuServe charges.]


control key command:  The combination of Control plus a letter key. These key combinations are used to control the flow of text in Terminal Emulation. Some examples are Control + C and Control + S.


default:  Option that is set for you automatically. Defaults streamline your activities because the computer uses what is already selected. You can always change a default.


desktop:  Onscreen area that organizes and arranges your Information Manager materials. Resources like the Ribbon, toolboxes, and menu display choices available to you. Forums, CB Simulator, Executive News Service, and Terminal Emulation have distinctive desktops with their own unique resources.


dialog box: Box in which you supply specific instructions for the Information Manager.


download:  To copy a file from CompuServe to your computer's disk storage.


Executive Service Option:  A special membership option that gives you exclusive access to a specialized group of CompuServe services like SUPERSITE, which are labeled (E).  The Executive Service Option carries a $10 monthly minimum.


extended services:  Large and diverse group of CompuServe pay-as-you-go services. In service menus, + appears at the far right of any extended service. Some, but not all, extended services carry premium charges, and these are also indicated on the menu.


file transfer:  The exchange of a file between a remote computer system and your own computer. You can upload to CompuServe or download from it.


GIF:  Graphics Interchange Format. CompuServe's format for graphics files that can be exchanged between different types of computers.


icon:  A graphical representation of a service or command.


log off:  To disconnect from CompuServe.


log on:  To connect to CompuServe.


Member Directory:  A listing of names and User ID numbers of CompuServe members.


menu bar:  Horizontal bar at the top of the screen identifying the major groups of functions offered by the Information Manager. The menu bar provides access to listed services and commands. The menu bar changes in forums and some services.


option button:  Small, round button in a dialog box that allows you to designate specific preferences. Option buttons in a group are mutually exclusive.


password:  Personalized secret 'word' required for access to your CompuServe account. You can change your password as often as you'd like. Never tell anyone your password.


premium charge:  The surcharge for an especially valuable service provided by CompuServe. Premium charges may be based on usage time or number of transactions on a service. If premium charges apply, they are always indicated by ($) on the list menu where you select a service.


prompt:  Request for specific instruction or information in Terminal Emulation. A prompt often requires you to enter a response in order to continue.


protocol:  Set of rules governing computer-to-computer communication.


retries:  Number of times your modem will try to connect to CompuServe if your initial try isn't successful. You set retries in Session Settings.


retrieve:  To move or copy a file or document from CompuServe to your own computer. You can retrieve new CompuServe Mail to your In-Basket and news stories or forum messages to your Filing Cabinet.


Ribbon:  The row of icons that appear at the top of your screen. Each Ribbon icon represents a feature of the Information Manager.


scroll:  To move horizontally or vertically through a menu, article, or other text document. If a long bar appears along the right side of what you're reading, that's a hint that you can scroll up and down using your mouse or direction keys. You can also scroll left and right to see all of a text document that is wider than your screen.


Services window:  Graphical menu showing the major groups of online CompuServe services.


Session Settings:  Information required to connect your computer to CompuServe. In Session Settings, you provide all the information that you want your computer to use automatically. Whatever you don't provide (for instance, your password), you will have to enter every time you log on.


Terminal Emulation:  The mode in which your computer emulates a terminal. Many CompuServe services work in Terminal Emulation, where you navigate with textual commands instead of windows.


toolbox:  A column of icons that provides quick and easy access to some of the most important features in the Executive News service, CB Simulator, and forums. Toolboxes differ from desktop to desktop.


User ID number:  CompuServe account identification number. Your User ID number is your electronic mailing address and is listed beside your name in the Member Directory.


WinCIM:  Acronym for the Windows version of the CompuServe Information Manager.


database:  Online repository of information. You can access databases like IQuest in order to scan abstracts, read the full text of published materials, and download documents.


full text:  Whole and uncut document. Several databases offer access to full-text articles which you can read or download.


full-text search:  A database search that searches the entire text of an article to find a match to a keyword you specify.


keyword:  A portion of a word,  a whole word, or a phrase that guides your search through a database, forum library, and the Executive News Service. All available topics and files are selected based on the exact spelling of keywords, regardless of their case.


multiplayer games:  Online games which can be played simultaneously by different people in different places.


text:  The contents of a message, article, or other kind of document.


text file:  A file consisting solely of ASCII characters (characters you can type at your keyboard).


upload:  To copy a file from you computer's disk storage to CompuServe.


toggle:  (noun) A function that can be turned on and off by using the same key or key combination or by choosing it from a menu. (verb) To switch a function on or off with the same key, key combination, or command.


function keys:  Key combinations in Terminal Emulation and CB that have text or commands assigned to them


summary page:  A brief recap of information necessary to play a game, including special equipment requirements, suggested age, number of players, and so on. The summary page also provides access to detailed instructions.


Glossary

About box

address

Address Book

address group

basic services

baud rate

billing time

binary

capture buffer

communications network

communications surcharge

CompuServe Directory

CompuServe Mail

conference

CB Simulator

contribute

connect time

desktop

dialog box

download

Executive Service Option

extended services

Favorite Places

file abstract

Filing Cabinet

file transfer

forum

function keys

GIF

group name

handle

icon

In-Basket

keyword

library

lobby

log off

log on

Member Directory

message board

multiplayer games

name

Out-Basket

password

premium charge

private message

protocol

retrieve

Ribbon

section

service name

Services window

Session Settings

Sysop

Terminal Emulation

text

text file

ticker symbol

thread

toolbox

topic

upload

User ID number

WinCIM


ENS Toolbox

The ENS Toolbox is a pictorial menu of frequently used ENS commands.

You can view the ENS Toolbox by choosing Toolbox from the Special menu in ENS.

If you want to see the ENS Toolbox automatically each time you access ENS, mark the Show Toolbox option in the ENS Preferences dialog.

Related Information

ENS Preferences

Executive News Service


This is your Notices icon.  It gives you important news about ENS, such as upcoming changes or service-related announcements.  It will be dimmed if there are no announcements.


This is your Select Folder icon.  It represents the Select Folder command on the Stories menu.  It takes you to a Select Folder dialog where you can examine your Personal and Public ENS Folders to browse and search for stories.


This is your Retrieve Marked Stories icon.  It represents the Retrieve Marked Stories command on the Stories menu. It takes you to a Retrieve Marked Stories dialog where you can download the stories you marked for retrieval.


This is your Create Folder icon.  It represents the Create Folder command on the Stories menu.  It takes you to a Create Folder dialog where you can design a Personal Folder to hold your clipped news stories.


This is your Update Folder icon.  It represents the Update Folder command on the Stories menu.  It takes you to an Update Folder dialog where you can update or modify the story selection guidelines for a Personal Folder.


This is your Delete Folder icon.  It represents the Delete Folder command on the Stories menu.  It takes you to a Delete Folder dialog where you can dispose of a Personal Folder.


Searching for ENS Stories

The Search for Stories dialog displays the news sources and searching options available in ENS so you can find specific news stories.

You get here by choosing  [image] at a Select Folder dialog.

Related Information

Browsing ENS Stories

Executive News Service

Reading ENS Stories


These are all the news sources available to you in ENS.  Mark one or more news sources you want ENS to search.  If you want to mark all news sources, choose All.  You can choose None to clear or unmark any marked news sources.


All: Marks all news sources.


None: Unmarks all news sources.


Ticker: This option is available only when you are searching the News by Company Ticker Public Folder.  Ticker enables you to search for stories containing a specific ticker symbol, such as HRB.  You type the ticker symbols you want to search for at Keywords, with each ticker symbol separated by a semicolon (;).


Story Headline: This option is not implemented in the current version of WinCIM.  In later releases you will be able to select Story Headline if you want to search only story headlines for matching words or phrases that you type at Keywords.  A story headling is a single-line description of a story.


Story Lead: This option is not implemented in the current version of WinCIM.  In later releases you will be able to select Story Lead if you want to search only the first sentence or few lines of a story for matching words or phrases that you type at Keywords.


Story Body: This option is not implemented in the current version of WinCIM.  In later releases you will be able to select Story Body if you want to search the entire story for matching words or phrases that you type at Keywords.


Keywords:  Type what you want ENS to look for.  You can include a plus sign (+) to represent AND, a minus sign (-) to represent NOT, and a vertical bar symbol (|) to represent OR.  For example, if you type HURRICANE + ANDREW - (MACON|AUGUSTA|SAVANNAH), ENS will look for stories that contain both HURRICANE and ANDREW and ignore stories that contain MACON, AUGUSTA, or SAVANNAH, implying that you might be interested in stories about how Hurricane Andrew has influenced rural Georgia.  Use parentheses ( ) to assure that your search critera is accurate.


Date range from:  Type the date of the oldest story you are interested in looking at.


Date range to:  Type the date of the most recent story you are interested in looking at.


Search:  If you have chosen at least one news source and specified accurate information at Search on, Keywords, and Date Range, ENS will begin searching for stories that match your search criteria.  If the search is successful, you will go to a List of Stories dialog where where you can learn about individual stories.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Updating a Personal Folder

The Update Folder dialog lists your Personal Folders.  Select the one you want to modify.

You get here by clicking the Update Folder icon at the ENS Toolbox or by choosing Update Folder from the Stories menu in ENS.

Related Information

Deleting a Personal Folder

Creating a Personal Folder

Clearing a Personal Folder

Executive News Service


These are your Personal folders.  Highlight the one you want to update and choose Update.


Update: Takes you to a Create Folder dialog where you can review or modify the story selection guidelines in the highlighted folder.  In this example, you would update the BERNIE folder.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Deleting a Personal Folder

The Delete Folder dialog lists your Personal Folders.  Select the one you want to delete.  You cannot delete Public Folders in ENS.

You get here by clicking the Delete Folder icon at the ENS Toolbox or by choosing Delete Folder from the Stories menu in ENS.

Related Information

Clearing a Personal Folder

Creating a Personal Folder

Executive News Service

Updating a Personal Folder


These are your Personal folders.  Highlight the one you wish to delete and choose Delete.


Delete: Removes the highlighted folder from your group of Personal Folders.  In this example, the BERNIE folder would be removed.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Selecting Folders

The Select Folder dialog lists your Personal and Public Folders in ENS.  You can read (browse) stories, search for specific stories, and remove stories (only from a Personal Folder).

You get here by clicking the Select Folder icon at the ENS Toolbox or by choosing Select Folder from the Stories menu in ENS.

The Select Folder dialog appears automatically when you access ENS if the Show Folders option in the ENS Preferences dialog has been set.

Related Information

Browsing ENS Stories

Creating a Personal Folder

Clearing a Personal Folder

ENS Preferences

Executive News Service

Searching for ENS Stories


Personal: If you have any personal folders they are listed here along with the number of stories in each.


Public: The public ENS folders are listed here along with the number of stories in each.


Browse: Lists the story headlines for the Personal Folder that is highlighted.  Takes you to a List of Stories dialog.  You cannot browse stories in a Public Folder.  In this example, you would browse stories in the BERNIE folder.


Search: Takes you to a Search for Stories dialog where you can search for stories in the highlighted folder that contain words or phrases you specify.  In this example, you would search for stories in the BERNIE folder.


Clear: Takes you to a  Clear Folder dialog where you can remove unwanted stories from the highlighted Personal Folder.  You cannot clear stories from a Public Folder.  In this example, you would remove stories from the BERNIE folder.


Close: Closes the dialog.


Creating a Personal Folder

The Create Folder dialog displays the news sources and searching options available in ENS so you can set up a Personal Folder to clip the news stories you want.

There are many ways to get here.

Related Information

Deleting a Personal Folder

Clearing a Personal Folder

Selecting Folders

Executive News Service

Updating a Personal Folder


Folder name: Type a one-word name for the folder.  This cannot be blank.


These are all the news sources available to you in ENS.  Mark one or more news sources you want ENS to search.  If you want to mark all news sources, choose All.  You can choose None to clear or unmark any marked news sources.


All: Marks all news sources.


None: Unmarks all news sources.


Story Retention: Type the number of days (up to 14) that you want ENS to hold your clipped stories.  ENS will automatically delete any stories that have been held in the folder longer than the number of days specified at Story Retention.  ENS initially assigns a value of 14 to Story Retention.


Expiration: Type the date (up to one year later) on which you want ENS to stop clipping stories for the folder.  ENS initially assigns a value of one year to Expiration..


Search criteria: Type up to five separate keywords or keyword combinations.  ENS will look for this information in each story released on the news sources you have marked.  You can include a plus sign (+) to represent AND, a minus sign (-) to represent NOT, and a vertical bar symbol (|) to represent OR.  For example, if you type CAT + WILD at line 1, and CAT - (KITTENS|KITTY) at line 2, ENS will look for stories that contain both CAT and WILD and ignore stories that contain KITTEN or KITTY, implying that you are interested in stories about adult wild cats, such as mountain lions.  Use parentheses ( ) to prevent confusion.


OK: Records your information and closes the dialog.  You must have proper information at Folder name, Story Retention, and Expiration in order for ENS to create your folder.


Cancel: Closes the dialog without recording any information.


Browsing ENS Stories

The List of Stories dialog displays ENS story headlines.  You can read (get) a complete story, preview only the opening lines of a story, and mark stories for retrieval to your Filing Cabinet.

There are many ways to get here.

Related Information

Executive News Service

Filing Cabinet

Reading ENS Stories

Reading ENS Story Previews

Retrieving Marked ENS Stories

Searching for ENS Stories


Story headlines are listed here along with the date and time of each story and the news source that carried the story.  Mark any stories you are interested in.


Get: Displays the story associated with the highlighted headline.  Takes you to a Story dialog.  In this example, you would read a Life After Larry story.


Preview: Displays the first few lines of the story associated with the highlighted headline.  Takes you to a Story Preview dialog.  In this example, you would read a preview for the Life After Larry story.


Mark: Identifies, or marks, the story associated with the highlighted headline as one you wish to later retrieve.  In this example, Life After Larry would be marked.


Delete: Removes the story associated with the highlighted headline in a Personal Folder.  This button will be active only when you are looking at a Personal Folder.  You can delete stories from Personal Folders, but not from Public Folders.  In this example, the Life After Larry story would be removed because BERNIE is a Personal Folder.


Close: Closes this dialog.


Reading ENS Stories

The Story dialog displays an ENS story and gives you some processing options.  You can delete only stories in a Personal Folder.

You get here by choosing  [image] at a List of Stories dialog.

Related Information

Browsing ENS Stories

Executive News Service

Filing Cabinet

Reading ENS Story Previews

Searching for ENS Stories


Each story begins with the date and time of its inception and the news source that carried the story.


Next: Displays the story that immediately follows this one in the List of Stories dialog.  In this example, you would view the Workplace: Disaster Brought Out the Best in story (see the List of Stories dialog).


Mark: Identifies, or marks, the story as one you wish to later retrieve.


File it: Takes you to a Filing Cabinet dialog where you can copy the story to a folder in your Filing Cabinet.


Delete: Removes the story from the folder.  This button will be active only when you are looking at a story in a Personal Folder.  You cannot delete stories from Public Folders.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Reading ENS Story Previews

The Story Preview dialog displays the first few lines of a news story in ENS.

You get here by choosing  [image] at a List of Stories dialog.

Related Information

Browsing ENS Stories

Executive News Service

Reading ENS Stories

Searching for ENS Stories


The first few lines of the story should give you a feel for whether you want to read the entire story.


Next: Displays the story preview for the story following this one at the List of Stories dialog.  In this example, you would view the preview for the Workplace: Disaster Brought Out the Best in story (see the List of Stories dialog).


Get: Displays the entire story.  Takes you to a Story dialog.


Mark: Identifies, or marks, the story as one you wish to later retrieve.


Delete: Removes the story from the folder.  This button will be active only when you are looking at a story in a personal folder.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Clearing a Personal Folder

The Clear Folder dialog removes stories from a Personal Folder.

You get here by choosing  [image] from a Select Folder dialog.

Related Information

Deleting a Personal Folder

Executive News Service

Updating a Personal Folder


Delete stories older than: Select this if you want to remove only stories older than a particular date.  You specify the date in the box at the right.  In this example, only stories older than October 11, 1992 will be removed from the BERNIE Personal Folder.


Type the date of the oldest story you wish to retain.  All stories older than the date you type will be removed from the folder.   In this example, only stories older than October 11, 1992 will be removed from the BERNIE Personal folder.


Clear all stories in this folder: Select this if you want to remove every story in the folder.


OK: Removes the appropriate stories from the folder.  In this example, all stories older than November 11, 1992 will be removed from the BERNIE Personal folder.


Cancel: Closes this dialog without deleting any stories.


Retrieving Marked ENS Stories

The Retrieve Marked Stories dialog retrieves the stories you marked during your ENS session.

You get here by clicking the Retrieve Marked Stories icon at the ENS Toolbox or by choosing Retrieve Marked Stories from the Stories menu in ENS.

The Information Manager removes stories from a Personal Folder after you retrieve them if the Delete Retrieved Stories option in the ENS Preferences dialog has been set.

Related Information

ENS Preferences

Executive News Service

Previewing Marked ENS Stories


All the stories you marked for retrieval are listed here.


Get All: Begins the retrieval process.


Preview: Displays the first few lines of the highlighted story so that you can reevaluate whether to retrieve the story.  Takes you to a Retrieve Marked Preview dialog.  In this example, you would view a preview for the Buddy Ryan entry.


Unmark: Removes the highlighted entry from the list of stories to be retrieved.  In this example, the Buddy Ryan entry would be removed.


Close: Closes this dialog without retrieving any stories.


Previewing Marked ENS Stories

The Retrieve Marked Preview dialog displays the first few lines of a marked story in ENS.

You get here by choosing  [image] at a Retrieve Marked Stories dialog.

Related Information

Executive News Service

Retrieving Marked ENS Stories


The first few lines of the story should give you a feel for whether you want to retrieve the story.


Next: Displays the story preview associated with the story that immediately follows this one in the Retrieve Marked Stories dialog.  In this example, you would view a preview for the Life After Larry story (see the Retrieve Marked Stories dialog).


Unmark: Removes the story from the list of stories to be retrieved.


Cancel: Closes this dialog.


Introduction

WinCIM Help gives you information as you need it.  If you want help at a dialog or highlighted menu command, just press the F1 key.

Reproduced Dialogs

Whenever you see a dialog box in WinCIM Help, you can click on parts of it for more help.

Please click on each of the buttons in this sample dialog to see how information is displayed:

Reproduced Icons

Sometimes in WinCIM Help, you can click on reproduced icons and learn information too:


This is how the WinCIM Help System displays help for the various components of a dialog, in a popup window.  When you finish reading the information in the popup window, click again, and the popup window disappears.


You know when to click by watching your pointer.  When it becomes a tiny hand you can click and expect to see a popup window.  When you finish reading the information in the popup window, click again, and the popup window disappears.


Often within a popup window you see text that is green or underlined with a dotted or solid line.  You can click on it and expect to view a secondary popup window or go to another help page.  When you finish reading the information in the popup window, click again, and the popup window disappears.


Here is an example of a secondary popup window.  When you finish reading the information in the popup window, click again, and the popup window disappears.


Dialogs within the WinCIM Help System are reproductions or fake dialogs.  Clicking on a button only tells you what the button does.  When you finish reading the information in the popup window, click again, and the popup window disappears.


Dialogs within the WinCIM Help System are reproductions or fake dialogs.  Clicking on a button only tells you what the button does.  When you finish reading the information in the popup window, click again, and the popup window disappears.


Preferences

You can customize your Information Manager desktops to get the look and feel you want by assigning preferences.

Preferences Topics

CB Simulator

Conference Preferences

Executive News

Forums

General

Mail

Terminal Emulation


For example, you might want to see the Favorite Places dialog each time you start up the Information Manager, you might want to be prompted for a handle each time you enter CB, and you might want the Information Manager to make a copy of every message you send in CompuServe Mail.  These are all preferences that you can assign in the Information Manager.


Terminal Emulation

During normal operation, the Information Manager automatically switches to Terminal Emulation whenever you access a service that does not support the Information Manager's graphical interface; then when you leave a service in Terminal Emulation, you leave Terminal Emulation itself and return to the windowed interface of the Information Manager.

Terminal Emulation Topics

Connecting

Making a Log File

Printing Your Screen Activity

Programming Function Keys

Terminal Emulation Desktop

Understanding Terminal Emulation

Using a Capture Buffer

Using Control Keys

Using Keyboard Commands


Understanding Terminal Emulation

Terminal Emulation makes your computer behave like a terminal attached to a host computer.  Because terminals are capable only of sending and receiving text and usually have little or no computing power of their own, a typical terminal displays scrolling text -- nothing else.

You can conduct a complete CompuServe session in Terminal Emulation, if you like.  Terminal Emulation lets you access CompuServe or another host-based computer system without the windowed appearance of the Information Manager.

Although not every service on CompuServe supports the Information Manager's windowed appearance, every service does have a Terminal Emulation version, including CompuServe Mail or a CompuServe forum.

Related Information

Connecting


Terminal Emulation Desktop

The terminal emulation desktop is unique.  You still see a Ribbon and a menu bar, but you also see some other things at the bottom of your screen.

Related Information

Making a Log File

Printing Your Screen Activity

Programming Function Keys

Using a Capture Buffer


File Capture: Shows your file logging status.  On means you are logging your screen activity to a disk file on your microcomputer; Off means you are not.


Printer Capture: Shows your printing status.  On means you are printing your screen activity; Off means you are not.


View Mode: Shows your Capture Buffer status.  Capture means you are viewing the Capture Buffer; Terminal means you are not.


Alt+1, Alt+2, ... Alt+10: These are representations of your Alt key combinations.  If an Alt key combination has been defined at the Function Key Settings dialog, you can click the representation here and the series of keystrokes associated with that Alt key combination will be entered automatically for you.  If an Alt key combination has not been definied, the representation will not be a valid selection and will be dimmed.


The Ribbon icons in Terminal Emulation perform the same functions that they do in the Information Manager's windowed interface.  However, if an icon takes you to a service that supports the Information Manager's windowed interface, you automatically leave Terminal Emulation before going to the service.


The menu bar in Terminal Emulation is the same as the one on the Information Manager's Initial Desktop, except for the Special menu, which has some Terminal Emulation-related commands.


When you are in a service that uses Terminal Emulation, CompuServe asks you for information or instruction by displaying a prompt, such as Enter Choice! at the bottom of a menu.  You can select a menu choice in a Terminal Emulation service by double-clicking the line that begins with the choice number or by typing the number and pressing a carriage return.  Double-clicking anywhere else is the same as pressing a carriage return without typing a number.


Programming Function Keys

In Terminal Emulation, you can assign a series of keystrokes to up to ten Alt key combinations.  Whenever you press a defined Alt key combination in Terminal Emulation, or whenever you click a defined Alt key representation at the bottom of your Terminal Emulation Desktop, the keystrokes you assigned to that key are automatically entered for you.

For example, you might want to program an Alt key combination to automate requesting and viewing a stock market report in a financial service, an advisory or extended forecast in a weather service, or an article in a reference service.

To program an Alt key combination, choose Set Function Keys from the Special menu.  When you do, the Information Manager takes you to a Function Key Settings dialog, where you can assign a series of keystrokes to up to ten Alt key combinations.


Using a Capture Buffer

Terminal Emulation has a Capture Buffer, which automatically saves text displayed on your screen.  You can use it to keep an easily reviewable record of everything CompuServe sends to your screen and everything you enter.

Choose View Buffer from the Special menu to view and manipulate the contents of your Capture Buffer.  While viewing your Capture Buffer, Capture will appear in the View Mode box at the bottom of your Terminal Emulation Desktop.

You can scroll through the contents of the Capture Buffer to review your recent activities.  You can also choose the Save or Save As command from the File menu to copy the contents to a text file or a message, or the Copy command from the Edit menu to copy the contents to the Windows Notepad.

The Terminal Preferences command on the Special Preferences submenu lets you control the size of your Capture Buffer.

To leave your Capture Buffer and return to active terminal display, choose View Terminal from the Special menu.  When you do so, Terminal will appear in the View Mode box at the bottom of your screen.

If you ever want to empty your Capture Buffer and start a fresh text capture, choose Clear Buffer from the Special menu.


Printing Your Screen Activity

You can print your screen activity in Terminal Emulation.  Choose Record on Printer from the Special menu to print out information as it is being displayed on your screen, such as a report, an article, or whole activity sequence.

Record on Printer toggles your printer on and off.  When your printer is on, you will see a check mark next to the command and, at the bottom of your Terminal Emulation Desktop, On appears in the Printer Capture box.

When you choose Record on Printer a second time, printing stops and the check mark next to the command is removed and Off appears in the Printer Capture box at the bottom of your screen.


Making a Log File

You can create a log file of your screen activity in Terminal Emulation.  Choose Record in File from the Special menu to save a disk file record of information as it is being displayed on your screen, such as a report, an article, or whole activity sequence.

Record in File toggles recording on and off.  When you turn recording on, a dialog appears, asking you to specify an output file, a check mark appears next to the command, and On appears in the File Capture box at the bottom of your Terminal Emulation Desktop.

When you choose Record in File a second time, logging stops and the check mark next to the command is removed and Off appears in the File Capture box at the bottom of your screen.


Using Keyboard Commands

CompuServe has a wide range of special key commands that can help you navigate using Terminal Emulation.  These commands can be entered whenever you see the exclamation point (!) prompt.

B (back)	Takes you to the previous full screen of text in a multiple-screen menu or article

EXIT	Takes you out of a service and sometimes places you in your Personal File Area

FIND	Displays any service(s) related to the topic you entered after the word FIND

GO	Takes you to the service whose Go word you enter after the word GO

M (menu)	Takes you to the next higher level in the menu structure.  If the Information Manager placed you in Terminal Emulation to access a service, M may take you back to the graphical interface

N (next)	Takes you to the next choice on the same menu where you last made a selection

OFF	Disconnects you from CompuServe but leaves you connected to the communications network

QUO	Retrieves current quotes for the ticker symbols you enter

R (resend)	Repeats the current display

S (scroll)	Causes a long text article to scroll up the screen without pausing

T (top)	Takes you to a menu of the main groups of service available on the CompuServe Information Service

WEA	Shows you a weather report for your current location, or for the reporting station you specify

Usually these same commands are avilable at a prompt ending in a colon (:), but you must type a forward slash (/) in front of each command (/M or /T, for example).


Using Control Keys

While using a Terminal Emulation service, you can use special key combinations called control keys to control the operation of the CompuServe Information Service.  You can access these commands by using the Control key on your keyboard.

Control+C	Interrupts an operation.  Pressing Control+C several times in a row may disconnect you.

Control+O	Skips the remainder of the report or article currently being displayed.  You can use this command to conclude a long display operation after seeing parts that interest you.

Control+S	Immediately stops CompuServe from transmitting text to your screen

Control+Q	Tells CompuServe to resume scrolling after it has been stopped by Control+S

Control+U	Erases anything you have typed but not yet sent to CompuServe by pressing a carriage return.  Use Control+U to start over when you notice a typographical error near the beginning of something you are typing.


Member Support

The Member Support area on CompuServe gives you helpful hints about using CompuServe, as well as information about billing, learning CompuServe access telephone numbers for when you travel,  and much more.

You get to the Member Support area by clicking the Member icon at the Services window.

For complete WinCIM support, go to the WinCIM Support Forum on CompuServe (Go to WINCIMSUP).

Related Information

Contacting Customer Service

Troubleshooting Tips


This is the Member icon.  You'll find it in the Services window.


Tour/Find a Topic: Takes you on an online tour of CompuServe to learn about financial products, CompuServe Mail, CB Simulator, travel services, games, and more.


Command Summary/How to Use: Shows you the equipment and communication standards you need to connect with the CompuServe network, quick reference words that speed you on your way from one service to another, helpful hints about how to enhance your exploration of CompuServe, and more.


Ask Customer Service: Gives you answers to hundreds of questions asked frequently of CompuServe Customer Service representatives.


Membership Changes: Displays your membership information, such as address or billing method, password, whether you have the Executive Service Option, and so forth, so that you can review or modify it.


What's New: Keeps you up-to-date with new merchants and services, tips to increase the value of CompuServe, changes in billing, telephone numbers, or CompuServe itself, and more.


Practice Forum: Treats you to hands-on operational experience about how to use a CompuServe forum, as well as tips about using CompuServe through the various Practice Forum messages and libraries.


CompuServe Help Forum: Gives you access to the CompuServe Help Forum where you can ask questions about the Customer Information Service, attend discussions dedicated to CompuServe Mail, the File Finder, the various pricing plans available on CompuServe, and other service-related topics.


Billing Information: Lets you check charges for premium services, review your own current and historical account information, find out about the available billing options, and more.


Telephone Access Numbers: Displays telephone access numbers for the CompuServe network or for other available networks from various locations, as well as helpful procedures for logging on and logging off CompuServe, communications surcharges applied by the various networks, and more.


Order from CompuServe: Takes you to the CompuServe Store, where you can order CompuServe user's guides and reference manuals, books about CompuServe by outside authors, maps and drawings that will help with some of the games, CompuServe T-shirts and posters, and other related merchandise.


Rules of Operation/Copyright: Displays the rules of operation for CompuServe members.  You can also compare the Service Agreement Terms for personal and business accounts.


Member Directory: Gives you information about other CompuServe members.  You can also update your own member directory entry.


Special/Contests: Keeps you abreast of upcoming happenings, such as contests, service enhancements, shopping specials, promotions, bargains, and more.


Member Support Services: Takes you to a directory of international members support services.


Contacting Customer Service

If you wish to call CompuServe Customer Service, use the numbers listed below.

Country	Toll-Free	Direct

Argentina	(+54) 1-372-7883

Australia	008-023-15	(+61) 2-410-4555

Canada	(+1) 614-457-8650

Chile	(+56) 2-696-8807

Germany	0130 86 46 43	(+49) (+89) 66 55 0-222

Japan	0120-22-1200	(+81) 3-5471-5806

Korea	080-022-7400	(+82) 2-569-5400

New Zealand	0800-441-082

South Africa	(+27) 12-841-2530

Switzerland	155 31 79

Taiwan	(+886) 2-515-7035

United Kingdom	0800 289458	(+44) (+272) 255111

United States	800-848-8990	(+1) 614-457-8650

Venezuela	(+58) 2-793-2984

Elsewhere	(+1) 614-457-8650

Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM - MIDNIGHT, (13:00-05:00 GMT) (Eastern time, U.S. only).  Weekends from NOON - 10:00 PM, (1700-03:00 GMT) Eastern time (U.S. only).  Holiday hours and hours outside the United States vary.

If you wish to write Customer Service, use the address below.  Always include your User ID number with all correspondence.

United States

CompuServe Customer Service

5000 Arlington Centre Boulevard

PO Box 20212

Columbus, Ohio 43220

U.S.A.

United Kingdom

CompuServe Customer Service

15/16 Lower Park Row

PO Box 676

Bristol BS99 1YN

England

Germany

CompuServe Customer Service

Jahnstrasse 2

D-8025 Unterhaching

bei Munchen

Germany


Troubleshooting Tips

Commonly Asked Questions

1.	When I attempt to log on, the Information Manager keeps saying "Unable to establish protocol."  What should I do?

2.	Why won't the Information Manager hang up the line when I disconnect?

3.	I want to log on through a data network that the Information Manager does not support.  What should I do?

4.	My modem won't connect using the Information Manager, but seems to work fine in Terminal Emulation.  Why is this?

5.	How can I change my password?

6.	When I'm in PC Magnet and use the Go command, the Information Manager doesn't recognize ordinary services such as CB Simulator.  Why?

7.	I have two User ID numbers.  How do I get the option of logging on with either of them?

8.	Why does the Information Manager respond with an invalid address message when I try to send a fax?  I know the fax address is correct.


Establishing Protocol

The Information Manager uses a special protocol to talk to CompuServe.  After the Information Manager has sent your User ID number and password to CompuServe in order to log on, it will try to start using the special protocol.  If it can't, you'll see "unable to establish protocol".  Try the following to check for the most common causes of this error.

At your Session Settings dialog:

1.	Check the User ID number and password.  These cannot be your signup User ID number (beginning with 177) and your signup password.  If you haven't signed up your account yet, this is the reason for the error.  You should run the Signup program included with the Information Manager.

2.	Check the primary connection phone number.  You'll want to be sure this is CompuServe's current local access number.  If you are not sure that this is the correct number, call CompuServe Customer Service to check.

3.	Check the baud rate for the primary connection.  It should be 300, 1200, 2400, or 9600 baud.  Also check to be sure that your local access number supports the baud rate you are using.

If all of these are set correctly, the problem is probably static on the phone line interfering with your connection.  You can call CompuServe Customer Service for tips on dealing with line noise or to double-check all of your settings.


Getting the Information Manager to Hang Up

Try changing the Hang Up string in your Modem Control Strings dialog from its default "Z" to "Z0".


Logging on through a Non-supported Network or Shared Modem

You should try connecting through Terminal Emulation.

1.	Choose Session Settings from the Special menu.

2.	Choose Direct in the Dial Type box.

3.	Click OK.

4.	Choose Terminal Emulation from the Special menu.

5.	Click Manual Connect so that an x is displayed in the box.

6.	Click Connect.

7.	Type in the dial string for your modem, and go through the steps necessary to reach a CompuServe network prompt (Host Name:).

8.	Press Control+C to return to the desktop interface.

9.	Pick a menu item from the Information Manager desktop that initiates a connection (such as Get New Mail, Quotes, or one of the icons in the Services Window).


Modem Only Works in Terminal Emulation

The problem you are experiencing is due to the way your modem responds to the Reset command that the Information Manager executes when you click on the application icon.  Try entering a new Acknowledge string at the Modem Control Strings dialog.  Type a greater than sign (>) for the new Acknowledge string.


Changing Your Password

Changing your password involves two phases.  First you must change it online, using the PASSWORD service (Go to PASSWORD).  Then you must change it at your Session Settings dialog.


Navigating with Service Names

When you are in PC Magnet or ZiffNet/Mac, the Go command only transfers you within that particular part of CompuServe.

You must add a system name prefix to direct the Information Manager to the proper system.  Use CIS: for CompuServe, PCM: for PC Magnet, and ZNT: for ZiffNet/Mac.

Thus, when you are in ZiffNet/Mac and wish to transfer to the CB Simulator with the Go command, type CIS:CB.


Using Multiple Sessions in the Information Manager

You can create separate sessions for each CompuServe account and choose whichever you want to start the Information Manager.

By renaming the first session and creating a second Information Manager session with your second User ID number and password, you can then choose which account to use by selecting the appropriate Information Manager session in your Session Settings dialog.


Sending a Fax

You might be trying to send a message in binary format.  Fax servers cannot accept messages in binary format, so all fax messages must be in ASCII (text) format.

Messages typed into the Information Manager text editor or composed using Create Mail from the Mail menu are already in text format.  If you use Send File from the Mail menu and import a text file, make sure text is selected.


Viewing a GIF Image

The GIF Window displays a GIF image.

You get here by choosing [image] from certain dialogs, such as the File List dialog, the File Information dialog, and the Get File dialog.

Related Information

More about GIF Images


Save!: Takes you to a standard Windows Save As dialog so that you can save the GIF image to a file.


Copy!: Copies the selected portion of the image to the clipboard.  (To select a portion of the image, hold down the mouse button and draw a box around what you want to copy.  Then, after making your selection, click Copy!.)


Expand!: Enlarges the image to fill your screen.  (To return to the original window from the full-screen display, press return or click your mouse button.)


More about GIF Images

GIF stands for Graphic Interchange Format, one of the formats the CompuServe Information Manager uses to display graphics online.  (Other formats include RLE, which is not recognized by the Information Manager.)

GIF images will always display at the resolution of your monitor.  Color GIF files contain black and white and gray scale information as well as color information.  Therefore, if you retrieve a color GIF image on a computer with a monochrome monitor, it will appear as black and white.  If you then view the same image on a color monitor, the GIF image will appear in color.

GIF files are currently used to display weather maps and stock charts, and have the potential for other uses in the future.  There are also many forum libraries that contain a wide variety of GIF files contributed by CompuServe members.  In particular, the Graphics Support Forum contains several GIF decoder programs that let you view GIF files offline.

One of the advantages of GIF is that it is a format that can be read by many different platforms.  For example, an IBM user could exchange GIF files with a Macintosh user.