It decodes both uuencoded and base 64 encoded messages. Just drop a message, or messages, onto it, or open from the menu, and it (they) will be decoded. The program can determine the encoding method and decode accordingly.
What it does better than similar programs:
It decodes files faster than any other similar programs now available. On my 7100, it can decode a 2 MB uuencoded file in about 5 seconds. Anything smaller than 128K will be decoded on a PPC instantaneously. Your mileage may vary. Actually, you'll never get 2MB decoded in 5 seconds. I've added some calls to make Decoder more friendly to other processes and to display a progress bar for large files. This effectively doubles the run time to 10 seconds for a 2MB files. But smaller files are now decoded even more quickly than earlier versions.
It can handle files of any size.
Some braindead newsreaders put all kinds out junk into messages. When downloading, they sometimes concatenate all the segments into one big file, with junk in between. This program can make sense out of files like that and decode correctly.
It can handle "imperfect" files much better than other decoding programs. Some programs give up if the encoded format isn't just perfect. This one keeps trying and trying and ....
It will decode segmented files automatically. Just make sure the segments have file names that are in correct alphabetical order. Then, just drop them on the program. Feel free to decode UUencoded and base64 files at the same time.
There is a preferences option that provides a facility to assign creator codes and file types to decoded files. Case is insensitive for the extension field in the preferences section. You can also specify if you want the decoded file opened automatically.
Installation:
Just put the Decoder program where you want it. I have included a preferences file to handle some of the most common image files. Place this file in the Preferences folder inside your system folder.
What it does not do:
Lots of stuff. This program is not intended to be a mail reader or complete MIME parser. Check out Cyberdog, Claris Emailer, or Eudora Pro for that functionality. All it does is extract binary data from encoded files.
About Shareware:
This program is being released as shareware. I know, I like freeware as much as the next person, but my goal is to make a living as a Mac programmer. I've already gotten paid for writing Mac programs and I like it! I'm also very poor and I need the money. This program won't change those last two points, but it might help alleviate them.
This program will only run 50 times. After that, you will have to reinstall it.
Your responsibilities:
If you try this program, like it, and want to continue to use it, please fill out the registration form, enclose $10 and send it to:
Columbine Technology
P.O. Box 270423
Fort Collins, CO 80527
You will receive a registration number via email or snail mail. Just enter it and you're legal.
Registration entitles you to free upgrades and free tech support via email at
Columbin@concentric.net
Look for updates and other programs at:
http://www.concentric.net/~Columbin
If, during the process of evaluation, you find a file that Decoder cannot decode. Please let me know and, preferably, send me a copy of the file. I'll be ever so grateful.
