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Downloading Files:
Applies to: Win XP Win 2000 Win Me Win 98 Win 95
CAUTION: Before you carry out your first download, make a unique folder to store all downloaded files (such as - "DownDec02" for files downloaded in Dec 2002). As soon as the file is downloaded, go to the folder, highlight the file, and scan it for viruses.
The second reason for a unique folder is to find the file after it is downloaded.

PREAMBLE
There are basically 4 types of files that are actively downloaded from the internet:

  1. Condensed - The most common of these is .ZIP. Condensing makes it faster to transfer the file from the internet site to your computer. The .ZIP file can contain numerous files inside it. You require a special program [Such as WINZIP] to restore it to its orginal state. WINZIP link for download is on the Software page.
  2. Executable Programs - These files are self-expanding programs that usually include the ability to install when run. The suffix type is .EXE
  3. Media - There are numerous file types associated with media.
    .MP3 is a common one for music.
    .JPG & .GIF are common ones for graphics.
    .MPEG & .MOV are common for movies, etc.
    Each of these types usually have special programs for running them. Members should suggest their favourites for the software page.
  4. Documents - Examples of these files are .TXT {text} or .DOC (MS Word) or
    .PDF (Adobe Acrobat Documents). If the latter, then you require ADOBE ACROBAT READER which is linked for download on the Software page.
TO DOWNLOAD:
  1. Click on the program name located on the Software page.
  2. After arriving at the linked site, find the point that the site uses for downloading the file.
  3. If clicking on the link does not work, right click and select 'Save Target As...'
  4. Make sure that the choice for the destination is the special folder you use only for downloading.

Once the applicable item is downloaded to your special folder, you can then move it to permanent storage in another folder. You can leave the original form of the item (ie. .ZIP & .EXE ) in the download folder in case you have to re-install them. All others should be stored in an associated folder for the type of item. The steps below are for systems (programs) that have been downloaded and require installation....

  • Step 5: If the item is .EXE, then just double-clicking on it should install it. Follow the normal installation instructions
  • Step 6: If the item is .ZIP, then you must have WINZIP (or equivalent) installed. WINZIP link for download is on the Software page. It uses Step 5 above.
  • Step 7: Click on the .ZIP item and WinZip will automatically unzip it into a temporary folder and open a separate window showing the files expanded from the .ZIP.
  • Step 8: In the temporary folder created by WinZip, locate SETUP.EXE or INSTALL.EXE and double-click on it. Follow the normal installation instructions.