o save time, you may want to read these instructions while downloading software. You can print them out or open another browser window--go to the File  menu and select New Web Browser or New Window. Place the browser  windows side by side to read one while downloading from the other.

Browser
We recommend you navigate The Senior Care Network with Netscape Navigator or Microsoft Internet Explorer.

Downloading Software
The first step: decide where you want to put downloaded files. You can create a new directory on your computer for this purpose. Using the Options menu to choose preferences in your browser, pick Applications and set this new directory as your Temporary Directory. In this manner you will find downloaded files easily in order to delete them once you have installed them.

Virus Alert
You want to avoid getting a virus when you download software. Make sure you have some PC virus software which will detect and remove any viruses from the downloaded software.

Locate and Download
Most programs you download will be compressed for speedy delivery to your machine. With most software you download, you must decompress and install it. If you have Windows 95, Windows NT, or Windows 3.1 try getting some decompression software from the WinZip site or from CNET's  Shareware.com site: Win  3.1 version or Win 95 version.

Once you have installed what you need, go to the temporary download  directory you created in the Options menu and drag the compressed file into the trash--you no longer need it.

Check Your Preferences
If you were downloading browser software, and followed the above instructions, then you've already set up your browser! First, open your browser by double-clicking on the icon in your program group. Next, check your preferences. Go to Options in your browser menu and select General Preferences. Then select Helpers, to confirm your browser is set to look for the helpers you've downloaded. Netscape's default settings should take care of this for you. If something you need is missing, click on New and type in the requested information.
       
Chat Software
You can talk live with other viewers of The Senior Care Network, experts from various fields, and others in our face-to-face events. To participate,  simply go to the Chat Page. There is nothing      to download, and no programs to learn. Simply enter a nickname (required)  -it can be anything you desire, then press "o.k. connect!" That's it. You will see a listing of all the user names to the right, and their comments will be posted automatically on the left. Type in a comment, and  press enter.  You will see your own comment posted in the  conversation window. If you're using a Java enabled browser such as the latest version of Netscape or Microsoft Internet Explorer, you should not encounter a problem. If you have an older browser you will not be able to chat. Simply download the newest version of your  browser and install it. After your new browser is installed, you will be  able to chat.

If you encounter a problem that this help file cannot assist you with, please use  our Comment Form, or send an e-mail to: srcarenet@email.com.