Connecting to #FlyCon Author Chats using an IRC Client


The quick, straight into it link

Or, if you are familiar with IRC , then the server is irc.sff.net and the channel is #Flycon .

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For everyone else:

IRC stands for Internet Relay Chat. It is a method of online chatting that has been around for many years, predating instant message programs. One of its advantages is that there are many different ways to access it, depending on your circumstances and preferences. It's like email in that way -- many ways to do it, but they all give you the same end result. And like email, you have to make sure the address you are using is the right one.

To keep this simple, only two methods of getting to the chats are offered here.

First method:

The easiest way to participate is to use this java client, via this link . (Client is the word for an IRC program or interface.) For most people, it is simple to use yet has some bells and whistles.

If the above option does not work or you have an older computer, you can use the Light version of the java client, via this link . It is very basic, but it will do the job.

Once there, click in the cursor box so you can type.

Getting errors?


Second method:

If you are moderating or want to experience IRC properly, then it is recommended that you download a dedicated client (that is, a program that is used just for IRC.) Vortec is the client we are recommending for these chats, because it seems to be the easiest to set up and use if you never have before.

It takes a few minutes to set up the first time you use it, but this only has to be done once, unless you want to change servers (address to use).

Instructions for setting up Vortec.

Problems? Temporary email adress to get help .

Once you are connected, you might find the following commands of use:

/nick newname

/me does something

/query othername

/join #newroom

/quit
Change your nickname

To do an action

To talk to someone in private (use this to get help too)

Join another room

Leave the chat and disconnect from the server


Chatroom Netiquette
borrowed from SFF Net

Until you're accustomed to the way conversations appear in Chatrooms, it may be a bit confusing to follow at first. Don't worry, you'll soon be getting the hang of how messages appear simultaneously and sometime in no discernable order. It's a good idea to simply observe conversations for a while until you're sure of the flow and tenor of the conversation. Just as in face-to-face communications, it is considered rude for someone to abruptly elbow into an existing conversation exclaiming "Just let me tell you about MY day!"

It is, however, considered polite to say hello to the room when entering and goodbye when leaving. Also, as in other facets of life, the simple pleasantries of "Please," "Thank You" and simply listening and responding kindly are invaluable.

Don't forget that Chatrooms are NOT private. Anything that is said can be recorded without your knowledge by anyone in the room - in fact many people make a habit of logging every conversation for their own reference. Don't say anything you wouldn't want to have repeated on the evening news.

Be very careful revealing personal information such as phone numbers, addresses, etc. in a chatroom.