AlphaWorld Frequently Asked Questions

A FAQ (rhymes with "back") is an invaluable compilation of questions
gleaned from previous support conversations and serves as your first
stop in getting help from Worlds Inc.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

What type of computer/software do I need to use AlphaWorld?
AlphaWorld can operate in any of the following environments:

Intel (x86-based)

Windows 3.1
Windows for Workgroups 3.11
Windows 95
Windows NT

Processor: 486/66MHz
Disk Space: 10MB
RAM (Min.): 8MB
RAM (Rec.): 12MB

What type of modem do I need to use AlphaWorld?
We recommend using a 14.4-Kbps (or faster) modem. AlphaWorld will also work
at 9600 bps.

What type of Internet account/access do I need to use AlphaWorld?
To make the best use of AlphaWorld, your service provider
must allow direct access to any site on the Internet
through a SLIP or PPP account. (PPP is a newer protocol and is considered
better than SLIP). Talk to your Internet provider if you are unsure about
your available access capabilities.

What other software do I need to use AlphaWorld?
AlphaWorld requires a Winsock TCP/IP stack. Depending on your method of access
to the Internet, other utilities may be required. Your Internet access
provider can fully explain particular software needs and help you configure
your system for AlphaWorld.

FEATURES

How does scene caching work in AlphaWorld?
AlphaWorld uses a disk cache for scene information.
The cache is persistent, meaning that files
are kept locally on your machine for fast viewing.

If you enter an area that is in the cache, AlphaWorld will show you
what that area looked like the last time you were there. It also
checks with the server to see if the area has changed since the last
time you were there.

Why doesn't AlphaWorld delete all of these files
in its cache directory when it exits?

See the preceding question; the AlphaWorld disk cache is a persistent ?
cache.  It is used to cache scenes across sessions of the program, so
that you only have to download changes to any area even if
you don't visit it until days later.

ALPHA WORLD FOR WINDOWS

Does AlphaWorld work with Windows 95 or NT?

In our tests, AlphaWorld works with Windows 95 and NT 3.5 except that
text is not displayed when people are talking. This is being worked on.

Does AlphaWorld work with Windows for Workgroups?
Yes. We have tested AlphaWorld with Windows for Workgroups 3.11.
Please note that the Wolverine TCP/IP stack doesn't support a dial-up
connection to the Internet.

Which Winsock software does AlphaWorld for Windows work with?
AlphaWorld should work with any Winsock 1.1-compliant TCP/IP stacks,
including the following:

Trumpet Winsock 2.0e
FTP Software PC/TCP
Network Telesystems TCP Pro
NetManage
Microsoft Windows For Workgroups (Wolverine) (Note: This software doesn't
support modem connections to the Internet)
Microsoft Windows NT

We've heard particularly positive reports from customers using the Trumpet
Winsock 2.0e
