FAQS! FACTS! FAX 068  (05/08/97)

TAKING THE BISCUIT

On the Internet, I frequently get a message to say I have a  ‘Cookie’ followed by a file number. I am then asked if I want to accept it. There is a threat that the page I am downloading will not be complete if I say ‘no’. What are Cookies, are they dangerous, should I accept them or not?

Tom Holloway

A

Cookies are generally harmless. They’re small packets of data, kept by your internet browser software and stored on your hard disc; you should find them filed under ‘cookies’ inside your Windows directory. They’re created and used by the webserver computers you access, to help them configure the way web pages are presented on your PC, they also speed up access and file transfers.

Whenever you select or key in a web site address your browser first checks to see if you’ve been there before, if so there may be a cookie, which it sends, along with the request for the web page, so the web server doesn’t have to waste time finding out what software you’re using. Cookies can contain a variety of information including whether your browser can display frames, or just text. If the site has restricted access the cookie will include your password, PIN or account number or a range of personal preferences. This information will only be passed on to the specific web site that compiled the cookie in the first place. They cannot be used to divulge your e-mail address, unless you have already provided it, by filling in a form, when you previously used that web site.

MISSING MACROS

Recently I found myself re-installing all my software from scratch (you really don't want to know the details), but when I tried to re-create my old macros in Word, the Macros label in Tools had disappeared altogether. I managed to get  the Macros label back by customising the menu, but nothing happens when I click on it. Where have all my macros gone?

Marc Jardine

A

If you manually deleted the Word directory from your C: drive your macros are now in software heaven, lost and gone forever. If however, you used the Word or Windows 95 uninstaller, or re-installed Word over the existing copy, then they should still be there; normally they will be left untouched, though they may have become disconnected from the new installation. Assuming that you are using Windows 95 use the Find utility on the Start Menu to look for the ‘normal.dot’ file, where the macros you created should be residing.

WOOD FOR WINDOWS?

I have just purchased a Pentium PC to replace my 486/66DX. I wish to use my old 486 for controlling my router woodworking tool, so that it can be used to make house name plaques. Can you please advise me if there are any hardware or software packages that can be used to control machinery?

Paul Bentley, Harmondsworth, Middlesex

A

We’re not aware of any equipment that can be used with your existing router, but computer-controlled woodworking tools certainly exist. The CNC 860K Machining Centre from Trend Technical will do everything that you require, and much more. It comes with CNC Talk control software, that runs on any IBM compatible PC with a 386 (or higher) processor.  It can also be used with OSS (Open Sign System) CAD/CAM software, which has been specifically written for signwriting and routing applications. Now for the bad news. The CNC 860K costs around £10,000 and the OSS software will set you back another £1,575. If anyone knows of any cheaper solutions we’ll gladly pass them on, in the meantime you can get more information about the Machining Centre and OSS by phoning (01923) 249911, or visit the Trend web site at: http://www.trendm.co.uk/cnc.html.

APPLE ACCESS

I have an Apple computer and I want to get on the internet, please could you give me a list of servers for an Apple, and their telephone numbers. Secondly, I am going to buy a Sony Playstation and have a few questions. Is there going to be another price cut soon, and when does Formula One 97 come out?

O. Redrup. Quorn, Leicestershire

A

Almost any make or type of PC, that can be connected to a telephone modem, can be used to access the internet. Virtually all of the main internet service providers (ISPs), including CompuServe, BT, AOL etc., have Apple MAC browser software. You can often find them on magazine cover-mounted discs and CD ROMs, usually with a 30-day free trial offer.

Sony inform us that there are no plans for any further price reductions for the Playstation in the foreseeable future, and Formula One 97 from Psygnosis Software is due out in October.