Online chat uses an internet facility known as Internet Relay Chat (IRC)
to allow multiple people to discuss a common topic. Individuals connect to
a server and join a channel that has been set up for the topic they are
interested in. Channels are also known as "rooms" in some
chatting circles.
Software Needed
Use of chat requires that your computer have software installed. Computers
in the labs don't have chat software installed, so chat is not available
there. At home you may use any compatible software you have
available.
This web site has links which will
let you join a chat using MSChat and mIRC. MSChat is available with
Internet Explorer. MIRC is a shareware package available here.
You may also use other chat software, but the links on the web site
won't run them automatically.
Installing and Using mIRC
- Download it.
- Install it following the instructions provided. Be sure to
install it in the directory suggested (usually C:\MIRC) - I have
had problems when I installed it under installed under Program
Files or other directories containing spaces.
- Test it out by connecting to a chat room manually. You can use
our class chat - #c++ on server oscar.ctc.edu.
- Set up your registry so our web site links will work. You can
run
mirc.reg if you used C:\mirc
as your install directory. Otherwise, save and edit it to put in
the correct directory and then before run it.
Installing and Using MSChat
- Install MSChat as part of your IE install or update.
- Web links are automatically entered in your registry.
- On some systems, you may still need to enter the actual chat
room manually.
