Here is my point of view on how to decrease your time reading the growing &
growing volume of msgs on alt_photo_pro :
There are more than 500 users in this list, the generated traffic grows
consequently.
Of course on these 500 members, I'll say that no more than 15% of them (us)
are active... And that's a chance. Imagine if 500 alt-photo freaks were
active... In this case Steve would have some problems on his link/router
(I don't even talk about his Service Provider).
We should follow some rules :
1. For everybody :
1.1 Always give a subject to your msg. The more complete, the more
efficient.
1.2 Before you ask, check the FAQ's, ARCHIVE... (BTW Steve, I have
several times tried to get the FAQ's and the archive... But it doesn't
appear to work! -And I've followed your instructions!).
1.3 When replying, 'snip' the original, or better if possible don't
send it back. Sorry for those who have no memory (Think it's a good
exercise).
1.4 Avoid msgs without relations to alternative process. There are
other lists for these msgs. Go & look 4 them.
1.5 Avoid long header/footer on the msg itself.
1.6 When you subscribe to this list, don't forget to note how to
unsubscribe... (SIGNOFF)
1.7 If you are a 'newbie' -like me-, first listen then talk!
1.8 Do NOT forget that we certainly don't use the same systems to
communicate. A very good knowledge of your mailing and/or OS is very
imortant!
1.9 Be aware that this list is UNIQUE! Do not f?!k up!
1.10 Libraries, bookshops,... are other sources of knowledge. (Tough
in many countries you can't find a lot about alt_photo)
2. Dial In Access (Account)
2.1 Try to call off peak hours.
2.2 Verify your link has the best quality possible.
2.3 Change your modem, look for a higher speed one (28k8). If
possible! (For HU, you can go faster than 9600!!!).
2.4 Optimize your modem and OS config (Swap, cache,...)
2.5 Read & write off line (Seems to be evident!)
2.6 For Europe (I don't know for AU, US,...) switch to Euro-ISDN.
You'll then have 64kbits/s. For example in KPN (NL) there's a special
offer consisting in changing your classic PSTN line to a Euro-ISDN +
Internet Access (This is a real offer for what I've seen!).
2.7 Don't forget to signoff if you go for a couple of days.
3. LAN / WAN
3.1 Check the hierarchy of your Network.
3.2 Enhance the velocity of the router.
3.3 Use complete mailing programs. Preferably with rulers in it.
(Example : Beyond Mail for Banyan Vines....). Without any knowledge in
computer programming you can easily build a rule that automatically reject
msgs without subject, classify the new msgs in folders depending on the
subject and/or the author. It's a real message clerk.
3.4 If you can differ-postpone the sending time of the msg, do it!
Finally, be comprehensive, be cool and have fun!
P.S : Personally I don't think there's too much to read...
P.P.S : Try to avoid such long msg! ;-)
CU dudes,
DIM
dimitri.dussart@is.belgacom.be