I'm getting a lot of questions about downloading. I will try to answer the questions here.
First, from the current registration agreement:
Quote:
|
Downloading: If you're signing up only to download stuff, you won't be able to do so soon. We don't want people signing up just to download. We want people to join and participate to help others; that is the point of forums. We therefore have several download restrictions in place. Please search the Feedback Forum if this is an issue for you.
|
Second, you probably want to know what you need to do before you can download. Here's a quick rundown. Please remember that I may raise or lower some of the numbers in the future, and other things may very well change depending on the needs of our community.
You will need a certain combination of participation before you can use the download/upload functions. This means that you will not be to download or upload (that's right, download and upload are 'bundled', so you cannot upload while you're waiting for privileges to download) until you reach a certain level. (The forum software will automatically determine this, and I will not override the software by request.) Your level of participation is determined by one or more of the following:
- Number of posts (100): Currently you need to have at least 100 posts to satisfy this requirement. N.B.: Do NOT make fluff posts. (E.g., great job! or thanx or IMO, D) Consider the length of your post (excluding quotes of other members). Excessive 'fluff posts' could result in your being banned.
- Waiting period (30 days): You can't sign up now and download now. Sorry.
- Reputation points (10): Make a good, helpful post, and you'll get 'repped'. Different members have different rep-giving powers. New members can generally give 0 or 1 point only. More established members can give more, typically 2 to 5 points. A few members, usually the ones with a lot of rep points, can give 10 or more points.
I can't state specifically what the formula is beyond what I've explained for two reasons. First, I will likely tweak it further. Second, some parts of the forum's algorithms are complicated and undocumented, so only the original coder knows.
The bottom line is this: I never intended these forums to be a file repository. I enjoy interacting with other smart, motivated people. I don't run this forum for profit, so I'm not concerned with low traffic.