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Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.0.1: problems and solutions

Previously, we posted some initial reports of problems with the recently released Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.0.1. Since then, several more issues have surfaced: a. Java problems (and Text Encoding Converter) Many readers are reporting problems with the Java feature of MIE 3.0.1. For example, Cary Felbab writes that "anytime I go to a page with Java in it, the program crashes when trying to start the Java applet. This did not occur in the beta version of 3.0.1." Doug DeMoss similarly writes that MIE 3.0.1 crashed every time it tried … Read more

Utility updates

a. TechTool Pro 1.0.4 coming Expect a TechTool Pro 1.0.4 update to show up shortly on MicroMat's web site. According to Luke Hamburg: "It fixes a long-standing bug with the file tests under 7.5.1 (falsely reporting Finder damage)." b. FreePPP 2.6b3 is now available for testing. The only changes are bug fixes. c. Sloop 1.0.1 is the latest update to this window navigation utility. d. Mac Identifier 2.1 is out. So is the first bug report I have received about it: Tom Macki reports that it froze … Read more

Odds & Ends

a. More on ghosting Regarding Apple's hopeful assertion that Mac OS 7.6.1 should fix most ghosting problems with monitors attached to Power Mac 6340/6400s, I continue to get user reports that the problem persists. b. Apple coming attractions Two articles from MacWEEK offer a glimpse at Apple's upcoming software and hardware. c. Total Recall: DiskEssentials, Peace of Mind As noted in a recent MacWEEK article, Total Recall plans to release a new data recovery suite called Disk Essentials. It will include three separate utilities: DiskWatch (a problem prevention program), DiskRx (a repair utility) and StopLoss (… Read more

More Microsoft Internet Explorer issues

Readers continue to report problems with using the Mail and News feature of Internet Explorer 3.0.1, including system crashes that occur when quitting the Mail window. Note: If you decide to remove Internet Explorer, you may have trouble with the Installer's Remove function. The details are on a Microsoft web page (as spotted by Tom Mackie).

Internet Config settings problems

Rob Dewhirst reports that installing RealAudio 3.x or RealPlayer 4.x will erase your Internet Config settings and replace them with its own. David-Artur Daix (as well as the Macintosh Resource Page for April 16) describe similar Internet Config changes when using Microsoft Internet Explorer. On a related note (and possibly also related to launch problems with Internet Explorer 3.0.1, as previously reported here) Ian Oliver writes that Explorer's release notes "detail a problem with RealPlayer 4.0 beta. Evidently it causes some damage to the 'Internet Preferences' file in the preferences folder. Removing this … Read more

Macintosh Basic Troubleshooting site

Either it's a recent addition, or I have not noticed it before, but Apple now has now a Macintosh Basic Troubleshooting web site. By selecting your symptom through a series of questions, you (hopefully) eventually arrive at Apple's recommended solution. As its name implies, the information is on the "basic" side, but many users will still find it useful.

5500/6500 L2 cache problem: a permanent fix available

Update As previously reported here, Apple has released a 5500/6500 L2 Cache Disable extension that "temporarily disables the L2 cache on your computer allowing you to install system and application software without the symptoms mentioned above." According to a recent MacInTouch item, the ultimate cause of the problem is a defect in a printed-circuit board from one of Apple's suppliers. Currently shipping units no longer have this "problem" board. Apple will repair affected systems that have previously shipped. Call Apple Assistance at 800-500-7078 for more information. Update: Several readers report that, after they call … Read more

Half minute startup delay in Mac OS 7.6.1: Apple responds

Apple has now given an official reply to yet another matter: the approximately 30 second startup delay that many users report after updating to Mac OS 7.6.1 ( as covered here at MacFixIt). Taken from Apple's Performa Discussion Board: "Apple's engineers are investigating these reports to determine the cause. When we get more information we will make available. Please keep in mind that many things can cause delays in starting up. These include being on a LocalTalk/EtherTalk network, having large amounts of RAM, having many external devices or a large number of extensions. It is … Read more

PowerBook 3400 RAM problem: a follow-up

Speaking of Apple's Portable Computers Discussion Board, I can now confirm the statement from Apple on the PowerBook 3400 RAM unseating problem ( as described last time). Apple officially describes the foam pad "part" needed to fix the problem as the "RAM Gasket Fulfillment Kit." Again, "the kit is available at no charge from Apple-authorized service providers. Ask for part number number 922-3103 (GASKET,FOAM,KEYBOARD). Or you can call the Apple Assistance Center and request the Kit. (Soon there will be a phone prompt in place to route you directly to a team supporting … Read more

PowerBook 3400 battery problem; Apple replies

Reports have been bouncing around for the past several weeks about a problem with running a PowerBook 3400 on battery power. In brief, the problem is that the 3400 will sometimes shut down (when running on battery power) if pressure is applied to the case, usually while typing. When this happens, the only way to restart the computer is to plug in the AC adapter. Apple has now given an official reply to this, on its Portable Computers Discussion Board: "This problem has cropped up on some machines but not on all of them, by any means. Apple engineering … Read more