Downloading in a dangerous world
By Kathy L. Pursley
Associate Editor
Among the things Mother never told you should be included "Downloading can be dangerous." The most recent E-mail virus illustrates just how serious the issue can become. While the episode may have caused some to shun the Internet and E-mail for a few days, for most it is back to business as usual. A few small adjustments in your computer operating style may help avoid some of these problems in the future.
Viruses enter computer systems through files downloaded (transferred) from the Internet, shared across networks or transferred from disks or E-mail. E-mail viruses can be avoided to some degree by avoiding the preview pane option on the inbox, and by never opening any attachments until after scanning them with anti-virus software.
Anti-virus software can protect a computer by cleaning the culprits from its files, as long as the operator continually updates the virus definition files and routinely runs the software. The anti-virus software companies increasingly provide update files that must be retrieved from their Internet sites and downloaded onto the computer.
One way to increase safety of downloads is to direct the new files into a specific folder, and then prior to opening any of the new files, scan the folder for possible new viruses. Each web surfer must make a decision about the acceptable level of risk versus the payoff for downloading the new files.
Zip Utilities
On the Internet, multiple files often come compressed into one file that downloads faster in one operation. These compressed files have a .zip file extension. Handling these compressed files, requires an "unzipping" utility that decompresses the files. Many new computers come with one already installed, but the newer versions work faster. An unzipping utility is an essential download tool.
One utility available free can be found at http://www.winzip.com/downhome.htm. The file for IBM format Windows users called winzip80.exe contains 1,259,448 bytes. Before downloading, create a folder that will be the location for the new files. After selecting the download option at the web site, direct the new file into that new folder.
When the download finishes, the download box will disappear, or an install wizard box may appear in its place. Open the computer's file manager program, Windows Explorer, to look at the list of files inside the folder created for the download. For Windows users, the file probably will end with the extension .exe or .zip.
Scan For Viruses
At this point it is good idea to stop and run the anti-virus utility before opening any of the downloaded files. After the antivirus software scans the new files, if the newly downloaded file ends with .exe, double-clicking on the filename will begin the software installation process.
Installation
The download folder also may contain a file called Readme. The Readme file gives information for installing the software. If there is no Readme, look for a file called Install.exe or a file called Setup.exe. Double clicking these files will cause the software to take over the installation. It may ask questions as it puts the program files where they belong. Afterwards, the new unzipping program should be on the computer and available for unzipping more downloaded software. An icon or shortcut may appear on the desktop or in the startup menu.
Unzipping Files
Clicking on any file with the .zip extension starts up the newly installed unzipping program. A window appears, displaying the contents of the .zip file with menus at the top. Choosing the "Extract All" from the menu causes the program's dialog box to ask where to put the decompressed files. A good idea is to use the same folder initially created for the download. A progress bar shows the percentage of the files in the .zip file as they are separated into their original, uncompressed versions. When this process is finished, the new set of files probably will include an installer program, such as Setup.exe or Install.exe, and a Readme file. These file names have become part of the download routine.
Free Screen Saver
WaterWorld offers a downloadable screensaver at the web address, http://wwi.pennnet.com/content/extras/wwi/screensaver.htm. At this time, the only way to reach the download is by typing in this URL address. Scroll downward to find the appropriate version to download to your particular computer. The higher resolution versions will not run on lower resolution screens.
To use the screen saver after downloading it, go to the "My computer" icon and select the "Control Panel" and then, "Display." In the "Screen Saver" tab, choose the file name that matches the version downloaded. For example, if you downloaded the inst832.exe version, then the screensaver file will show up in the drop-down selection box as Wwi832. Click "Apply" and the computer will display water scenes whenever it switches over to the screen saver.
On-line Hach Supplies
Hach has introduced online ordering from its site, www.hachp3.com. The process uses the company's new secure e-commerce capabilities. Customers can place orders and receive an E-mail acknowledging each order, as well as an E-mail when the order ships. The web site also offers technical support and product information.
The company designed a premium points program, the Hach P3. Customers purchasing Hach products and solutions earn points based on purchases and participation in special events. The points can be redeemed for prizes such as adventure gear from REI, free trips from Apple Vacations or Hach instruments to expand laboratory capabilities. Customers using the web site to order Hach products receive bonus points for online ordering. Members can go to the web site to determine point values or rewards, redeem points and check account status.
Competitive Project Financing
Waterlink has launched a new web site, www.waterlinklease.com. The site enables U.S. companies and municipalities to explore and apply online for competitive lease financing for water and wastewater projects. The new site can be accessed directly or from Waterlink's site, www.waterlink.com. It provides lease financing options covering project costs for equipment, consulting, installation, field service, training and scheduled maintenance.
The company offers two different programs depending upon market size. The small market program for financing up to $100,000 allows users to choose from financing options at pre-approved rates. A calculator shows the impact choosing certain options would have upon monthly payments.
The large market program, for projects in excess of $100,000, provides lease financing rates based on the type of equipment desired and the customer's credit standing. These payments also can be estimated online. Under this program, a formal lease proposal can be submitted to the customer within 48 hours of receiving all required credit and equipment information.
Redesigned Web Site
The new Chlorine Chemistry Council web site, http://c3.org features a totally new look. The more intuitive setup and design makes it easier to locate information from the over 700 documents available on chlorine. The web site is a resource for learning more about chlorine and its history of saving lives. The online order form makes it easier to order free information brochures and teacher education materials. A powerful search function helps locate particular information on chlorine.
EPA Launches New Homepage
The Environmental Protection Agency launched its new Internet home page, www.epa.gov, in April to mark the 30th anniversary of Earth Day. The new design is aimed at making environmental information more accessible. The redesigned epa.gov offers users nine different pathways to access EPA's information universe.
A collection of regional environmental progress reports, prepared especially for Earth Day 2000, is now available and is linked directly to the home page. The reports are collectively titled "Remember the Past - Protect the Future."
The "Laws and Regulations" button leads the user directly to the major environmental laws and dockets under EPA's jurisdiction. The "Information" button takes the user to EPA's many hotlines, list servers and clearinghouses. The "In the News" cover page offers reports of recent events, and EPA updates it frequently.
The new site's more sophisticated search engine enables users to navigate faster and execute searches more easily. The web site retains all of the features that have made it one of the most frequently visited sites among federal agencies. In March, users logged more than 90 million hits on the site.
Laboratory Outsourcing
LabSeek.com is a business-to-business Internet exchange for scientific measurements and knowledge. It provides access to scientific testing and expertise for outsourcing. LabSeek has entered into agreements with member labs who have personnel and facilities to provide testing, research and consulting services. The lab then may prepare a service proposal and LabSeek will generate a project proposal for consideration. If the proposal is accepted, the customer uses an online service request form to specify the methods for analysis of each sample or identify the regulations and agency under which or for which the analyses are to be prepared.
Laboratories recently joining the group include Activation Laboratories, Advanced Surface Microscopy, Amphotech Ltd, Austin Energy Analytical Laboratory, BioTools Inc., Chemic Laboratories Inc., Diazem Corporation, dmc2 Degussa Metals Catalyst Cerdec Corporation, Genetic Technologies, Independent Inspectors Corp., Industrial Analytical Services, Ithaca Materials Research and Testing, MicroMaterials Research Inc., NATLSCO, and the Nitrate Elimination Corporation. Earlier members include BP Amoco, Impact Analytical/Michigan Molecular Institute, Pace Analytical Services, Phillips Petroleum, RPC (Research Productivity Council), Ticona Chemical and the University of Missouri's Research Reactor.
Ordering Pumps Online
Moyno, Inc. is currently marketing its new line of Ramoy general purpose industrial pumps at its web site, www.moyno.com. Users can order from the complete line after browsing features and benefits, applications and performance information. A selection guide assists visitors in choosing the proper Ramoy pump. The guide processes the service requirements and pump type and determines the optimum pump model(s). The site provides secure order processing and five-day shipment for most orders.
Free Hat Contest
Wilden Pump & Engineering Company has recently launched its newly re-vamped web site. Visitors to www.wildenpump.com can browse through the company's online catalog of pumps and accessories. The site provides technical information ranging from downloadable CAD drawings and manuals, to a unit conversion calculator and a comprehensive chemical resistance database. In addition to improved navigation and multilingual browsing capabilities, the site offers a Wilden pump troubleshooting guide. The online technical support answers pump questions. Visitors may register to win a free Wilden hat.
Lookout Demo
Visitors to National Instruments web site at www.ni.com/lookout/lkevaluation.htm can obtain a free evaluation copy of its Lookout software. Before downloading the evaluation copy, another page located at www.ni.com/lookout/webdemo.htm offers an online demonstration.
The company designed its Lookout industrial automation software for solutions ranging from simple HMI to complex networked SCADA applications. Lookout's object-based technology requires no programming or scripting and offers networking capabilities to connect to multiple servers and multiple clients inside the organization and at remote locations to monitor and control the system processes.
Lookout 4.0's web capability allows an operator to use a standard web browser to control and monitor processes from anywhere in the world. The web site also offers online catalog information and purchasing, as well as technical information.
Technical Information Exchange
Lovejoy Inc. has established a new web site, www.couplings.com, as a resource for users and designers of mechanical power-transmission shaft couplings. Experts may submit informative articles to the site as well. Visitors can view currently available articles designed to provide helpful and practical information about shaft couplings and rotating equipment. The site's home page displays the links to three sections, articles listed by title, a couplings seminar index, and information about submitting articles. A search page finds appropriate articles by key words or phrases.
Groundwater Pump Specifications
Blackhawk Environmental Company announced its new web site at www.blackhawkco.com. The site features pumps and pump control products designed for groundwater and other environmental applications. Visitors can select a pump for a particular application, download a manual and request a catalog. A "Let Us Help You Choose" section asks detailed questions to allow the company to determine which of its pumps fits the specific application.
Free Gift
McElroy Manufacturing will introduce and demonstrate the No. 14 Pitbull at the AWWA Annual Conference and Exposition on June 11-15. The machine builds on the success of the first modular PitBull machine introduced in 1996. The smaller unit boasts a robust refined body structure and versatile performance in the trench, outside the ditch, and in the most difficult of field conditions. The web site www.mcelroymfg.com/juneworld provides more information about the No. 14 Pitbull and offers a free gift for visitors that register.
Please send your comments and suggestions to i-Water Report, WaterWorld, 1421 S. Sheridan Road, Tulsa, OK 74112 or send E-mail to [email protected]