New Computer Hope Live chat

[Computer Hope Admin]

I have recently completed setting up the new Computer Hope Live chat. So far this new system looks to be a vast improvement over the earlier chat system one of the biggest features is the ability for the system to let users know when no one is available to chat with them and to try an alternative solution. In addition to this feature the system also supports logging, enormous amounts of stats including stats of the user you're talking to (helpful to know when need to know OS/Browser), and many more great features.

The system is web based, running PHP/MySQL, so should not run into the issue with people not being able to connect because all running on the Computer Hope server. Accessible through the main online help section ( http://www.computerhope.com/oh.htm )

If any of the forum members who have been participating on the forums would like an account to help volunteer with assisting chat users please let me know either through this post and/or through a PM and I'll set you up an account.

[Calum]

I'll go ahead and volunteer.
I'll send a PM as well, just because I feel like it.
Sounds like a good improvement, I'll check it out later on.

[Zylstra]

Now, should a chat operator log in the same as usual at www.computerhope.com/chat.htm or by using a IRC client, or should an operator login somewhere else?

[Computer Hope Admin]

I'll go ahead and volunteer.
I'll send a PM as well, just because I feel like it.
Sounds like a good improvement, I'll check it out later on.

Account setup, PM sent.

[Computer Hope Admin]

Now, should a chat operator log in the same as usual at www.computerhope.com/chat.htm or by using a IRC client, or should an operator login somewhere else?

The above URL actually hasn't been converted to the new convention yet. Hopefully should get it done with the monthly updates today/tonight. Operators will login through: http://www.computerhope.com/chat

As far as I'm aware at this point however I'll need to manually setup the accounts for any operators who wish to participate. Once setup you'll have the ability to adjust your account to whatever you wish.

[Calum]

It turns out I have experience of this same chat system on another site, so I actually know what I'm doing.
Yay.
Anyway, thanks for setting me up on it.

[HollywdTM]

I'll go ahead and volunteer too!
I'll send a PM as well, just because to remind you.
Sounds like a good improvement to ComputerHope

[Calum]

Awesome.
The more the merrier and all that.

[Dilbert]

I won't be available on a regular basis, but I'd like to be set up with an account, so I can help out when I'm available. (School leaves no uncertainty...)

[Zylstra]

You know, the new system (though its automatic refreshes sometimes stop your typing) is quite nice

I think its much easier for the user side, being that its not multiple person and all.

The Auto Invite feature does get you more users, letting them know that someone is actually there waiting for them

[Computer Hope Admin]

I've already sent some of the users a PM discussing this, but for any other new users who are interested in participating in the Computer Hope chat I kindly request that you be part of the Computer Hope community (participate on the forums (few dozen helpful posts))  before I manually setup you an account.

Regarding the typing getting stopped while typing, I completely agree that it can be aggravating, especially if it erases what you were typing. Here are a few things that have helped me on this issue.

1. Have it running in it's own window, if in a tab section of the window seems to cause issues. Looks like the developer is aware of this issue, possibly a fix sometime in the future.
2. Check the box for "Alert of Visitors". This will alert you anytime someone visits the page (not requesting help yet), but for me has resolved the issue of loosing the chat window/chat text.

[Zylstra]

I was on another computer trying it out for a first time, and I was having the problem (using FireFox)
Then I tried it on my laptop (using FireFox) and it worked fine. I dont know why.
But then again, I dont have Quicktime on my laptop, so it doesent make any noises, just gives me a little box at the top of my screen asking to install missing plugins.

But, its very VERY worth helping someone and gettings a big "Thanks!" in reply. (Even if you cant help them, and end up directing them here)

[Blackberry]

I would like to help too!

Should I send a pm too?

[Computer Hope Admin]

I would like to help too!

Should I send a pm too?

PM sent with login information.

[Calum]

Works great for me, but I had a few issues.
Can't recall them now but I'll post them if I run into more later.
I agree, lots of people say thanks, more than on the forums.
It's more personal too, but the auto greeting can get on some people's nerves.
I had a guy ask me if I was a bot as well.