Web Assistance and HELP!
Downloading, using, opening and viewing documents, audio and zip files from ffa.org.
Select from the menu. Links to support software are available within each section.
HELP Menu
- Using Zip Files
- Using .pdf Files- Adobe Acrobat
- Flash Player
- Audio
- Internet Browsers
- Access FFA: Website Standards and Network Admin Help
- Microsoft Products
- AOL Users
- Learn About SPAM
- Contact Webmaster
NOTICE from the FFA WebTeam!!!
In reviewing website statistics we are noting many users have not upgraded their internet browser or web assistive support software such as Adobe Acrobat, Flash and more. There are several users whom are still using older browser versions which have been identified as to having security issues or other problems.
We would like to encourage ALL users to upgrade to the most recent version of these programs to ensure and provide the utmost security and access to all websites. Before any upgrades are completed, please check with your local or school network administrator for local policies on installing and upgrading software to the systems used in your local program.
Please use the following help guide to assist you:
Network Administrators A letter for to explain to your local network/systems administrator what type of access and programs you require to interact with ffa.org.
Zipped Files (.zip)
Files that have a .zip at the end Example: agent_app.zip
To safely download and open .ZIP files, when the dialog box appears asking whether you want to save or open the file, you MUST choose to SAVE the file to your PC - preferably your desktop. Once the file is saved, you can open the ZIP and extract the file inside.
Windows XP has a built in Unzip tool. You can also use"
StuffIt Expander; Coffee Cup Zip Wizard or WinZip (one-time, 21-day evaluation only)
Adobe Acrobat Reader for .pdf files
We have received information that some users are having problems opening .pdf files. We have thoroughly checked all these files from office and external computers to ensure they are operating correctly. In troubleshooting problems, we have found a common reason why these files are not opening..
- Adobe Acrobat Reader has not been upgraded. Upgrade Acrobat Reader here.
Macromedia Flash and Player
If you have problems view movies or other Flash items it could be that your Flash player is out of date. Upgrade your Flash Player.
Audio/Video Formats and Players
If you are using a PC, you should already have Windows Media Player. If you are on a Mac you should already have Quicktime. If you are on a PC and are having problems with certain audio or video files you can try using iTunes/Quicktime
Recommended System Specifications: (Access FFA)
Browser: Internet Explorer 6x with current security updates
OS: Windows XP/2000, still support Windows 98 until
- Access FFA A guide to the recommended system and software along with resources for additional assistance and help.
- Network Administrators A letter for to explain to your local network/systems administrator what type of access and programs you require to interact with ffa.org.
- Microsoft Product Support (.pdf)
Recommended Internet Browsers
- PC/Windows: Internet Explorer 8 or Firefox
- MAC: Safari
MicroSoft™ Corporation Products:
National FFA Organization recommends working with your local computer; system or network administrators to ensure the current patches and recommended updates have been installed. Many recent updates to Microsoft Software are related to security issues.
- Microsoft Product Support (.pdf)
To check or verify if you need software updates
Microsoft Office Update Assistant: http://office.microsoft.com/home/default.aspx
Click 'Check for Updates'
Microsoft Operating Systems: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/default.mspx
Click 'Windows Updates'
Microsoft Internet Explorer Support Center: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?pr=ie
For computer hardware, software and network support, please contact your local system or network administrator. National FFA Organization can only provide guidelines and resources for access to our programs. Network and computer policies are supported and determined by your local state and district school administrations.
Documentation for your Network or System Administrators: Click Here
NOTE to AOL™ Users:
The Internal browser installed with the AOL software is a version of Microsoft Internet Explorer that has been modified in a way that it "compresses" graphics into a AOL specific format (.ART) this allows the images to load marginally faster. The problem with this when viewing websites is it tends to distort the images, layout, fonts and overall web pages when viewed through this internal browser.
Caching: AOL caches or stores a copy of web pages on their internal web servers. In doing this, when a AOL user requests a page from the web, they are receiving a page from AOL's internal cache and not necessarily the original or most updated page available. This causes many problems some forms and features of websites, java, and other things, will NOT work for AOL customers. To overcome this cache issue, try forcing the page to 'refresh'.
We recommend once you have connected to AOL
- Minimize or make smaller your AOL Connection.
- Double Click on Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator
- Surf the web using the independent browser.
Still Need Assistance?
Contact the Webmaster.
Make sure to let us know the following:
- Type of Computer your are working on (Windows or MAC)
- Type of Internet Browser and Version
- File or Page you are trying to view or download
- Error you are recieving.
This will allow us to better assist you with your problems.
