This technical bulletin explains the steps to follow to optimize Windows 98 Explorer’s accessibility with Dolphin products.

Introduction

As in Windows 95, Windows 98 Explorer forms the basis of most filing operations. Most of the keys and functionality of the Windows 98 version are the same as the Windows 95 version. Therefore, previously recommended settings under Windows 95 hold true for Windows 98, notably, the removing of the folder panels and viewing in "List" or "Details" format.

However, Windows 98 has brought some differences. These changes have been mostly introduced to simulate web pages, hence there are some additional tips to follow in order to remove the HTML processing. Namely, each folder can have a Java script associated with it to perform special actions and it is these actions which we recommend disabling.

Optimizing Windows 98 Explorer

To configure Windows 98 Explorer to work optimally with Hal, Lunar or Supernova, do the following:

1. From the "View" menu select the "Toolbars" sub-menu and unselect each of the toolbars.

2. From the "View" menu, select the "Explorer Bar" sub-menu and unselect each of the toolbars. (The other options in this sub-menu call up a toolbar providing quick access to various Internet sites.)

3. From the "View" menu, unselect the option "as Web Page". (When Web Page view is selected, Explorer contains an additional panel looking like a web page, governed by Java scripts).

4. From the "View" menu select "List" or "Details".

5. From the "View" menu select the "Folder Options…"..

6. In the first property sheet ("General"), select the option button "Custom".

7. TAB to the "Settings" button and press SPACEBAR.

8. In the "Settings" dialog, select the "Classic Desktop" option button.

9. TAB to the next group and select the option to view each folder in the same window.

10. In the "View Web Content" group, select the option to "View in only folders I choose".

11. In the "Click Options" group, select the option "Double click to Open, Single Click to Select".

12. TAB to the OK button and press SPACEBAR to return to the "General" property sheet.

13. Press CONTROL+TAB to move to the "View" property sheet.

14. Select the button "Like Current Folder" to make all folders behave in the same way you have just selected.

15. TAB to the "Advanced Settings" group and cursor through the options in the tree. To change an option press SPACEBAR, note that the computer will beep.

16. Unselect the option "Remember each folder’s view settings".

17. Unselect the option "Hide file extensions for known file types".

18. TAB to the "Close" button and press SPACEBAR. (There are no settings in the "File Types" property sheet which require alteration).

The changes are now complete.

Reading the Windows 98 Start Menu

For users experiencing problems with Hal/Supernova’s reading of the Start Menu items in Windows 98 please follow these steps:

1. In the Start Menu select Settings by pressing S
2. Press T to enter the Taskbar dialog box
3. From within the Taskbar Options property sheet select "Show small icons on Start Menu"
4. Select OK

The change is now complete.

Assistance

If you require additional information or need further assistance with these issues, please contact your local Dolphin Technical Support Department: