----------------------------Original message---------------------------- Hi Dave (et al.), I was waiting this statement to come. Each of us reads things and, based on our backgrounds, access to people with greater knowledge, etc., come to understandings (be they correct or incorrect). If all of us waited to say anything until we reached the level of abject expert, this list would likely be very quiet. This list is a place where we can have discussion on things about which we have read and respond to statements based on that which we think. Through the responses of others more knowledgable than ourselves we undertake that most horrid of experiences -- education. I ascribe to the philosophy promulgated by many but practiced by few -- there is no such thing as a dumb question. I also suggest that questions may sometimes be disguised as statements. The response to my statements has been most interesting and enlightening. I appreciate what I have learned from those much more knowledgable than myself. But my lack of understanding is not unusual in our group. When one asks "what is the real difference between ..." on a computer question, the answers that come tend to border on deep levels of computer hardware and software design. But clarification of misunderstandings of higher level ideas don't occur. This is a place to share ideas, views, problems, concerns, and questions. And many times it does feel like the blind leading the blind. But slowly, surely, we approach the light. We rely on the higher level experts to enlighten us. I am largely unafraid to ask questions and to look "dumb" to others. And, as David Cobb pointed out, how are we to know that someone really knows what they are talking about. One person talked to the folks on her campus who build computers. I would think they know what they are talking about. But someone else challenged what was posted about their response. This is a chance for the experts to help guide the non-experts. Rather than belittling misunderstanding, how about enlightening. In some ways, this is not the place, but so many of us are now dealing with having to learn this and learn it quickly that we don't have time to get a full blown picture. When someone posts a comment or question about computers, software or hardware, I always look forward to Dave's comments. I learn. And maybe I irritate. That's life. Debbie Lords Cataloging Division/Systems Division Marriott Library University of Utah ****** START OF FORWARDED MESSAGE ****** Both statements are somewhere between seriously misleading and totally wrong. If you need computer help, PLEASE try to get it from someone who knows what they are talking about. I don't give map advice, please don't y'all go fouling each other up with erroneous "information". Dave Dave Gomberg, role model for those who don't ask much in their fantasy lives. GOMBERG@UCSFVM Internet node UCSFVM.UCSF.EDU fax-> (415)731-7797 For info on West Coast Live send email to [log in to unmask] ****** END OF FORWARDED MESSAGE ******