SNOWBIRD FREE Browser/Viewer

(If you already have Internet Explorer, there is a  a cool accessibility trick  for  at the bottom of the page)

A browser is something that lets your computer get around the internet easily, and that enhances your viewing pleasure. You already have one, or you wouldn't be able to see this page. But you could probably do better.

There are two common ones out there - Netscape & Explorer. Which one you use is up to you....but we think that there is one smart choice.

Internet Explorer IE 5.0 + (the VHS of the internet)

This is the free web browser provided by Microsoft that allows you to see websites (like ours) in all their glory.

Why do we recommend this? Well it's not because it's superior to Netscape!

Some people argue that Netscape is better - and they may be right. Although I.E. 5.0 does have some cool accessibility features.

The bottom line is compatibility - Like it or not, most North American commercial websites are built to be compatible with Microsoft products. (Its a bit like the days of VHS vs. Betamax. Betamax was superior quality, but VHS had more movies. Same with the internet.)

This means that most websites will load more quickly and with fewer glitches if you are using Explorer !

Below is a link to a free download site where you can get IE 5.O at no charge. Bear in mind, this is a HUGE program, and takes a while. So we have set the link up so that when you click on it, a new window will open up and once you've followed the instructions, you can download in the background and continue to visit with us.

Free Download Now  

ADOBE ACROBAT VIEWER

This is a pretty useful program that allows you to view certain kinds of files ( they have the letters 'PDF' in their names).  

If you don't have it yet, you are going to need it. Once again, we don't think the program is that great but it is used as a standard by a lot of companies. It's used to display documents like brochures and application forms in this format.

Free Download Now

ACCESSIBILITY/ENABLING

This is a bit of a cause for us. One of the great things about the internet is that it is (or should be) accessible to all.

We found a backwater of Microsoft, that has free downloads and information on making the computer more 'friendly' for those with physical challenges. While much of the information focuses on services for the visually impaired, there is some good stuff on keyboard shortcuts. 

There is also some stuff on the accessibility features of I.E. 5.0

Even if you don't have physical challenges, it's a good site to visit. The tips are generally useful, and well worth referring to others.

http://www.microsoft.com/enable/training/steps.htm

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