7.4 What is a Mini-BBS?

As STFax differentiates between voice/fax/data calls, you could quickly route an incoming data call to STFax's internal mini-BBS.

Indeed, a user could also use distinctive ring to support voice calls and the mini-BBS on one phone line, but using two different phone numbers.

The mini-BBS allows any caller to upload files to open or secret doors, list files available (from the download file list) and choose one or more for downloading, change doors (ie. protected and secret doors may be available) or message a STFax account holder.

Three examples where a mini-BBS would be useful:

1. A graphic design company could use the mini-BBS to allow clients to upload files inside and outside of office hours. Indeed, by using 'doors' within the BBS, a client would be able to upload to specific accounts. Again, a STFax user could be auto-notified if a file is sent to their account or the file could be forwarded, via email.

2. A software company could use the mini-BBS to provide updates, patches and software support to customers who are not connected to the Internet.

3. An office worker who works from home could log into the mini-BBS, enter a secret door and upload files to the remote machine, from his local machine. This might be ideal for a worker who prefers to work part time from home and can quickly upload work, when requested, using a high transfer rate.