The Platypus Shareware collection has become a complex beast. Previously, every Platypus program was a self-contained entity. To install it, you merely put it on your hard disk, and cranked Hypercard for color. To enable us to bring more power to our suite at less cost to you, both in money and in disk space, we have sacrificed some of our previous simplicity of structure. We have encapsulated some bulky resources common to many programs all in one place. This creates dependencies, but it gives you more bang for your downloading buck because you do not have to have duplicate copies of resources attached to each individual stack. It makes our life easier too. When you update something in the shared module(s), it is automatically updated for all the programs that use the module(s). The only thing that you have to redownload is the module that has been updated. The fact that you can register our programs even if they are on a CD is cause for additional complexity. We hope that the tremendous savings in disk space, and the convenience of being able to run programs directly from a CD is worth the sacrifice.
What does the installer do?
We like to think that our programs, once installed, are simple to use. To be consistent, we want our installations to be simple as well. The last thing we want is to complicate your life with complex installations. Ergo, the Platypus Installer. Ugly, but effective. You select the packages you wish to install and press Install. The installer script specifies what files are needed. It asks you where the files are; you tell it. In most cases they are fine right where they are. It sets up some interdependencies between certain files. It will let you know if you are missing any necessary pieces. This installer does not create any hidden files. So if you decide that a module is not appropriate for you, you can easily throw it in the trash.
Do I have to register before I can install the program? Or is it the same?
No, it's the other way around. You should install the programs to preview them properly. Installing a program is not the same as registering the program. Installing is just setting it up correctly. Registering means entering a personalized code to enable all the features.
These programs are cool. How do I get a registration code?
You write a check for a trivial amount (varies from program to program, usually around $5.00,) put it in an envelope, and mail it to us. If you have our online catalog, the entire registration process is automatic. It even addresses the envelope for you. (Well, actually, you still have to write the check or P.O. and put a stamp on the envelope.) If you provide an email, within approximately 24 hours you will be emailed a code so you can enable your program as fast as possible. Whether you have email or not, you will be mailed a letter of authorization (with the code on it) to use the software past the trial period. When the program asks for your code, you enter it, and you will get access to everything in it. It will probably never bother you again unless you have to reinstall for some reason. For this reason, you should keep your code in the same place you keep the little piece of paper that came with your combination lock. There are no additional or replacement files to download when you register, and you do not have to reinstall.
This installer is freeware, but as it is designed for a specific use, may not be copied or distributed in any form except as part of the Platypus Software Collection.
Please address any correspondence regarding this program to:
