[LibertyBelle]

I completely understand the 5 post probation limit for new members. I can live with the profanity filter in the chat, whatever, that's nothing to be upset about.

But, I'm starting to suspect that many of the more draconian behavior controls for RealChat are enabled: http://www.realchat.com/doc/cc-server-behavior.html

I've only come to this conclusion after not being able to log into the chat repeatedly, and not for lack of trying. I've repeatedly tried clearing my cache, restarting my internet connection, using other internet connections, using other operating systems (firefox, ie, opera, safari). I've examined the source code (using Firebug not just "view page source". I've made extra sure javascript is enabled and that java is updated. I've tried clearing my cookies (by moving the ones that appeared since I joined to a flash drive) and tried different combinations of those cookies (by moving them back) only to end up putting them all back.

Then I started looking into the chat system itself, and found RealChat. I'd really appreciate knowing which "behavior controls" I'm subject to, so I can make sure to modify my behavior and stop looking for computer and network problems that likely don't even exist.

Yes I have been able to chat. I've had some very good chats and a couple of less ok ones, but overall it's been very good. Yes, I've typed a few swear words into it, but I would've made 100% sure not to do that if I knew it would get me kicked out for 24 hours. I'm a reasonable person, I'm here for ADHD and grief support but telling a technologically inclined person that there's no real problem and to just clear the cache, try a different browser or try later, will drive her CRAZY trying to fix a problem that doesn't exist.

[sabby]

It is possible that the _ in your username may create a login problem at times. It's also possible that if you are using a satellite interent connection, you may not be able to join chat.

Just a couple of thoughts. Sorry it's been so frustrating for you.

[DocJohn]

We do not implement any "behavior controls" in chat that would keep someone from entering chat in an unreliable way. If we have to suspend someone's chat privileges, we PM them before we do so with the specific reason why. Everything we do we try and be as transparent as possible to the member, because without explanation, it's unlikely a person's behavior can change.

As for your technical problems, it's likely one of the two things sabby already mentioned. We can change your username to see if that helps.

The other thing to try if you haven't already is a different web browser altogether. I've never had a problem using Firefox to access chat, and often use Google's Chrome as well.

Best,
DocJohn

[LibertyBelle]

Originally Posted by sabby

It is possible that the _ in your username may create a login problem at times. It's also possible that if you are using a satellite interent connection, you may not be able to join chat.

Just a couple of thoughts. Sorry it's been so frustrating for you.

My internet is via a Nokia n900 tethered to my computer using T-Mobile cellular service.

Originally Posted by DocJohn

The other thing to try if you haven't already is a different web browser altogether. I've never had a problem using Firefox to access chat, and often use Google's Chrome as well.
Best,
DocJohn

Haha, I just noticed I had referred to browsers as operating systems. I meant to say that I've tried 4 different browsers (Firefox, IE, Opera, & Safari) in 4 different operating systems (WinXP, Win 7, Ubuntu, & OSX). Firefox is my preferred browser on my main machine.

Thank you both for your swift replies.

[DocJohn]

Since the chat room requires a constant, non-lagged connection to maintain service, it's probably just the way the chat room is coded + the way you're accessing it (through a cellular connection). If the chat server senses an interruption in the connection, even for a few milliseconds (for whatever reasons), it's likely to drop the connection thinking the user dropped off.

Sorry about that.