Welcome to eCollectica Publishing's Online Help Page.


Thank you for purchasing the Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide CD-ROM and Internet Resource. If you are visiting this page it is probably because you have questions about installing or using your Antique Clocks Guide.

We hope we can answer your questions online, right now, with the links below. If you have a question or problem that is not covered by the solutions below, please contact us at cdsupport@ecollectica.com for additional assistance.

Note: The Antique Clocks Price Guide uses pop-up windows. Anti pop-up software must be deactivated to use all the features of the guide.

 

 
Help with installing the Antique Clocks Guide
 
 
Help with opening the Antique Clocks Guide after installation
 
 
Help with viewing or navigating the Antique Clocks Guide after it is open
 

Changing the appearance
 

Help with connecting to or using the online portion
 

Help with searching the Antique Clocks Guide
 
Help with changing your Registered User information
 
 
Internet error messages you may get; what do they mean?
 
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When I double click on the icon "Clocks.pdf", nothing happens.

There are two main possibilities why nothing happens when you click on the icon "Clocks.pdf".

1. You do not have Adobe Acrobat reader 4.0 or above installed on your computer.

Viewing the Antique Clocks Guide requires Adobe Acobat Reader 4.0 or above. If you do not have Acrobat Reader installed, you will not be able to use the Antique Clocks Guide.

Solution: Acrobat Reader is supplied on the Antique Clocks Guide CD. To install Acrobat reader, insert the CD into your CD-ROM drive, double clock in the CD icon "Antique Clocks Price Guide", and then double click on reader 4.0 Installer to install Acrobat Reader.

2. You have Adobe Acrobat reader 4.0 or above installed on your computer but have not yet used it to open the Clocks.PDF file for the first time.

Solution: If the Acrobat Reader application is not already opened, find the Acrobat reader program on your computer and double click its icon to start the Acrobat reader program.

Then open the Clocks.pdf document by doing the following:

  • Click the Open button (icon showing a "folder" on your Acrobat Reader toolbar), or choose File > Open. In the Open dialog box, select the Clocks.pdf document, and click Open.

This will "set" the Antique Clocks Guide file to be opened automatically by Acrobat Reader from then on when you double click on the icon "Clocks.pdf".
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When I double click on the icon "Clocks.pdf" I get an error message

When double clicking on the icon, "Clocks.pdf" some users may get an error message telling them to "choose an application" or that "the document Clocks.pdf could not be opened because the application that created it could not be found", or something similar.

There are two main possibilities why you get an error message when you click on the icon "Clocks.PDF":

1. You do not have Adobe Acrobat reader 4.0 or above installed on your computer.

Viewing the Antique Clocks Guide requires Adobe Acobat Reader 4.0 or above. If you do not have Acrobat Reader installed, you will not be able to use the Antique Clocks Guide.

Solution: Acrobat Reader is supplied on the Antique Clocks Guide CD. To install Acrobat reader, insert the CD into your CD-ROM drive, double clock in the CD icon "Antique Clocks Price Guide", and then double click on reader 4.0 Installer to install Acrobat Reader.

2. You do have Adobe Acrobat reader 4.0 or above installed on your computer but have not yet used it to open the Clocks.PDF file for the first time.

Solution: A: After you have installed Acrobat Reader, return to your "Clocks.pdf" icon and double click on it. If you get a dialog box asking you to "choose an application", drill down through the directory showing your files until you find Adobe Acrobat Reader, and then double click it to open.

Solution B: Another option is to run the Acrobat Reader application first and then open the Clocks.pdf from within Acrobat Reader.

To open the Clocks.pdf document do the following:

  • Click the Open button (icon showing a "folder" on your Acrobat Reader toolbar), or choose File > Open. In the Open dialog box, select the Clocks.pdf document, and click Open.

The Antique Clocks Guide should now open. This will also "set" the Antique Clocks Guide file to be opened automatically by Acrobat Reader from then on when you double click on the icon "Clocks.pdf".

For more information about what a "PDF" format is, or about Adobe Acrobat reader, click here.


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Other problems opening a program - and possible solutions.

  • The program may already be open. Check your task bar at the bottom of your screen (Windows users) or the Application menu in the upper right corner of your screen (Macintosh users) to see which programs are open. If you do not see Acrobat reader open, be sure to open it and then try opening your Clocks.pdf file.

  • There may not be enough memory available to open the program. Quit any other programs you are not using and then try again. If that doesn't work, try restarting your computer.

  • The program may be damaged. If either the Clocks.pdf file or the Adobe Acrobat Reader program are damaged, the Antique Clocks Guide cannot be read. Try reinstalling the Acrobat Reader program from the CD and/or run the Clocks Guide installer program again from the CD.

  • The program may be incompatible with your computer. Please to see the minimum Windows or Macintosh requirements needed to use the Antique Clocks Guide.
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The Antique Clocks Guide text is too small to read.

TIP: If you are not familiar with Adobe Acrobat, we strongly encourage you to use the Adobe Help file that may be accessed using the "Help" function on the top menu bar once Acrobat is launched. You can also visit Adobe's Acrobat Reader User Support web page.

You can increase or decrease the magnification by using the tools in the Acrobat Reader toolbar found above the Clocks Guide to resize the page. Please note that the text and color images will look the best if viewed at 100%.

If you need to magnify a page to a size larger than the window, use the hand tool to move the page around so that you can view all the areas on it. Moving the page with the hand tool is like moving a piece of paper on a desk with your hand.

To increase magnification do one of the following:

  • Select the Zoom In Tool , and click the page.

  • Click the triangle next to the magnification value box in the viewing toolbar, and choose a magnification level.

  • Select the Zoom In Tool, and drag to draw a rectangle, called a marquee, around the area to magnify.

  • Click the Zoom In button in the viewing toolbar.

See screen shot below for two examples of ways to increase or decrease the magnification:

TIP: If your Bookmarks (Section Headings) are open on the left side of your screen, you can clocse the Bookmarks by clicking on the "Show/Hide Table of Contents" link at the bottom of the page. This will automatically increase the size of the text and images.
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The Antique Clocks Guide pages are too big to fit on my computer screen.

TIP: If you are not familiar with Adobe Acrobat, we strongly encourage you to use the Adobe Help file that may be accessed using the "Help" function on the top menu bar once Acrobat is launched. You can also visit Adobe's Acrobat Reader User Support web page.

You can increase or decrease the magnification by using the tools in the Acrobat Reader toolbar found above the Clocks Guide to resize the page. Please note that the text and color images will look the best if viewed at 100%.

If you do not want to decrease the magnification, If you do not want to decrease the magnification, you can use the hand tool to move the page around so that you can view all the areas on it. Moving the page with the hand tool is like moving a piece of paper on a desk with your hand.

To decrease magnification, do one of the following:

  • Select the Zoom Out Tool , and click the page.

  • Click the triangle next to the magnification value box in the viewing toolbar, and choose a magnification level.

  • Select the Zoom Out Tooll, and drag to draw a marquee the size you want the reduced page to be.

  • Click the Zoom Out button in the viewing toolbar.

    Note: When the zoom-in tool is selected, you can press Ctrl (Windows) or Option (Mac OS) while clicking or dragging to zoom out instead of in. When the Zoom Out Tool is selected, press Ctrl or Option to zoom in.

See screen shot below for examples of ways to increase or decrease the magnification:
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The color images and/or text in the Antique Clock Guide look distorted or fuzzy.

TIP: If you are not familiar with Adobe Acrobat, we strongly encourage you to use the Adobe Help file that may be accessed using the "Help" function on the top menu bar once Acrobat is launched. You can also visit Adobe's Acrobat Reader User Support web page.

The color images are optimized for viewing at 100% magnification. They may appear fuzzy or distorted if viewed at a magnification of less than or greater than 100%.

You can increase or decrease the magnification by using the tools in the Acrobat Reader toolbar found above the Clocks Guide to resize the page. Please note that the text and color images will look the best if viewed at 100%. If you do not want to decrease the magnification, you can use the scrollbars to move the page from left to right or up and down.

See screen shot below for ways to increase or decrease the magnification:
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I am unable to access parts of the Antique Clocks Guide when I click on a blue link.

In order to access parts of the Clocks Guide, you must have your web browser running and be online with your Internet connection Try connecting to the Internet via your usual method and then return to the Clocks Guide. All the links should now function normally.

If you can access some of the links but get an error code when trying to access other links, you can check these error code explanations to find out why.

 
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I get an error message when I click on a blue link in the Antique Clocks Guide

If you click on a blue link in the Antique Clocks Guide and you get an error message that reads something like "Unable to locate the server www.clockspriceguide.com. Please check the server name and try again." (Netscape users) or "The attempt to load 'Accessing URL: www.clockspriceguide.com/cdhome.taf' failed" (Internet Explorer users) or some similar error message, it means you are not currently connected to the Internet. Try connecting to the Internet via your usual method, make sure your web browser is open, and then return to the Clocks Guide. All the links should now function normally.

If you can access some of the links but get an error code when trying to access other links, you can check these error code explanations to find out why.

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What software do I need to use the Antique Clocks Guide?

To receive the full benefit of this CD-ROM, two different software packages are necessary:

1. Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or above (included on your CD)

The Antique Clocks Guide is formatted as a "PDF" file. Adobe Acrobat Reader® is a software program that allows you to view PDF files. PDF stands for Portable Document Format. It is a method of formatting files that will appear just as they were created regardless of the type of computer or operatin system one is using. Many computer operating systems come with Adobe Acrobat Reader software included. However, if you do not already have Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or above installed on your computer, or if have a version older than 4.0, you can install the current version of Adobe Acrobat Reader that has been included with your Antique Clocks Guide CD.

For more information about Adobe Acrobat reader you can visit the Adobe web site.

2. Internet Browsing Software (4.0 or above)

Many computer operating systems come with Internet browsing software included. There are several locations on the Internet where you can download the most current version of a free browser. Three of those sites are listed here:

  • Internet Explorer® (available for Windows and Macintosh users)
  • Netscape® (available for Windows and Macintosh users)
  • Opera® (available for Windows, Macintosh, and other operating systems)
The Antique Clocks Guide is also compatible with AOL® 4.0 and above, and Web-TV®


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For help with installing your Antique Clocks Price Guide CD-ROM:

First, please choose your computer platform:

Windows® Users

Macintosh® Users


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To print these installation instructions, click here for a printer-friendly page

Installation for Windows users:

Step 1. First, make sure you have the minimum system requirements.

Step 2. Insert your Antique Clocks Guide CD into your CD-ROM drive.

Step 3. Double click on the icon, ÒMy ComputerÓ on your computer desktop.

Step 4. Double click on the CD drive icon, ÒClocksÓ

Tip: You will find three icons in the window that opens. One is named" Readme" (or "Readme.txt") The Readme file contains the quick start installation instructions. You can double click on the Readme file to open it and print the directions for easy reference if you wish.

IMPORTANT: The next step requires that you have a current connection to the Internet. If you are not already online, connect to the Internet through your normal connection procedure. Then return to your previously opened ÒClocksÓ window.

Step 5. Double click on the icon ÒInstallÓ (or "Install.exe") to begin installing the Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide.

    1. A welcome screen opens first. Click the "Next" button at the bottom of the screen.

    2. The next screen gives you a shortened version of the installation instructions found here, as well as tips on getting started. When you want to move to the next installation step, click the "Next" button at the bottom of the screen.

    3. The next screen shows you the software license agreement for the Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide. You must click the "Agree" button at the bottom of the screen to continue the installation.

    4. Next you will see a dialog box that tells you that you need to be connected to the Internet to proceed to the next step.

      • If you are already online, click the "OK" button to continue.

      • If you are not already online, you must first connect to the Internet through your normal connection procedure. Then return to your previously opened "Clocks" window and run the "Install" program again to get to this point of the installation procedure again.

    5. Next, the installation program will quickly check your computer configuration to see if you have Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or higher installed.

      • If you are already have Acrobat Reader 4.0 or higher installed, click the "OK" button to continue.

      • If you DO NOT already have Acrobat Reader 4.0 or higher installed, a dialog box will appear stating that you need to install Acrobat reader. Click "OK" to install Acrobat reader.

    6. Next, your web browser should open and take you to eCollectica Publishing's Secure Online User Registration form. Only registered users can access all pricing data and other special features found on the online protion of your Antique Clocks Guide.

      You will be asked to enter your CD-Key during the online registration process. The CD-Key is the 16-digit code found on the label inside your CD case.

      You will be asked choose a user name and password the first time you register the software. This user name and password will allow you to access the integrated ClocksPriceGuide.com web site when using the Antique Clocks Price Guide.

      Make sure you fill out the online registration form completely, and then press the button at the bottom of the page that reads "Please Register My Antique Clocks CD".

    7. Next, you will see a page that tells you your registration is complete and that you can begin enjoying the Antique Clocks Guide.

    8. Return to your computer desktop and double click on the icon "Clocks.pdf" to open and use the Antique Clocks Guide.

 

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Installation for Macintosh users:

Step 1. First, make sure you have the minimum system requirements.

Step 2. Insert your Antique Clocks Guide CD into your CD-ROM drive.

Step 3. The CD-ROM icon, "Antique Clocks Price Guide" will appear on your desktop. Double click on the CD icon.

Tip: You will find three icons in the window that opens. One is named Read Me". The Read Me file contains the quick start installation instructions. You can double click on the Read Me file to open it and print the directions for easy reference if you wish.

Step 4. Tip: If you know you already have Acrobat Reader¨ 4.0 or higher installed on your computer, you can skip this step (Step 4.) If you are unsure, install Reader anyway. Double click on the icon "Reader 4.0 Installer". This will begin the installation of Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0. Click the button "Continue" and complete the Acrobat Reader installation procedure.

IMPORTANT: The next step requires that you have a current connection to the Internet. If you are not already online, please connect to the Internet through your normal connection procedure. Then return to your previously opened "Antique Clocks Price Guide" window.

Step 5. Double click on the icon "Price Guide Installer" to install the Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide. You'll be guided through the final installation and online registration process described below:

  1. A screen with installation instructions opens first. You can click the Print button to print the directions for easy reference if you wish. Click the "Continue" button at the bottom of the screen to proceed with installation.

  2. The next screen shows you the software license agreement for the Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide. You must click the "Agree" button at the bottom of the screen to continue the installation.

  3. Next you will see a dialog box that tells you that you need to be connected to the Internet to proceed to the next step.

    • If you are already online, click the "OK" button to continue.

    • If you are not already online, you must first connect to the Internet through your normal connection procedure. Click "Cancel" and then "Quit" to end the installation. Then connect to the Internet. Then run the "Price Guide Installer" program again to return to this point of the installation procedure.

  4. The Antique Clocks Guide PDF file will now be installed on your computer's hard disk.

  5. Next, Adobe Acrobat Reader will open automatically to display the opening pages of the Antique Clocks Guide.

    NOTE: If this is the first time Acrobat Reader 4.0 or higher installed has been opened on your computer, a dialog box will appear with an Adobe software license agreement. Click "Agree" to continue.

  6. Your web browser should open and take you to eCollectica Publishing's Secure Online User Registration form. Only registered users can access all pricing data and other special features found on the online protion of your Antique Clocks Guide.

    You will be asked to enter your CD-Key during the online registration process. The CD-Key is the 16-digit code found on the label inside your CD case.

    You will be asked choose a user name and password the first time you register the software. This user name and password will allow you to access the integrated ClocksPriceGuide.com web site when using the Antique Clocks Price Guide.

    Make sure you fill out the online registration form completely, and then press the button at the bottom of the page that reads "Please Register My Antique Clocks CD".

  7. Next, you will see a page that tells you your registration is complete and that you can begin enjoying the Antique Clocks Guide.

  8. Close your browser window. The Antique Clocks Guide will be already open and ready to use.
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What portion of the guide can I use without being connected to the Internet?

You do not need to be connected to the Internet to use the following sections of the guide:

  • Introduction
  • How to use This Guide
  • Section 1: A Brief History of Clocks
  • Section II: What Is Your Clock Worth?
  • Section III: Identifying Your Clock Type: An Illustrated Glossary (in this section you will need an Internet connection to see more than one example of each clock type)
  • Section VI: Tips On Dating Clocks (most of this section)
  • Appendix A: Dictionary of 10,175 Clock and Watch Makers
  • Appendix B: Wood Identification Guide
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What portion of the guide needs an Internet connection for viewing?

You need to be connected to the Internet to use the following sections of the guide:

  • Section III: Identifying Your Clock Type: An Illustrated Glossary (in this section you will need an Internet connection to see more than one example of each clock type)
  • Section IV: Learning More About Clock Types
  • Section V: Finding Your Clock's Values: 4,000 Clocks With Photos, Descriptions, Values
  • Section VI: How Old Is My Clock? Tips and Methods For Determining Age (a small portion of this section requires an Internet connection.)
  • Section VII: Links To Online Clock Dealers
  • Section VIII: Links To Additional Online Clock Resources
  • Section IX: Index to Clocks
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How can I search the Antique Clocks Guide for specific words, a specific clock, a manufacturer, or other subject matter?

There are two methods of searching:

1. To search the offline portion of the Guide (CD contents only):

You can use the Find Function built into the Adobe Acrobat Reader toolbar (see illustration, below). Click on the find icon in the toolbar to open a search box.

TIP: This search method is best when you are looking for a word or phrase in the narrative text portion of the Antique Clocks Guide

Clicking on the "binoculars" (Find icon) on the Acrobat Reader toolbar will open up the "Find" box (shown below).

2. To search the online portion of the Guide the Registered Users web site with the 4,000 clocks):

  • Method A: Click on the Index To Clocks (Section IX), accessible from the Table of Contents. From the Index to Clocks you can find clocks by Clock Type, Country of Origin, or Clockmaker or Manufacturer. You must be online to use this search function.

  • Method B: Click on the 4,000 Clock Values (Section V), accessible from the Table of Contents. You will be taken to the online search page of the Antique Clocks Guide. From here you can enter a key word or phrase to quickly search through the descriptions of 4,000 clock. Enter one or more keywords in the search box on the left and then click the Search Now button. You can find more extensive search help by clicking the appropriate link on the online search page once you are there.You must be online to use this search function.

    TIP: Search Method B is best when you are looking for a word or phrase in the descriptions of the 4,000 clocks portion of the Antique Clocks Guide
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401 - Authorization Required

The creators of a Web page may want only certain people have access to that page. There are several ways to limit access to a Web page, including password protection. You may get the "401 - Authorization Required" error message when you try to view a Web page with limited access. (A Web site may have a customized version of this error message, such as a screen saying "Access Denied" or "Unavailable.")

If you don't think you should be getting this error:

  • Make sure that the Web address (or URL) that you typed in exactly matches the address you were given. Check that the capitalization matches, that all words are spelled properly, and that all the punctuation, like dots (.) and slashes (/), are correctly placed. Remember, there are no spaces allowed in Web addresses. (A proper Web address will look like http://www.ecollectical.com).

  • If you believe you should have access to the site, try sending e-mail to whomever maintains the Web site. Their e-mail address is often on the main page of the Web site, or you can try sending e-mail to the "Webmaster" of the site. If the Web address is something like http://www.xyz.com/, then the Webmaster's address will probably be "webmaster@xyz.com."
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403 - Forbidden

This standard error message is generated by Web servers when you try to access a file that has not been correctly configured by whomever maintains it. (The file needs to be set with "read permissions" for all users.) All that probably means is that you can't view the page because whomever maintains the site set it up incorrectly.

This is a configuration issue that is beyond the control of eCollectica Publishing and the Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide CD-ROM and Internet resource. When we created and published your CD, all of the links and Web site addresses were tested to make sure they were current. However, it is the nature of the Internet that web site addresses sometimes change or that some web sites have various technical problems that prevent people from accessing their pages. Please report any links which no longer function properly so that we can update future editions of the CD.

Other steps you can take:

  • Make sure the Web address you typed exactly matches the Web address you were given. Spelling, punctuation, or capitalization errors can prevent the browser from finding the page you're looking for. (Remember, there are no spaces allowed in Web addresses, and a proper Web address will look like http://www.ecollectica.com).

  • If you believe the Web address is correct, the problem may be with the Web server where the Web page "lives." The server may be down for maintenance or too many people may be trying to access the server at once. Try connecting again later.

  • Wait a moment and click the Reload button (also called the Refresh button) to try again.

  • If you still can't reach the site, send e-mail to the Webmaster at that site with the exact error message you are receiving.
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404 - Not Found

A 404 - Not Found error means that there was no Web page with the name you specified at the Web site. This could happen for a variety of reasons.

  • Make sure that the Web address (URL) that you typed in exactly matches the address you were given. Check that the capitalization matches, that all words are spelled properly, and that all the punctuation, like dots (.) and slashes (/), are correctly placed. Be sure you are using the forward slash (/) and not the backward slash (\). (Remember, there are no spaces allowed in Web addresses, and a proper Web address will look like http://www.ecollectica.com).

  • The page may have been renamed, moved, or deleted. This is a configuration issue that is beyond the control of eCollectica Publishing and the Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide CD-ROM and Internet resource. When we created and published your CD, all of the links and Web site addresses were tested to make sure they were current. However, it is the nature of the Internet that web site addresses sometimes change or that some web sites have various technical problems that prevent people from accessing their pages. Please report any links which no longer function properly so that we can update future editions of the CD. .

  • The person maintaining the Web page may no longer have an account at that location. While not great news, the 404 - Not Found error tells you that that there is a Web site at that address, just not the particular page you were looking for. You can usually poke around on the Web site to see if the page may have been moved or renamed. This is a configuration issue that is beyond the control of eCollectica Publishing and the Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide CD-ROM and Internet resource. When we created and published your CD, all of the links and Web site addresses were tested to make sure they were current. However, it is the nature of the Internet that web site addresses sometimes change or that some web sites have various technical problems that prevent people from accessing their pages. Please report any links which no longer function properly so that we can update future editions of the CD.
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500 - Server Error - Page Not Available

Web pages are stored on servers, machines that contain files and allow other servers (computers) to download files from them. If the server has been incorrectly set up or is experiencing mechanical problems, it will return this error.

Steps you can take include:

  • If you entered the URL manually, make sure it matches the URL exactly. Spelling, punctuation, and capitalization errors can prevent you from seeing the page you re seeking.

  • If you continually receive this error message, you should wait and try again later until the problem has been resolved by the server's administrators. This is a configuration issue that is beyond the control of eCollectica Publishing and the Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide CD-ROM and Internet resource. When we created and published your CD, all of the links and Web site addresses were tested to make sure they were current. However, it is the nature of the Internet that web site addresses sometimes change or that some web sites have various technical problems that prevent people from accessing their pages. Please report any links which no longer function properly so that we can update future editions of the CD.
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501 - Not Implemented

This error is a direct result of problems in the Web page's HTML (HyperText Markup Language). It usually occurs with Web pages that contain forms in which you type information and send it to a third party.

Steps you can take include:

  • Try contacting the Webmaster at the site. If the Web address is something like http://www.xyz.com/ then the Webmaster's address would be "webmaster@xyz.com."
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Unable to Connect to <Web Address>

When you receive the error message "Unable to Connect to ..." it means your Web browser cannot get to the Web site you want. There are a variety of reasons why this might happen:

  • You may not be connected to the Internet through your ISP.
  • If you were connected, your connection may have been interrupted without your knowing it.
  • The Web address you typed may be incorrect.
  • The Web site may have moved or may no longer exist.
  • The Web server may be shut down or busy.
  • There might even be network problems on the Internet.

Steps you can take include:

  • Try connecting to other Web sites. If you can connect to other sites, the problem is probably with that one site so try again later. If you're having problems connecting to other sites though, you might be having a problem with your computer or your connection to the Internet. Try restarting your computer and reconnecting to the Internet.

  • Make sure that the Web address (or URL) that you typed exactly matches the address you were given. Check that the capitalization matches, that all words are spelled properly, and that all the punctuation, like dots (.) and slashes (/), are correctly placed.

  • If you believe the URL is correct, the problem may be with the Web server. The server may be down, or too many people may be trying to access the server at once. Wait a moment and click the Reload button to try again or waitr a few minutes and try again.
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Too Much Network Traffic

When you receive the error message "Too Much Network Traffic," it means that the Web page you are trying to see has too many other people already connected to it. Occasionally, you'll get this message when there's a problem with your cache (temporary files your Web browser keeps to speed things up).

Steps you can take include:

  • Use the Reload button to try to connect to the site again, or wait and try again later.

  • Clear your Web browser's disk cache. For instructions on clearing your browser's cache, click here.

  • Try connecting to other Web sites. If you can connect to other sites, the problem is probably with that one site so try again later. If you're having problems connecting to other sites though, you might be having a problem with your connection or your computer.
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The Requested URL Was Not Found

This is a message that your Web browser will give you if it can't find a Web site to connect to at the address you specified. Depending on your Web browser, the message might read "Cannot open" or "Cannot retrieve" followed by the Web address.

Steps you can take include:

  • Use the Reload button to try to connect to the site again, or wait and try again later.

  • Clear your Web browser's disk cache. For specific directions for clearing your browser's cache, click here.

  • Try connecting to other Web sites. If you can connect to other sites, the problem is probably with that one site so try again later. If you're having problems connecting to other sites though, you might be having a problem with your computer or your connection to the Internet. Try restarting your computer and reconnecting to the Internet.
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Can't Parse http

Nearly every instance of "Can't Parse HTTP" occurs because your Web browser can't figure out the Web address (the URL) you typed. While most browsers allow you to leave off the "http://" before a Web address, some browsers require it.

Steps you can take include:

  • Make sure the Web address you typed exactly matches the Web address you were given. Spelling, punctuation, or capitalization errors can prevent the browser from finding the page you're seeking. (Remember, there are no spaces allowed in Web addresses. A proper Web address will look like http://www.ecollectica.com).

  • Use the Reload button to try to connect to the site again, or wait and try again later.

  • Clear your Web browser's disk cache. Depending on the browser, you will choose a menu item called "Preferences" or "Options." Look for an option for "Advanced" or "Browser" features, then press the button that says "Purge Cache," "Clear Cache," or "Empty Cache."

  • Try connecting to other Web sites. If you can connect to other sites, the problem is probably with that one site so try again later. If you're having problems connecting to other sites though, you might be having a problem with your computer or your connection to the Internet. Try restarting your computer and reconnecting to the Internet.
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I get "broken" or missing images when I am on the online portion of the guide.

Tip: Because the Antique Clocks Guide has thousands of graphics, you may need to empty your web browser's Cache every so often.

  • Solution 1: Try clicking the "Reload" or "Refresh" button in your web browser's toolbar. This will help with occasional problems with broken or missing images.

  • Solution 2: If you get broken or missing images very often, try clearing your web browser's cache (also called "Internet Files" in Internet Explorer)

    About your web browser's cache

    The Cache folder is the location on your hard disk where web pages and files (such as graphics) are stored as you view them. This speeds up the display of pages you frequently visit or have already seen, because your web browser can open them from your hard disk instead of downloading them again each time from the web. The more space you allow in this folder, the faster previously visited pages are displayed. However, keep in mind that increasing the size of the cache folder takes up more space on your computer. You can adjust the size of this folder, or empty it, to control how much space it uses on your hard disk.

    The links below will take you to instructions on how to clear your browser's cache. We have included some of the more widely used web browsers. If you do not find your web browser version listed, look for instructions on how to clear your cache in your web bowser's Help file
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How do I clear my cache?
This table contains instructions for clearing the browser cache for the more popular browsers and computer platforms.

If your browser, browser release or computer platform is not listed here, it is very likely that your browser uses options similar to these to clear its cache. Please consult the product documentation or online help for detailed instructions.
 
Netscape Navigator 4.77 and 6.0
Macintosh Windows
  1. Close all browser windows.
  2. From the "Edit" pull-down menu, select "Preferences."
  3. Expand the "Advanced" options by clicking on the arrow pointing to "Advanced."
  4. Select "Cache."
  5. Confirm you have either "Once per session" or "Every time" selected.
  6. Click on "Clear Disk Cache" (click "OK" when you're asked if you're sure).
  7. Click "OK."
  8. Quit out of the browser.
  9. Launch the browser again.
  1. From the "Edit" pulldown menu, select "Preferences."
  2. Expand the "Advanced" options by double-clicking on it.
  3. Select "Cache."
  4. Confirm you have either "Once per session" or "Every time" selected.
  5. Click on "Clear Memory Cache" (click "OK" when you're asked if you're sure).
  6. Click on "Clear Disk Cache" (click "OK" when you're asked if you're sure).
  7. Click "OK."
  8. Quit out of the browser.
  9. Launch the browser again.
 
Internet Explorer 5.0 (Macintosh), 5.0, 5.5 (Windows)
Macintosh Windows
  1. Close all browser windows.
  2. From the "Edit" pulldown menu, select "Preferences."
  3. If it's not already expanded, select the "Web Browser" section by clicking on the right-arrow.
  4. Select the "Advanced" button.
  5. Confirm you have either "Once per session" or "Always" selected.
  6. Click on "Empty Now."
  7. Click "OK."
  8. Quit out of the browser.
  9. Launch the browser again.
  1. From the "Tools" pulldown menu, select "Internet Options."
  2. A window with several tabs will open; select "General" if you're not already there.
  3. Click on "Settings" in the square labeled "Temporary Internet files."
  4. Confirm you have either "Every visit to the page" or "Every time you start Internet Explorer" selected; click "OK."
  5. Click on "Delete Files" (click "OK" when you're asked if you're sure).
  6. Click "OK."
  7. Quit out of the browser.
  8. Launch the browser again.
 
AOL 5.0
Macintosh Windows
  1. From the "My AOL" pulldown menu, select "Preferences" on the toolbar.
  2. Locate the "WWW" icon and click on it.
  3. Locate the square labeled "Disk Cache."
  4. Click on the "Empty Cache Now" button.
  5. Click "OK."
  6. Quit out of the browser.
  7. Launch the browser again.
  1. From the "My AOL" pulldown menu, select "Preferences" on the toolbar.
  2. From the "Preferences" window, select the "WWW" icon.
  3. A window with several tabs will open; select "General," if you're not already there.
  4. In the square labeled "Temporary Internet files," click on "Settings."
  5. Confirm you have either "Every visit to the page" or "Every time you start Internet Explorer" selected; click "OK."
  6. Click on "Delete Files;" click "OK" when you're asked if you're sure.
  7. Click "OK."
  8. Close the "Preferences" window and all the browser windows.
 
OPERA
Macintosh Windows
  1. Open your Opera browser.
  2. Click on the menu called Edit in your browser toolbar.
  3. Click on Preferences.
  4. In the left side Category pane, click on "History and Cache".
  5. The top right side of the Preference box will have a section called "Disk Cache".
  6. Click the checkbox that says, "Empty on Exit". Now you'll never have to do this again!
  7. Click the button called, "Empty Now".
  8. At the bottom of the Preference box click the button "Apply".
  9. Click the "OK" button.
  10. Now your Cache is clear and it will be cleared every time you sign off!
  1. Open your Opera browser.
  2. Click on the menu called Preferences in your browser toolbar.
  3. Choose "Cache" in the pull down menu.
  4. Click the checkbox that says, "Empty on Exit". Now you'll never have to do this again!
  5. Click the "Empty Now" button.
  6. Click the"OK" button to exit.

 
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What are "cookies"? Does the Antique Clocks Guide use them?

The online portion of the Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide requires cookies, so if you disable or selectively disable cookies, be sure to allow them for access to our content. Failure to do so will severely limit your use of the online portion of the Antique Clocks Guide.

About Cookies

A cookie is a small amount of data that a Web site stores on your hard disk. The purpose of a cookie is to store a preference that you specify, such as a user name or passowrd, or to allow you to return to a site later and pick up where you left off, such as when using a Web-based message board. Some sites also use cookies to store information as you move from page to page on a site, or to identify you you as a registtered user of that site. Depending on your browser type, you may be alerted when a site is about to set a cookie on your hard drive. If notified of the cookie installation you may accept or reject the cookie.

To enable/disable the cookies or the alerts in Internet Explorer 5.x on a PC:

  1. Open Internet Explorer
  2. Select the TOOLS menu and then click INTERNET OPTIONS
  3. Select the Security Tab then click the button labeled CUSTOM LEVEL
  4. Scroll down to COOKIES and select the desired level of security from the presented options

To enable/disable the cookies or the alerts in Internet Explorer 4.x on a PC:

  1. Open Internet Explorer
  2. Select the VIEW menu and then click INTERNET OPTIONS
  3. Select the ADVANCED Tab
  4. Scroll down to SECURITY and then COOKIES
  5. Select the desired level of security from the presented options

To enable/disable the cookies or the alerts in Netscape 4.x on a PC:

  1. Open Netscape
  2. Select the EDIT menu and then click PREFERENCES
  3. Scroll down to ADVANCED
  4. Select the desired level of cookie acceptance from the COOKIES options

To enable/disable the cookies or the alerts in Internet Explorer 5.x on a MAC:

  1. Open INTERNET EXPLORER
  2. Click EDIT and select the PREFERENCES option
  3. Under the RECEIVING FILES option, select COOKIES
  4. Next to "When receiving cookies:" select the desired level of cookie acceptance
  5. .Click OK to finish

To enable/disable the cookies or the alerts in Netscape 4.x on a MAC:

  1. Open Netscape
  2. Select the EDIT menu and then click PREFERENCES
  3. Scroll down to ADVANCED
  4. Select the desired level of cookie acceptance from the COOKIES options

 
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I forgot my user name. What should I do?

You can have your user name emailed automatically to the email address that we have on record for you you. You will need your CD-KEY (the 16 digit code that came with your CD) Click here to retrieve your user name.
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I forgot my password. What should I do?

You can have your password emailed automatically to the email address that we have on record for you you. You will need your CD-KEY (the 16 digit code that came with your CD) Click here to retrieve your password.

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How can I change my user name?

You will need your CD-KEY (the 16 digit code that came with your CD) to change the user name we have on record for you. Click here to change your user name.
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How can I change my password?

You will need your CD-KEY (the 16 digit code that came with your CD) to change the password we have on record for you. Click here to change your password.

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How can I change the email address you have on record for me?

You will need your CD-KEY (the 16 digit code that came with your CD) to change the email address we have on record for you. Click here to change your email address.
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I lost my CD-KEY. What should I do?

Your CD-KEY is necessary to change your password, user name and email address. If you have misplaced your CD-KEY, please email us at cdsupport@ecollectica.com for further instructions.

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