Q. What is MAPI and do I need a MAPI compliant e-mail system to use Philips PCA635VC?
MAPI stands for Messaging Application Programming Interface. This interface allows different applications to
interact using e-mail messaging. If you have a MAPI-compliant e-mail system, an e-mail window will automati-
cally appear when you are ready to send a Videogram. Microsoft Exchange, Eudora Pro v3.0, Pronto 97, and Z-
mail Pro are all examples of MAPI Compliant e-mail systems.
You do not need to have a MAPI-compliant e-mail system in order to send Videograms. You can still send
Videograms by first saving the Videogram to a file, and then attaching the saved file to your e-mail message.
Netscape 3.0, Internet Explorer, Emissary and America Online (AOL) are all examples of non-MAPI-compliant
e-mail systems.
Q. Does Philips PCA635VC work with America Online (AOL)?
Yes. In order to send a Videogram with AOL you will need to save your Videogram in a file, launch the e-mail
system separately and send the Videogram as an e-mail attachment.
Q. I already have a printer (or Zip drive) attached to my parallel port, can I still use a Philips PCA635VC? How
do I connect Philips PCA635VC if my printer port is already in use?
You can use the Philips PCA635VC with other devices requiring a parallel port simply by adding a mechanical
switch box. A switch box features one cable connecting to the computer’s parallel port, and two or more parallel
ports on the switch box. You simply plug your Philips PCA635VC into one of the switch box’s parallel ports,
then connect your other parallel port-based products to the remaining ports. To work with the Philips
PCA635VC, simply select the appropriate port with the switch on the front and begin working. To change devi-
ces, simply turn the switch on the front.
In this way, the switch box enables you to connect both the Philips PCA635VC and a printer (or Zip drive) to
ONE parallel port. Any standard mechanical switch box from any computer store will work. DO NOT USE an
electronic switch box.
Q. Will Philips PCA635VC work with an EPP parallel port?
Not currently. The parallel port must be either configured in ECP or Bi-directional mode. Refer to your systems
users manual or documentation to find out how to configure your system to ECP or Bi-directional mode.
Q. What types of parallel ports are supported by Philips PCA635VC?
Philips PCA635VC supports both ECP (recommended) and Bi-directional parallel port configurations.
Q. What is ECP?
There are several ways that data can be transmitted via the parallel port. Currently three are most often employ-
ed - EPP, Bi-directional, and ECP. ECP (Enhanced Capability Port) is the most current configuration. Philips
PCA635VC supports both ECP and Bi-directional modes.
Q. What is a VGM file?
A file with a “VGM” extension is a Videogram without the embedded Videogram Player. These files are created
for distribution to those who already have a Videogram Player. The current embedded Videogram Player requi-
res around 110KB of storage, creating a Videogram without the player will save this storage. In order to play a
.VGM file, the user will need to download the approximately 400KB Videogram Player (or it can be attached in
an e-mail). A .VGM file can be created using the Philips PCA635VC Camera and choosing not to include the
Player when creating a Videogram.
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