MT IRC
From MovableType
Internet Relay Chat (IRC) is a standard internet-wide protocol that provides a practically infinite number of virtual spaces (or "channels") for people with like interests to meet and chat.
If you're old enough to remember AOL chat rooms, IRC channels are very similar. If you're not, then you almost certainly already know what IRC is...
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The Movable Type IRC channels
There are two relevant, active IRC channels where members of the Movable Type community hang out. Both are on the Freenode network (irc.freenode.net):
- #movabletype
- This channel is strictly for Movable Type related discussions and as such is publicly logged (see below)
- #movabletype-talk
- This unlogged channel is for off-topic banter and exists mainly to keep #movabletype and its logs as focused as possible for those who are searching for something or simply browsing the logs daily for pertinent information.
You can always issue the following command in channel to get to the public log archive:
melody: help
The #movabletype channel log archives
The #movabletype channel is publicly logged and archived.
The best way to search the archives is via the Movable Type universal search form at Endevver.com.
Guidelines for newcomers
First a few important things to remember upon your visit to the channels:
- Use the right channel - Read the channel descriptions above and make sure you are using the right one.
- IRC communication is quirky and very much unlike regular communication. Those engaged in a conversation aren't usually going to stop just because you ask an unrelated question. Those who are not actively conversing usually are not looking at the window except at brief intervals.
- It's NOT a support channel! While most regulars are very friendly and helpful, they are also very busy and not there primarily to answer your questions but instead to communicate and collaborate with other regulars.
- #movabletype-talk is private - There is an expectation in #movabletype-talk that discussions won't go outside of the channel. Repeating or posting information gleaned from that channel is an absolute no-no and will not be treated kindly.
The following guidelines are presented here to make your visit to the IRC channels more productive and positive.
- Always use the same IRC nickname as it promotes community and familiarity
- If you step away from your computer, set yourself as 'away' (in your software) and change your nick to append '-away' or '-afk' (away from keyboard) to it so people know that you aren't around.
- If you join the channel in the middle of a conversation, read the log to find out what was already said before jumping in and asking questions or giving opinions. Having to repeat things is annoying and a waste of time.
- If you are looking for help with a problem:
- Do your homework! There's nothing more annoying to regulars than people who do no research and come to the channel expecting others to do their work for them. First search the docs and wiki and even the IRC channel itself before asking a question.
- Just ask the question - Don't ask if someone can help you and then wait for an answer. Just blurt your question out in the channel. Most people aren't looking at the screen so you'll be waiting a long time for someone to say "yes".
- We are not in your head - Make sure you give as many full details up front to avoid the need to "interview" you about your problem. You should especially make sure to first tell the channel the general overview of what you're trying to accomplish instead of starting off with the minutiae of the error you're getting or problem you're having. Also, ALWAYS state up front what version of Movable Type and/or relevant plugins you are using.
- The more you stick to the guidelines above, the faster you will get your questions answered and the happier regulars will be to answer others.
IRC Software
In order to connect to and use IRC, you will need to either download a client or use a web-based IRC service. You will find many listed here but the favorites are: