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I downloaded something from MR and it doesn't work [a.k.a. How to ask for help regarding old Mac file issues]

Category: Support
Composed by: that-ben
On: 2020-03-26 11:48:59
Updated by: that-ben
On: 2021-07-27 11:13:01

If you downloaded anything from this website and it doesn't work on your Mac and you want help, then you have to post in the chat all the following details.  Otherwise, nobody will even try to help you.

1) Make sure that you have read and you understand the terms that you agreed to when you registered your MR account. Here they are again: "By registering, you understand that this is a retro-computing archive site for OLDER Macs. Almost nothing found on here is compatible nor meant to be run on a current computer. Always refer to the notes on each software page for that specific title's required Mac configuration." After reading the "compatibility notes" paragraph on the page where you downloaded the file, are you sure it meets those hardware and software requirements? If this paragraph is empty, then remember that anything hardware accelerated (3D games, etc...) CANNOT work on any Mac emulator that currently exists (as of 2021).

2) Specify the file's download/page URL (if there are multiple files on that page, pinpoint which file it is).

3) Describe what your exact old Mac model is and what exact Mac OS version is running on it. Use the following old Mac models list to identify it: https://www.macintoshrepository.org/mac-specs/

4) Explain IN DETAIL every step you took from downloading the file to executing it on your old Mac.  Also, precisely describe what error message you get or how/where you're stuck.  For example, remember that expanding a .sit archive outside of a HFS partition (Mac OS) will destroy its resource fork, rendering the .sit file's contents useless, even if you use Stuffit Expander for Windows (which existed for something else, not to be used on any files from this website).

5) Whenever possible, post pictures of the old Mac screen exposing the problem.  You can attach pictures and even MP4 videos in the chat by clicking the paper scraps icon on the lower/right corner of the chat box.

6) At all times, remember registration rule #9 which is: "Do not PM or harass anybody for support/help with your old Mac, files or emulator, even if you donated." People will only help you if they want to and if you supply enough clear information and explain as many steps you took as possible and in detail.

7) Spamming or posting over and over the same useless HELP ME message without following this guide to explain the issue you're facing is an excellent way to get banned from this website.