Submitting a post is a very easy task. Members can either start a new thread by using "Post New Topic", or reply to a current discussion with "Post Reply." Both of these options are available near the top right-hand corner of each page. A new page will be loaded with several empty boxes. A member must input a valid user name and password, select a cool little post icon, and then write out the message body that he/she would like to post. At this point, he/she will have the option to spell check the message, submit the post, or clear the entry fields and start again. After clicking the Submit button, a new page indicating that the post is being added will appear. After a few seconds, the member will be back where he/she started, and the new post will appear. Please click the Submit button once only, and submit your topic in the one most appropriate forum. Do not multiple post the same topic as you will be unable to delete your multiple posts.

If a post requires editing then members can revise their own posts. Simply click on the small pencil and paper icon at the top of the post. This will allow the poster to modify their post in much the same manner as posting a new message. 

UBB Code allows members to use post links, display pictures, and modify text properties. A dedicated UBB Usage page has been developed to demonstrate how to implement the most common UBB command structures. UBB is extremely powerful, but use it within the limitations of the SysOpt.com Rules and Regulations. Any post linking or picture displaying objectionable or questionable material will be promptly removed from the forums. This type of action could also lead to sanctions against the offending poster, including, but not limited to, a warning issued, account deletion, and even legal prosecution - all IP addresses of users are logged.

All pictures, diagrams, and other related graphics displayed in a post must be hosted by the posting member's own site or web account. If this is not possible, then just post the proper link to the graphic. All posts that violate another site's bandwidth policies will be promptly removed or edited.

Regarding the size of images, if a thread contains mostly text posts, and you want to post a message with an image, please keep it small (about 300x300 pixels or less). Our dial-up users will appreciate your kindness. However, if a thread contains mostly images (for example, members posting screenshots of their desktop), it's best to stick with whatever image size other members have posted, such as 800x600, 1024x768, etc.  

SysOpt.com has decided to disable the Hyper-Text Markup Language at this time. HTML use can create security issues, and has proven to be of little benefit since UBB Code is still in use.  

SysOpt.com has currently disabled signatures. Signatures allow posting members to tag small lines of text to the end of a post. It is felt that this text is redundant and is distracting to the intended purpose of the forums. 

Membership levels are based on post counts. A member's status is not an indicator of content quality, originality, or helpfulness. Membership status only defines the individuals that frequent the site more often than other members. The breakdown is as follows:

The Search option can be accessed at the top right-hand section of any forum page. It allows members to search through older posts (as of this writing, over 100,000 posts) or search for specific content. This is an invaluable tool, as members often find solutions to problems and questions without even needing to post. Considering the large user base, someone has probably already asked the same question. 

By being courteous and respectful, a member can hope to achieve a good rapport with fellow SysOpt.com users. A positive atmosphere will not only attract new members, but also keep current ones coming back. If one encounters a situation where disagreement occurs, he/she should offer his/her own thoughts in a respectful manner. Try to support the statement with published facts. If a discussion turns towards severe flaming, please abandon the post and report it to a moderator. 

Thread tracking will send a member an e-mail every time a post is updated. This is a very nice feature, especially for those discussions lasting for long periods of time. Members also like this option because they can track the progress of a support-related post. Thread tracking is available at the top of each thread page. A member just enters his/her e-mail address and clicks "Track it!". Now the member will have an up to date e-mail reminder for every response to the marked post, even if they are not the original author of the thread.

One other option to track posts to the thread requires that the user be the original author of a thread. When a user posts a new thread, he/she can check a checkbox on the "Post New Topic" form that will cause them to be notified whenever someone replies to their thread. If you decide to use this option, please be sure that your profile contains a valid email address. If it does not, reply notifications will be bounced back to us, and we will disable the thread until you correct your email address.  

Most members like to feel they can at least partially identify with whom they are talking. If anonymity is a concern, just fill out the non-specific sections. The Profile allows members to find other people with similar interests, professions, or locations. At the minimum, it is suggested that a valid e-mail address be listed.