�Ascii art on a webpage � � </TILE> � � </HEAD> � � <BODY> � � <PRE> � � � � .----------------------------------------. � � � �: � � �__ � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �: � � � �: � =='_)) �__-:!:- � � (your ascii here) �: � � � �: � � ,.' .' �))-:!:- � � � � � � � � � � �: � � � �: � �((_,' �.'-:!:- � � � � � � � � � � � �: � � � �: � ~^~~~^~~^~~~^~ � � � � � � � � � � � � : � � � � `----------------------------------------' � � </PRE> � � </BODY> � � </HTML> � � HTML can be used to add special effects such as colours, font size, � � and blinking text. For full instructions on how to do this see:- � � http://llizard.crosswinds.net/ascii-art/asciionpage.htm ======================================================================== [17] �What should I know about signature files? ======================================================================== � � A signature file (or `sig' for short; not to be confused with the � � initials added to an ASCII picture) is a small, personalized text � � file which an e-mail or news program can add to the end of every � � message a person sends -- the equivalent of a letterhead for dead � � tree (paper) mail (or snail-mail). Usually it contains little more � � than the person's name, organization and e-mail address, maybe an � � inspirational quote of some sort and some people like to incorporate � � ASCII art into their signature files as well. � � � � _ _ � � �_ � �_ _ �_ ___ ___ � � � � � \|/ ____ \|/ � � � �| | | ___| | �(_) \| | __/ __| � � � � � @~/ ,. \~@ � � � �|_ �_|___| |__| | .` | _|\__ \ � � � � �/_( \__/ )_\ Mike � � � � �|_| � �|____|_|_|\_|___|___/[Figlet] � � \__U_/ � �Jittlov � � The lack of importance in relation to global warming, violence in � � society, and so on, can be the subject of heated arguments. To be � � brief, (almost) no-one will complain if your signature file is four � � lines long or fewer -- and it is quite possible to draw good ASCII � � pictures which are that small. � � � � � � � � �_______________________________________________ � � � � (@) (@) � �`) There are a lot of web-pages on this with ) � � � �^ �<�>� ^ � �( � google search ascii sig. � � � � _______) � � � � � === � � � �`----Richard James-----------------' � � Some e-mail/news programs don't allow you to have a signature file � � which is longer than four lines, while others just complain. Five or � � six lines may be acceptable, but �any longer, and you're starting to � � take the risk that your signature will be longer than some of your � � e-mail messages; this wouldn't really make sense on paper, so it � � isn't really acceptable in cyberspace either. The exception is in � � messages posted to news:alt.ascii-art itself -- we're used to seeing � � long sigs, so we won't complain. � � � �-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-'*((,,.- � � But, no matter what the length of your signature, make sure it's � � fewer than 72 characters wide, otherwise it may end up a horrible � � mess (see Question 8). ======================================================================== [18] �What is ascii-animation? ======================================================================== � � An animated image produced by a sequence of changing ASCII pictures. � � The speed will depend on the system you are using. � � ----------------------------------------------------------------- � � �o � \ o / �_ o � � � � __| � �\ / � � |__ � � � �o _ �\ o / � o � � /|\ � �| � � /\ � __\o � �\o � �| � �o/ � �o/__ � /\ � � | � �/|\ � � / \ � / \ � | \ �/) �| � �( \ �/o\ �/ ) � �| �(\ �/ | � / \ � / \ � � ----------------------------------------------------------------- � � Ascii-Animation transports vary a lot. The earliest known portable � � types used the Control-Codes of the (often .VT or .ANS) terminal � � screens for either `paging' or `direct cursor addressing'. � � Sometimes found as c-code in .sigs, which, when compiled and run � � produce moving patterns or images. � � ----------------------------------------------------------------- � � � � � � � � � � � o � � � � _ � � � �_ � � � � � �_ � � � � � �_o � � � �/\_ � � �_ \\o � � (_)\__/o � � (_) � � � � �_<�\_ � � �_>(_) � �(_)/<_ � � � \_| \ � � �_|/' \/ � � � � (_)>(_) � �(_) � � � � � (_) � � �(_) � � � (_)' �_\o_ � � ----------------------------------------------------------------- � � Most Web Ascii-Animation uses Java or Javascript. � � * �To find out how to animate ASCII art using JavaScript, see:- � � � �http://www.geocities.com/SouthBeach/Marina/4942/faq_hta.htm � � � �http://llizard.crosswinds.net/ascii-art/animation/animlesson.htm � � * �To find out how to animate ASCII art using Java, see:- � � � �http://www.jave.de/. � � � �http://www.jave.de/javeplayer/. ======================================================================== [19] �What does ObAscii mean? ======================================================================== � � ObAscii = Obligatory Ascii � � Obligatory: [adj] compulsory (of a ruling) having binding force � � Ascii: [slang] ascii-art picture � � A funny way to remind people to put a drawing in their post. � � This means an ascii in every post! (especially off-topic threads) � � Failure to comply can result in flaming! This implies that if you � � don't include an ascii in your post you deserve to get flamed! � � ==================================================================== � � The concept of ObAscii has been around since the creation of the � � usenet group news:alt.ascii-art and it's purpose is to provide some � � on-topic content to an otherwise off-topic posting. � � ==================================================================== � � *NOT* The 1st ever! ObAscii : � � ==================================================================== � � From: Matthew Thomas <mpt26@spamfree.land> � � Date: Thu, 08 Oct 1998 13:50:09 +1300 � � Organization: University of Canterbury.nz (opinions are my own) � � � � � � � ^ � � � � � � ,' \ � � � � � � � � [snip - 3rd party flame ] � � � � � � L""/ � � � � � � ` | � � � � � � � � �BOLLOCKS!!! � � � � � � J | � � � � � � J L � � � � � � � � �I am staying out of this as much as � � � � � � | | . �, � � � � � � possible, Colin, because I really ... � � � � � � | | `v_L.' � � � � � �// ,>'--\'_ � � � � � :. � � � � � �\`' \ - /-. � � � � � [snip - rant/rave] � � � � � �/ � /`""| � � � � � � :. � � � � � � ),' � �`- � � � � � �( � �,-' �\ � � � � � Anyway, �I think a lot of this � � � � � � ) ,' ,' � h � � � � �flaming would decrease if everyone � � � � � �/ / �/ � � `)--.. � � was required to post a (different) � � � � � �\/ �/ � � � \ �<) � � obligatory ASCII pic in each message � � � � � � <� � � � , �L<' � � �-- at the very least, it would slow � � � � � � F/ � � _/ �,' � � � �the flames down. � � � � � � L � ,-' � � \ � � � � � � | � � � � ___L � � � So, to start the trend, here's my � � � � � �/ � � � � ( �F � � � � � J � � �___,' �L � � � �ObAscii: the Statue of Liberty. � � � � � | � �,' � � � | � � � � � F �,' � � � � | � � � � �(_,--..__ �mt-2|_ � � � � ,' � � � �`"`--.._\ � � � ,' / � � � � � � � � \ � � �/ � � � � � � � � � � (_ � � [snip - .sig of Matthew Thomas] ======================================================================== [20] �The ASCII Art Rough-Guide to m$.Outlook? ======================================================================== � � Microsoft's Outlook Express program has a number of flaws, including � � * deleting spaces from the beginning of lines, and � � * inserting the word `file://' in unexpected places � � which make it very difficult when using it for ASCII art. Whether � � these are bugs or features we don't know and a registry patch to fix � � some of the flaws in Outlook Express is available from the ADA. � � ==================================================================== � � How to get rid of blue-lines in OE5: � � 1. Press the decode button twice when viewing a blue-struck image. � � � �Because, after ROT13, OE will not parse links and so 2 x ROT13 � � � �returns everything back to normal, but without the blue lines. � � 2. Create a button in your toolbar so you can do it quickly. � � � �In OE 5.5-6.0 the URL parsing code is slightly better and � � � �doesn't foul as many images as previous versions. � � ==================================================================== � � How to stop Ms.Outlook giving wrapped output � � � � or the ascii-art you are sending is wider than 72 characters: � � 1. �Tools menu � � 2. �Options � � 3. �Send � � 4. �Both of these Mail and News format � � 5. �Plain text settings � � � � ____ � � 6. �Automatically wrap text at |____| � � ==================================================================== � � How to set your Outlook Express 6 to view ASCII art correctly: � � 1. �On the TOOLS menu, click OPTIONS � � 2. �Select the READ tab � � 3. �International settings � � 4. �"Use default encoding for all incoming messages" [tick] � � 5. �Set the FONTS to display as western european. � � � � set both the PROPORTIONAL font and FIXED-WIDTH font to � � � � LUCIDA CONSOLE, and FONT SIZE to SMALLER � � 6. �Click OK, then OK again. � � ==================================================================== � � How to set your Outlook Express 5 to view ASCII art correctly: � � 1. �On the TOOLS menu, click OPTIONS � � 2. �Select the READ tab � � 3. �Click the FONTS button near the bottom of the box � � 4. �For the languages UNICODE, WESTERN EUROPEAN and USER DEFINED � � � � set both the PROPORTIONAL font and FIXED-WIDTH font to � � � � LUCIDA CONSOLE, and FONT SIZE to SMALLER � � 5. �Click OK, then OK again. � � ==================================================================== � � How to set your Outlook Express 4 to view ASCII art correctly: � � 1. �On the TOOLS menu, click OPTIONS � � 2. �Select the READ tab � � 3. �Click the FONTS button near the bottom of the box � � 4. �For the languages UNIVERSAL ALPHABET, USER DEFINED and WESTERN � � � � set both the PROPORTIONAL font and FIXED-WIDTH font to � � � � LUCIDA CONSOLE, and FONT SIZE to SMALLER � � 5. �Click OK, then OK again. � � ==================================================================== � � NOTE : If LUCIDA CONSOLE is not available as a font, pick another � � � � � �from the list of available FIXED-WIDTH fonts. � � Examples of fixed-width fonts � � � �1. � ANDALE MONO � � commonly available with ms.windows: �2. � COURIER NEW � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �3. � LUCIDA CONSOLE � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �4. � LUCIDA SANS TYPEWRITER � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �5. � OCR A EXTENDED � � If you have followed the above steps correctly, you should now � � be able to view and create ASCII art as it should be. ======================================================================== [21] �Where do I find ASCII art pictures, tutorials and information? ======================================================================== � � There are a number of ASCII art Usenet groups:- � � � news:alt.ascii-art � � � news:alt.ascii-art.animation � � � news:alt.ascii-art.endless.blabla � � � news:alt.binaries.pictures.ascii � � � news:rec.arts.ascii � � are English-speaking ones that are widely used. � � alt.ascii-art � � � � � � � �[original ASCII art discussion group] � � alt.ascii-art.animation � � �[is about animating ASCII art] � � alt.ascii-art.endless.blabla [an off-topic follow-up troll-trap] � � alt.binaries.pictures.ascii �[ASCII art sofware/image drop-zone] � � rec.arts.ascii � � � � � � � [primary moderated ASCII art group] � � Lots of ASCII artists put up libraries of their own and others' � � ASCII art on their Web sites, as well as tutorials on how to draw � � ASCII art: � � � � The DMOZ Open Directory Project ASCII art sites: � � � � � http://dmoz.org/Arts/ASCII/. � � � � Allen Mullen has links to many of these sites at: � � � � � http://www.geocities.com/SoHo/2695/links.htm. � � � The Ascii-Art Dictionary at: � �The Ascii-Art dot com at: � � � � http://www.ascii-art.de � � � � http://www.ascii-art.com � � The Ascii-Art Document Archive (address as listed in the header) � � There is an on-line panel of experts at: The ASCIItorium � � � http://www.ludd.luth.se/~vk/cgi/asciichat/ � � And webrings: � � � http://artcode.org/ascii/index.php � � � http://webring.org/ascii/ � � Also IRCascii.8bit: � � � http://www.geocities.com/SouthBeach/Marina/4942/ascii.htm � � � http://www.bluedwarf.net/ � (irc.bluedwarf.net#ascii) � � � http://www.remorse.org/ � � (irc.efnet#ascii) ======================================================================== [22] �Historacle: from the old-old FAQ v1.2 March 14, 1994 ======================================================================== � � What types of ascii-art are there? � � o �Linedrawing - like stickmen � � o �Lettering - like Figlet does � � o �Grey scale pictures - These create the illusion of grey shades � � � �by using letters for their light emitting value. � � � �Here is an example of how they break down by light intensity: � � � �(Jorn Barger's light value scale) � � � � � � � � � � Darker � �.'`,^:";~ � �Lighter � � � � � �bright � �/|\ � � �-_+<>i!lI? � � /|\ � � �dark � � � � � letters � � | � � � /\|()1{}[] � � �| � � letters � � � � � � �on � � � � � � � rcvunxzjft � � � � � � � on � � � � � � dark � � �| � � � LCJUYXZO0Q � � �| � � �bright � � � � �background �\|/ � � �oahkbdpqwm � � \|/ � background � � � � � � � � � � Lighter � *WMB8&%$#@ � Darker � � o �3-D images - Can be viewable by people with similar vision in � � � �both eyes. You try to focus as if you are looking at the back � � � �of the monitor. The image should pop into focus and create a � � � �3-D illusion. Other 3-D images are viewed by putting your nose � � � �on the monitor glass. � � o �Geometric Article - Text is formed into meaningful shapes. � � o �Picture Poem - A geometric article that is also a poem. � � o �Page Making - Text and graphics are intermixed, as in a magazine. � � o �Picture Story - A story told with accompanying ASCII pictures. � � o �Color - You can view color ASCII pics, if you have a color screen � � � �and 'ANSI' color compatible software, or Web access using HTML. � � o �Color Graphics - You can view color ASCII pics if you have color � � o �Animation - take a look at � � � � [dead-link snipped] � � o �Color Animation - take a look at � [dead-link snipped] � � o �Scroll Animation - This is an animation that is made to be viewed � � � �by scrolling down. �The image plays out as the screen is redrawn � � � �with the next 'page' of the image. � � o �Overstrike Art - It contains carriage returns without line feeds � � � �at times. The print head can overstrike a line on the paper that � � � �has already been printed on. �This allows for darkening, and for � � � �placing different characters at the same place on the paper. � � � �This kind of art is obviously only printed. ======================================================================== [X1] -------------------THE ASCII ART FAQ TEN COMMANDMENTS------------------- � � � � � �\\\\`/// � � � � � �/ �_ �_| � � � � � � � � �1. Thou shalt read the FAQ. � � � � � (\'('\/') � � � � � � � � �2. Thou shalt not remove the � � ______/( � �>(__ � � � � � � � � � � initials from any ASCII art. � �/`- � �\ \_=__| `\ � � � � � � � �3. Thou shalt not claim ownership � / � � � /__( �_____\ �_____ � � � � � �of someone else's ASCII art. �/_ \.____ � �," � � "." � � ",__ � �4. Thou shalt read the FAQ. | � �/ � _\__/_ � � � - � � � / �\ � 5. Thou shalt ask permission \/ � � �/____ �\ASCII ART FAQ /// � � � �before using someone else's �) � � / / � \__\ � � - � � � �| � � � � ASCII art. �'-.__|_/ � �///| I � � �VI � �| � � 6. Thou shalt not sell someone � � � \_ � � | � � � �| � � � �| � � � � else's ASCII art. � � � � | � �| � II � � �VII � | � � 7. Thou shalt read the darn FAQ. � � � � �\ � | � � � �| � � � �| � � 8. Thou shalt not post someone � � � � �/ � | �III � � �VIII �| � � � � else's ASCII art without making � � � � �\ � | � � � �| � � � �| � � � � clear that you didn't make it. � � � � � \_ | � IV � � �IX � �| � � 9. Thou shalt not assume that � � � � � � \| � � � �| � � � �| � � � � ASCII art isn't art at all. � � � � � � �| � �V � � �X � � | � �10. Thou shalt read the FAQing FAQ. � � � � � � �|______b'ger______| ======================================================================== |||| | | | | | �| �| �| � | � �| � � �| � �| � | �| �| �| | | | | |||| � � � �END �O F � T �H � E � � A � S �C �I �I � A �R T �FAQ |||| | | | | | �| �| �| � | � �| � � �| � �| � | �| �| �| | | | | |||| -- <PRE> � � __ ___ ___ :::/ �|_ �| . ):: ::( (-| |

X-Google-Thread: f996b,649bcfdf1e017a0c,start X-Google-Thread: fd588,649bcfdf1e017a0c,start X-Google-Thread: fbb9d,649bcfdf1e017a0c,start X-Google-Attributes: gidf996b,gidfd588,gidfbb9d,public X-Google-Language: ENGLISH,ASCII Path: g2news1.google.com!news1.google.com!newsfeed.stanford.edu!syros.belnet.be!news.belnet.be!irazu.switch.ch!switch.ch!news.belwue.de!informatik.tu-muenchen.de!uniol!lilly.ping.de!news.prima.de!bellut.net!uni-berlin.de!not-for-mail From: colin@shieldwolf.demon.co.uk (CJRandall) Newsgroups: alt.ascii-art,alt.ascii-art.animation,rec.arts.ascii Subject: [FAQ] ASCII Art - answers to frequently asked questions Followup-To: alt.ascii-art,rec.arts.ascii Date: 4 Oct 2004 19:15:15 GMT Lines: 1062 Approved: rec-arts-ascii-moderator@gweep.ca Message-ID: X-Trace: news.uni-berlin.de 9hnCnMBOQ3pu0PfZSwDKJwjiUBGen6WiDwKouG6ly/edr5e0c= Summary: Ascii-Art FAQ version 3

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� � � �__-------_ �| �_|`/ _____ \ \ \_/ /_._ � �`--._ �`-.|X||-./
� � � | � � � � �|/|_|_./_/_____\_\_\_____/=\`-._ � � `-. �|X||.|
� � � | � � � _,--------------.____ -========\_(A)`-.._ �`-|X||\
� Ool | � � _| � � � � � � � � � � ` � � � � |_`--. � �`-- |X||/
� /VK | � �| | ALT.ASCII-ART: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS � / ||-.
========================================================================
[Subject:] (FAQ) Welcome to ASCII art
========================================================================

__ �__ � __ � � _,
\\ �\\ � / ___ '|| �___ �___ __ �_ �_ � ___ � �_/|_ ___
�\\ /\\ / //_\) || // \)// \\ ||'||'|| //_\) � �|| // \\
� \/ �\/ �\\__,_||_\\__,\\_//_||_||_||_\\__, � �\|_\\_//

� � � � � � � ___ � ___ ____ ____
� � � � /\ � (( �/ // �| || � || � � ___ �_,_ _/|_
� � � �/_\\ � \\ �(( � � || � || � � __\\'||\) ||
� � �_/ �_\\_/__)) \\__,_||_ _||_ � ((_||_||_ �\|_


Answers to frequently asked questions about ASCII art
========================================================================
On the Web, the FAQ and other useful documents can be found in the
ASCII art Documentation Archive (ADA), at the following locations:-
========================================================================
*** There is a wealth of information about ASCII Art ***
*** � � � � in the ASCII Documents Archive � � � � � ***
========================================================================
� � � � � � � � �International Mirrors
========================================================================
http://www.sci.fi/~iltzu/ascii/ada/ � � � � � �(Helsinki, Finland)
http://www.ludd.luth.se/~vk/q/ada/ � � � � � � (Lulea, Sweden)
http://website.lineone.net/~martin.atkins/ada/ (London, UK)
http://votrezone.com/ada/ � � � � � � � � � � �(Calgary, Canada)
========================================================================
�-*+!%$%!+*-.-*+!%$%!+*-.-*+!%$%!+*-.-*+!%$%!+*-.-*+!%$%!+*-.-*+!%$%!+*-
========================================================================
Contents
========================================================================
�[1] �What's alt.ascii-art?
�[2] �What is ASCII art?
�[3] �What does ASCII mean?
�[4] �Why do all the pictures look strange?
�[5] �What font do you use for ASCII art?
�[6] �What program do you use for ASCII art?
�[7] �How do I draw my own ASCII art?
�[8] �Can someone do me some kewl lettering?
�[9] �Where can I find Figlet's address?
[10] �Can I copy or post that ASCII picture for myself?
[11] �What way works best to ask for a picture of something?
[12] �What should I know before posting to alt.ascii-art?
[13] �What to NOT post to alt.ascii-art? [da roolz]
[14] �Have a picture or graphic and would like it Asciified?
[15] �How do I convert a picture or graphic to ASCII art?
[16] �How do I put ASCII art on a webpage?
[17] �What are ASCII art signature files?
[18] �What is ASCII art animation?
[19] �What does ObAscii mean?
[20] �The ASCII Art Rough-Guide to m$.Outlook?
[21] �Where can I find pictures/tutorials/infos/chatrooms/experts?
[22] �Historacle's What types of ASCII art are there?
[X1] �The Ascii Art 10-Commandments

========================================================================
[1] �What's alt.ascii-art? �What's going on here?
========================================================================
� � You're probably reading this because it's been posted to
� � news:alt.ascii-art, news:alt.ascii-art.animation or rec.arts.ascii.
� � If you're not, jump in and take a look. �In these Usenet groups
� � people discuss ASCII art, request ASCII art, post ASCII art, post
� � improved versions or variations of other people's ASCII art, and
� � generally have fun.

========================================================================
[2] �What is ASCII art?
========================================================================
� � ASCII art is any sort of pictures or diagrams drawn with the
� � printable characters in the ASCII character set.
� � (For a definition of ASCII, see Question 3.)

� � :-) Probably the most common ASCII art picture is the smiley (-:
� � � � but it can get a lot more sophisticated than that.
� � � � � � � �____
� � � � � � .-" +' "-. � � �Here's a small ASCII picture of
� � � � � �/.'.'A_'*`.\ � � a snow-scene paperweight,
� � � � � |:.*'/\-\. ':| � �drawn by Joan Stark:
� � � � � |:.'.||"|.'*:|
� � � � � �\:~^~^~^~^:/ � � If this picture looks very strange and
� � � � � � /`-....-'\ � � �you can't really tell what it is,
� � � �jgs / � � � � �\ � � don't panic -- see Question 5.
� � � � � �`-.,____,.-'

� � People use ASCII art for a number of reasons. Here are some of them.
� � * � It is the most universal computer art form in the world --
� � � � every computer system capable of displaying multi-line text can
� � � � display ASCII art, without needing to have a graphics mode or
� � � � support a particular graphics file format.
� � * � An ASCII picture is hundreds of times smaller in file size
� � � � than its GIF or BMP equivalent, while still giving a good idea
� � � � of what something looks like.
� � * � It's easy to copy from one file to another (just cut and paste).
� � * � It's fun!

========================================================================
[3] �What does ASCII mean?
========================================================================
� � ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange)
� � � 7-bit as defined in ISO-646 is a basic set of 128 numbered symbols
� � � which almost all kinds of computer can display. Here are the ones
� � � that are used for ASCII art:

� � 032 [space] 048 0 � 064 @ � 080 P � 096 ` � 112 p
� � 033 ! � � � 049 1 � 065 A � 081 Q � 097 a � 113 q
� � 034 " � � � 050 2 � 066 B � 082 R � 098 b � 114 r
� � 035 # � � � 051 3 � 067 C � 083 S � 099 c � 115 s
� � 036 $ � � � 052 4 � 068 D � 084 T � 100 d � 116 t
� � 037 % � � � 053 5 � 069 E � 085 U � 101 e � 117 u
� � 038 &� � � �054 6 � 070 F � 086 V � 102 f � 118 v
� � 039 ' � � � 055 7 � 071 G � 087 W � 103 g � 119 w
� � 040 ( � � � 056 8 � 072 H � 088 X � 104 h � 120 x
� � 041 ) � � � 057 9 � 073 I � 089 Y � 105 i � 121 y
� � 042 * � � � 058 : � 074 J � 090 Z � 106 j � 122 z
� � 043 + � � � 059 ; � 075 K � 091 [ � 107 k � 123 {
� � 044 , � � � 060 <� �076 L � 092 \ � 108 l � 124 |
� � 045 - � � � 061 = � 077 M � 093 ] � 109 m � 125 }
� � 046 . � � � 062 >� �078 N � 094 ^ � 110 n � 126 ~
� � 047 / � � � 063 ? � 079 O � 095 _ � 111 o

� � There are other characters in the set (with the numbers 0 - 31 and
� � 127), but they can do bad stuff to Usenet readers, so PLEASE DON'T
� � USE THEM in your pictures (except characters 10 and or 13 which
� � are used to insert a new-line by a variety of Operating Systems).

========================================================================
[4] �Why do the pictures look strange?
========================================================================
� � If one particular picture posted to this group looks faulty, but the
� � rest of them look fine, then its most likely a problem with that
� � particular picture, or with the poster's Usenet program. But if
� � *all* the pictures look bad, then your Usenet reader may be set to
� � display messages in a proportional font (see Question 5).

� � * � If there are a lot of almost-blank lines in the picture, then
� � � � the message is probably suffering from `wrapping'. This
� � � � wrapping may be being done by your newsreader; see if it has an
� � � � option called `wrap long lines' or similar, and make sure it is
� � � � turned off. If this doesn't work, then the wrapping was probably
� � � � done by the news program of the person who sent the picture, in
� � � � which case there's not much you can do -- everybody else will be
� � � � seeing the same thing.

� � * � If there are a lot of <�and >�symbols in the �picture, with
� � � � words like HTML, FONT COLOR, B, I, and so on inside them, then
� � � � the picture has been sent in HTML format and your newsreader
� � � � does not understand HTML (most newsreaders don't).

========================================================================
[5] �What font do you use for ASCII art?
========================================================================
� � ASCII art is created using a fixed-width font (like on a traditional
� � typewriter), because this is the only way to make it portable.
� � However, several Usenet readers now display messages in a
� � proportional font (where different characters are different widths).

� � The following two lines tell you which kind of font you're using.
� � The arrow ends up in a different place for different font types and
� � is right most of the time:

� � You are using a [Proportional] [Monospaced] font
� � ................................. --^--

� � Also, to see what your program is doing, look at these two lines:
� � iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii|
� � WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW|
� � If they look the same length, you're using a fixed-width font and
� � all should be ok. If the second line is longer than the first, you
� � need to change your settings to use a fixed-width font.

� � � � In Netscape Messenger, this option is set in
� � � � � �Edit >�Preferences >�Mail &�Newsgroups.
� � � � In Outlook Express, the option is set in
� � � � � �View >�Options >�Fonts �(see Question 20)
� � � � In Forte Agent, the option is set in
� � � � � �Options >�Display Preferences >�Fonts
� � � � and Free Agent, the option is set in
� � � � � �Options >�General Preferences >�Fonts
� � � � The AOL newsreader can not, at the time of writing,
� � � � display Usenet messages in a fixed-width font at all.

� � Detailed information on how to configure other Usenet readers is
� � available at the:
� � � ASCII-Art Documentation Archive (see the beginning of this FAQ).
� � If all else fails, copy the text of the picture from
� � your program and paste it into a text editor (such as Notepad).
� � It's a hassle, but at least you'll get to see the pictures.

========================================================================
[6] �What program do you use for ASCII art?
========================================================================
� � You can create ASCII art in any text editor, � � [jorn barger]
� � such as: Notepad in Windows,
� � SimpleText or BBEdit in MacOS,
� � nedit, vi, vim, or pico in Unix, � � � � � � � � � _+m"m+_
� � BEd or AZ in AmigaOS, edit in DOS, � � � � � � � �Jp � � qh
� � or any of the various Emacs editors. � � � � � � �O � � � O
� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � Yb � � dY
� � A �'quick-start' �program �for learning � � � � � �"Y5m2Y"
� � is JavE, a free Java program, that can be
� � obtained from:- � � � � �http://www.jave.de

� � Some editors have features which make them more
� � suitable for �ASCII art �than others, but that is
� � largely a matter of personal opinion. Features which
� � are both useful for �ASCII art �and �available in many
� � text editors, include the following:-

� � * � Overtype, also known as overstrike: removes the need for
� � � � you to constantly realign characters using the �Backspace,
� � � � Space, and Delete keys. Try the �Insert key if there is one
� � � � on your keyboard, �or �your program's Options or Preferences.

� � * � Rectangular copy and paste: allows you to select rectangular
� � � � sections of text (not just rows or parts of rows). On programs
� � � � which have this feature, it is usually done by holding down a
� � � � key such as Ctrl while selecting text.

� � * � Find/Change: allows you to change all the characters of one
� � � � value to another (eg: change all the ~s to "s).

========================================================================
[7] �How do I draw my own ASCII art?
========================================================================
� � Unfortunately, there aren't many text books on the subject. :-)
� � A good way to learn is to study how someone has made a picture.
� � What characters are chosen and how the characters are laid out.
� � How a texture is made.

� � ########:::::::::::######## � The best way to learn is to Practise.
� � #########:::::::::######### � Draw your cat, your toaster, your
� � ##########:::::::########## � partner, your musical instruments,
� � ###########,---.########### � anything that will sit still long
� � ##########/`---'\########## � enough. �Practice makes, if not
� � #########/ � � � \######### � perfect, then at least pretty good.
� � ########/ � � � � \######## � Whether you do small drawings (less
� � #######:`-._____.-':####### � work involved) or large ones (easier
� � ######::::: ( ) |::::###### � to make recognizable) is up to you.
� � #####:::::: ) ( o:::::##### � If you're interested in tutorials,
� � ####::::: .-(_)-. :::::#### � there are many available from the
� � ###:::::: '=====' ::::::### � ASCII-art Documentation Archive.
� � ########################Mk#
� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �_
� � A good way to begin drawing is to � � �\`"-.
� � type a row of spaces for however � � � �) �_`-.
� � wide you want your picture, and � � � �, �: `. \
� � then copy this row and paste it � � � �: _ � ' �\
� � for however many rows high you � � � � ; *` _. � `--._
� � think the picture will get. � � � � � �`-.-' � � � � �`-.
� � Turn Overtype on and place the � � � � � | � � � ` � � � `.
� � cursor �somewhere in the middle � � � � �:. � � � . � � � �\
� � and begin drawing. This can save � � � � | \ �. � : � .-' � .
� � using �Delete, Backspace, Enter � � � � �: �)-.; �; �/ � � �:
� � and Space-bar keystrokes. � � � � � � � �: �; �| : �: � � � ;-.
� � Saving this empty �`canvas' as a � � � � ; / � : |`-: � � _ `- )
� � read-only file for future use can � � ,-' / �,-' ; .-`- .' `--'
� � save you even more time later. � � � �`--' � `---' `---' bug

� � Another method is by tracing a picture either onto clear-plastic
� � and sticking it onto the screen then opening an editor to trace
� � under or using an editor which allows the loading of a background
� � image to trace over, a process known as `water-mark'.

� � You can also modify existing art. Take a piece of art you think
� � could be improved. �Make a copy. �Now work on it. �When you are
� � good at that, try to improve a really good pic. Then see if you
� � can fix a damaged file. �Now take some small pics and put them
� � together into a big composite image.

� � When drawing ASCII art be aware that there are a few characters
� � that differ in size, shape and position among fonts:
� � ' apostrophe -- tilts southwest-northeast or vertical
� � ^ caret -- differs in size and shape
� � ~ tilde -- appears in the middle or top
� � I aye � -- straight line in sans-serif, with strokes in serif
� � � � � � � �try using the vertical bar (|) instead.
� � # hash �-- hash symbol on most, currency on some old computers.

========================================================================
[8] �Can someone do me some kewl lettering?
========================================================================
� � There is a program called Figlet which does that sort of thing
� � automatically -- you type in `Jane Smith', and you get back

� � � � ___ � � � � � � �__,
� � � �( / � � � � � � �( � � � � �o _/_ /
� � � � / __, �_ � _ � � `. �_ _ �, �/ �/_
� � � _/_(_/(_/ /_(/_ �(___)/ / /_(_(__/ /_
� � �//
� � (/

� � in this and a whole lot of other fonts (see Question 9).
� � The ASCII art text produced by Figlet can be quite stunning,
� � so try it first before asking for help from the newsgroups.

� � IF, however, Figlet doesn't produce the kind of results you want,
� � THEN post to alt.ascii-art or rec.arts.ascii with your request and
� � ensure that you include:
� � * � �that you have already tried Figlet or don't have access to it
� � � � �otherwise you will probably just get told to use it.
� � * � �a description of the kind of lettering you want, along with
� � � � �any other symbols or logos which you would like incorporated
� � � � �into it.

========================================================================
[9] �Where can I find Figlet ?
========================================================================
� � The Figlet home page is at:- � http://www.figlet.org/
� � and links to the FTP site:- � � ftp://ftp.figlet.org/pub/figlet/
� � where you can download versions of the program or source-code
� � for many different platforms.

� � You can run Figlet on the Web by going to one of the following sites
� � and choosing your text and options on the Web page. Different sites
� � offer different options (e.g. multiple fonts at once, justification,
� � and limited line length). Some of these sites also provide an e-mail
� � Figlet service for people with browsers which don't support forms.

� � * � �http://schnoggo.com/figlet.html
� � * � �http://www.network-science.de/ascii/
� � * � �http://home.cern.ch/~rigaut/FigletJava.html
� � * � �http://software.hixie.ch/utilities/cgi/figlet/figlet

========================================================================
[10] �Can I copy or post that ASCII picture for myself?
========================================================================
� � � �.
� � � / \ � � � � � � � � � � Don't assume that if somebody posts
� � � | | � � � � � � � � � � something to a Usenet group, that gives
� � � |.| � � � � � � � � � � you the right to use it however you like,
� � � |.| � � � � � � � � � � copyright laws still apply.
� � � |:| � � �__ � � � � � � For more information, see the article:-
� � ,_|:|_, � / �) � � � � � �Copyright Myths FAQ:
� � � (Oo � �/ _I_ � � � � � � `10 big myths about copyright explained'
� � � �+\ \ �|| __| � � � � � in news:news.announce.newusers.
� � � � � \ \||___|
� � � � � � \ /.:.\-\ � � � � It is also available at:-
� � � � � � �|.:. /-----\ � � http://www.clari.net/brad/copymyths.html
� � � � � � �|___|::oOo::|
� � � � � � �/ � |:<_T_>:| � �Generally, ASCII artists don't mind
� � � � � � |_____\ ::: / � � if you copy their pictures and
� � � � � � �| | �\ \:/ � � � re-post them or put them on your own
� � � � � � �| | � | | � � � �Web site, as long as you don't
� � �[nosig] \ / � | \__ � � �make any money out of them.
� � � � � � �/ | � \____\
� � � � � � �`-'
� � Here are a few important considerations:-

� � * � If the picture contains a few letters in one corner which don't
� � � � seem to be part of the picture, they're the �artist's initials.
� � � � DO NOT remove these initials -- would you cut away the part of
� � � � a Van Gogh painting containing his name? �Leaving the initials
� � � � on is a small price to pay for being able to use the picture
� � � � for free.

� � * � If you're going to use a picture in your signature file, or in
� � � � a place (such as a log-in screen) which means you're going to
� � � � be using it a lot, you should really e-mail the artist (or post
� � � � to the newsgroup, if you don't know their address) and ask for
� � � � permission, because otherwise people may get the mistaken
� � � � impression that you were the one who drew the picture.

� � * � If you find a picture you want to use, or post, but it doesn't
� � � � have initials on it, a common method of marking has been to use
� � � � the tag: Unknown. More recently the tag: [nosig] has been used.

� � As for posting other people's ASCII art,
� � after a discussion in news:alt.ascii-art � � � _ � � ___
� � the following rules were agreed upon: � � � � #_~`--'__ `===-,
� � 1. �If an ASCII ART picture has initials � � �`.`. � � `#.,//
� � � � on it, leave them on when posting it � � �,_\_\ � � ## #\
� � 2. �If an ASCII ART picture doesn't have � � �`__.__ � �`####\
� � � � initials on it, �mention �that �you � � � � � �~~\ ,###'~
� � � � didn't �draw �it �when �posting �it. � � � � � � �\##'
� � 3. �If somebody �posts a picture without � � � � � � � � �[nosig]
� � � � initials and you have an original copy
� � � � with initials on, feel free to re-post the original version.
� � � � * � The re-post ought not to be taken personally, as we all
� � � � � � know that ASCII art often loses proper credits.
� � � � � � Responses to the re-post are not necessary.

� � One contributor, name of Krogg, suggested the following:

� � 1.) Ultra polite:...ya make yer own ascii and use it.
� � 2.) �Very polite:...Ya contact the author and ask if ya
� � � � � � � � � � � � can use it...
� � 3.) � � � polite:...Ya use it but you keep the Credits
� � � � � � � � � � � � in there like they should be.
� � 4.) � � � � rude:...Ya use it and strip credits.
� � 5.) � �Very rude:...Ya use it and claim that it Is
� � � � � � � � � � � � _Your_ very own creation...

� � You choose ... I think the default choice is #3 but you should
� � make up yer own mind....

========================================================================
[11] �What way works best to ask for a picture of something?
========================================================================
� � Give your request the subject: �`REQ:' or `[req]'
� � Whatever you're looking for a picture of, in the message describe
� � more exactly what you're looking for. Generally, the more specific
� � you are, the more likely you are to get some response.
� � If you just say something like:
� � � � �`can someone draw me a fish, please'
� � then you may not get many replies, because people may not know
� � what size or feel they're wasting their time by drawing something
� � you won't want. If you don't have Web access, mention this fact,
� � otherwise you may get replies consisting only of URLs for the
� � kind of pictures you're looking for.
� � If someone is rude back to you directly, then please be patient,
� � since it may just be a troll trying to wind you up.
� � � � � __
� � � � .' �)) �__-:!:- � � � � � � � �If you have a picture
� � � � � .' �.' �)) � � � � � � � � � and want it Ascii-fied
� � � � ((__,' �.' �.ASCII! -:!:- � � �see Question 14 and 15.
� � � � -:!:- ((__,'^*

========================================================================
[12] �What should I know before posting to alt.ascii-art?
========================================================================
� � It doesn't matter if your ASCII art isn't particularly good; we'd
� � like to see it anyway. We won't be rude about it (although you'd
� � better tell us what it is, or we might ask :-), but if it shows
� � potential, you may find that other people will `re-diddle' it --
� � change a few characters, make it a bit better, and re-post it.

� � HOWEVER, there are a few things you should check before you
� � post to news:alt.ascii-art any piece of ASCII art
� � (see also Question 13).

� � * � Are you sending it as PLAIN TEXT?
� � � � Turn off "send MIME message" and select "PLAIN TEXT only".

� � * � Is it under 72 characters wide? Most news readers can only show
� � � � lines which are under either 72, 76, or 80 characters wide, so
� � � � if your picture is wider than 72 characters it may get wrapped
� � � � [see Question 4]. Also remove any unnecessary space characters
� � � � from the end of each line of the picture, to prevent lines from
� � � � being too long (and getting wrapped) without your realizing.

� � * � If it IS over 72 characters wide?
� � � � Then a warning in the subject line [wide:110] or whatever the
� � � � original picture width and Check Your Post Output Line-Wrap
� � � � settings. �[for Outlook see Question 20]
� � � � Previous versions of this FAQ used a system to prefix posts
� � � � such as: [pic] [info] [req] [big] which may be used as a guide
� � � � when providing warnings.

� � * � Have you used any TAB characters or Control Codes?
� � � � Inserting control codes (ASCII characters 0 to 31) in a picture
� � � � can sometimes achieve interesting effect on your computer screen
� � � � or news reader, such as reversing text or changing its colour.
� � � � DO NOT post any of these pictures to news:alt.ascii-art, post to
� � � � news:alt.binaries.pictures.ascii instead for two reasons:-

� � � � 1. �the effects that the control codes have on your news reader
� � � � � � are almost certainly going to be �different �from those on
� � � � � � the thousands of other news readers that other people use

� � � � 2. �on some news readers, control codes can cause �messed up
� � � � � � displays, messages not appearing, or (in some cases) the
� � � � � � news reader crashing.

� � * � If your first line starts with one or more spaces, stick a
� � � � dummy line (such as -- or .) above it, to prevent the spaces
� � � � from being ignored by your news program (this only applies to
� � � � some news programs, and only to the first line of the
� � � � message).

� � If you're not sure about whether your message will turn out ok,
� � post it to a test group (such as news:alt.test or news:misc.test)
� � first and make sure that you can read it ok, also using a different
� � newsreader, if you can.

� � [See Question 10 for advice on posting someone else's ASCII art.]

========================================================================
[13] �What to NOT post to alt.ascii-art? [da roolz]
========================================================================
[13.1] � � � � � �ASCII art is a very simple medium.

� � � � � � �/\ � � � / � �/\ �/ � / � � � � � �/\ �/\ � /
� � � � � � �\/\ \ � /\ � �\/\ \/\ \ � \ �\ �__ \/\ \/_ /\
� � � � � � � \ � \/ � \ o �\ � �/ �\/ �\ �\ � � \ � \ � �\
� � � � � � _ �_ � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � _ �_
� � � ___ (~ )( ~) � The following List of Items � � � (~ )( ~) ___
� � �/ � \_\ \/ / � � �should NOT be posted to � � � � �\ \/ /_/ � \
� � | � D_ ]\ \/ � � � � the Usenet groups:- � � � � � � \/ /[ _G � |
� � | � D _]/\ \ � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � / /\[_ G � |
� � �\___/ / /\ \ � news:alt.ascii-art � � � � � � � � �/ /\ \ \___/
� � �mark (_ )( _) �news:alt.ascii-art.animation � � � (_ )( _) JavE
� � � � � � ~ �~ � �news:alt.ascii-art.endless.blabla � �~ �~

� � � � � � � � � � news:alt.binaries.pictures.ascii

� � � � NOTE: alt.binaries.pictures.ascii supports posting of ASCII
� � � � � � software tools or fonts (in ZIP format) and binary images
� � � � � � of ASCII or other FontSet (in GIF format) and any other
� � � � � � ASCII art related material, but no Spam, in relation to
� � � � � � discussions in the alt.ascii-art newsgroups.
� � � � � � Use the subject header: [abpa] for easy identification.

� � � � � � � � � � � -= List of Items =-

� � * � Binaries, Trojans, Zombies, Virus, Spam.

� � * � ANSI,`extended ASCII' or `high ASCII', and non-Western font art.
� � � � Post it to news:rec.arts.ascii (see Section[13.2]).
� � � � Many computer systems have an extended character set of 256 or
� � � � more characters, based on the ANSI, Unicode or BIG5 character
� � � � sets and having the first 128 characters possibly identical to
� � � � ASCII. These characters should not be sent to news:alt.ascii-art
� � � � because many computer system types do not display them properly,
� � � � even those that do, do not display them in a standard way, for
� � � � example, the Windows ANSI character set is different to the
� � � � Macintosh ANSI character set. Capture and send a GIF of it to
� � � � news:alt.binaries.pictures.ascii or put it on a Web page and
� � � � post a reference to it to news:alt.ascii-art.

� � * � HTML (HyperText Markup Language) which Web pages are written in
� � � � can be read by some Usenet readers, particularly those built-in
� � � � to Web browsers, allowing colours and animations in ASCII art,
� � � � however, few newsreaders support it and to many appears as a
� � � � jumble of �and are totally unrecognizable,
� � � � If you have a picture which uses HTML for a particular feature
� � � � such as colors or animation, put it on a Web page and post
� � � � the URL address of the page to news:alt.ascii-art.

� � * � JAVA, JavaScript, Flash, GIF or whatever animated ASCII art.
� � � � This relies, not only on the newsreader being able to display
� � � � HTML, but also being able to run Java or JavaScript.
� � � � Put it on a Web page and post the address to
� � � � news:alt.ascii-art.animation and news:alt.ascii-art

� � * � Proportional Font ASCII art screws up on many readers' displays
� � � � Post it to news:rec.arts.ascii (see Section[13.2]).
� � � � Send a GIF of it to �news:alt.binaries.pictures.ascii or put it
� � � � on a Web page and post a reference to it to news:alt.ascii-art
� � � �

� � Finally, do not use any control codes, non-ASCII characters,
� � or word-processor-type formatting in your postings. These are
� � particular to your editor or computer system they will almost
� � certainly not have the intended effect on the systems the rest
� � of us use (they may even crash some Usenet readers).


� � ====================================================================
[13.2] �What can I post to rec.arts.ascii?
� � ====================================================================

� � � � � /\ �/ � / � � /\ �/\ � / �/ � �/\ �/ � /
� � � � � \/_ \/ �\ � � \/\ \/_ /\ �\/\ �\/\ \/\ \ � \ �\
� � � � � �\ � \/ �\/ o �\ � \ � �\ � / o \ � �/ �\/ �\ �\

� � The official charter for rec.arts.ascii, as sent in the newsgroup
� � control message, is:

� � � The group news:rec.arts.ascii will be an appropriate group for
� � � postings to include, but not be limited to, the following:

� � � o �All forms of ASCII art including, but not limited to:
� � � � �- �Standard ASCII art.
� � � � �- �Animations.
� � � � �- �ANSI color graphics.
� � � o �Discussion about pieces of art.
� � � o �Requests for specific pieces of art, and their fulfilment.
� � � o �Questions and answers covering:
� � � � �- �Creating and viewing ASCII art.
� � � � �- �Locating FTP sites for ASCII art and related files.
� � � o �Discussion about artists in the field.

� � rec.arts.ascii is a moderated group meaning that all posts are
� � reviewed before being sent to the group. That work is done by a
� � robo-moderator which filters Spam and checks the posts have the
� � correct format before approving them. �It can also target a
� � specific poster's traffic for human moderator approval.

� � Subjects must be tagged either:
� � [PIC] for pictures
� � [REQ] for requests for others to draw pictures
� � � � � (people replying with pictures change the tag to [PIC])
� � [DIS] for general ascii art related discussion and replies.
� � [ADMIN] for the moderator to post important information.

� � >>� NOTE: Please read:-

� � � � � � http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/asciiart/guidelines.txt

� � >>� for concise up-to-date list of permitted subject tags
� � >>� and usage before posting.

� � The robo-mod also checks that the posts are in PLAIN TEXT only,
� � that line length is set to LESS than 80 characters UNLESS the
� � phrase [long lines] is in the BODY of the post, when the LIMIT
� � is then raised to 200 characters.

� � Cross-posting is permitted provided that:
� � � o - it is to no more than three groups
� � � o - the followup-to header is set to only one group.
� � Cross-posting to other moderated groups is NOT permitted.

========================================================================
[14] �I have a picture and I would like it Asciified?
========================================================================
� � In this case, post a request to news:alt.ascii-art asking for
� � someone to `asciify' it, but
� � � � >>>� PLEASE DON'T POST THE PICTURE ITSELF �<<<
� � to save downloading time for people reading the messages,
� � if possible give the URL (Web address) of the picture instead.

� � If you saw the picture on a Web page, you can find out its URL by
� � right-clicking on it (on the Macintosh, right-clicking,
� � Ctrl-clicking, or holding down the mouse button) and selecting
� � `Open this image' (or its equivalent for your Web browser), then
� � copy the URL from the Location bar to your news program (make sure
� � you copy it exactly).

� � If the picture is not on a Web site anywhere, put it up on your own
� � site (if you have one), or get a friend to put it up on their site,
� � and post the URL to alt.ascii-art. If you can't do this, post your
� � request to the newsgroups and wait for someone to reply, then post
� � the picture to news:alt.binaries.pictures.ascii or e-mail to them.

========================================================================
[15] �How do I convert a picture to ASCII art?
========================================================================
[15.1] programs:
� � There are computer programs available which convert graphics files
� � of a variety of formats (often GIF) to ASCII art. They go by names
� � such as ascgif, gifa, gifscii, and gif2ascii. �Do a Web search for
� � any of these programs to find places where you can download them.

� � Try:
� � � � gopher://twinbrook.cis.uab.edu/1A/atools.70
� � � � ftp://ftp.simtel.com/.
� � � � http://www.jave.de/. � � � � � � � � � � � � <== new

� � Many think that you just put a GIF into a converter program and
� � out comes a perfect ASCII pic. �Here are some things you can do
� � to improve the chances of getting a good conversion:-

� � o � Use an 8 bit grey scale or color image instead of a 2 bit B&W.
� � o � Use an image with a wide, even distribution of tones.
� � o � Keep it simple, like a face or close-up of an object.
� � o � Avoid busy backgrounds. �Generally avoid bright backgrounds.
� � o � Use an image that is tightly cropped, without a lot of waste.
� � o � Be prepared to quickly run through a series of conversions,
� � � � you will probably not like 9 to 11 out of 12.
� � o � It helps to do touch-up work on the converted picture,
� � � � concentrate on the focal points and important areas.

[15.2] tracing:
� � Another method is by tracing a picture, either onto clear-plastic
� � and sticking it onto the screen then opening an editor to trace
� � under or using an editor which allows the loading of a background
� � image to trace over, a process known as `water-mark'.

[15.3] image2html:
� � There are computer programs and web-servers available which convert
� � graphics files of a variety of formats (often GIF) to HTML colored
� � TEXT art for use on web-pages. Do a quick search on your favourite
� � web search-engine.

========================================================================
[16] �How do I put ASCII art on a webpage?
========================================================================
� � HTML, the language used in Web pages, can display ASCII art using
� � the "preformatted text" tags ��like this:-

� � 
� � 
� � �Ascii art on a webpage
� � </TILE>
� � </HEAD>
� � <BODY>
� � <PRE>
� � � � .----------------------------------------.
� � � �: � � �__ � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �:
� � � �: � =='_)) �__-:!:- � � (your ascii here) �:
� � � �: � � ,.' .' �))-:!:- � � � � � � � � � � �:
� � � �: � �((_,' �.'-:!:- � � � � � � � � � � � �:
� � � �: � ~^~~~^~~^~~~^~ � � � � � � � � � � � � :
� � � � `----------------------------------------'
� � </PRE>
� � </BODY>
� � </HTML>

� � HTML can be used to add special effects such as colours, font size,
� � and blinking text. For full instructions on how to do this see:-

� � http://llizard.crosswinds.net/ascii-art/asciionpage.htm

========================================================================
[17] �What should I know about signature files?
========================================================================
� � A signature file (or `sig' for short; not to be confused with the
� � initials added to an ASCII picture) is a small, personalized text
� � file which an e-mail or news program can add to the end of every
� � message a person sends -- the equivalent of a letterhead for dead
� � tree (paper) mail (or snail-mail). Usually it contains little more
� � than the person's name, organization and e-mail address, maybe an
� � inspirational quote of some sort and some people like to incorporate
� � ASCII art into their signature files as well.

� � � � _ _ � � �_ � �_ _ �_ ___ ___ � � � � � \|/ ____ \|/
� � � �| | | ___| | �(_) \| | __/ __| � � � � � @~/ ,. \~@
� � � �|_ �_|___| |__| | .` | _|\__ \ � � � � �/_( \__/ )_\ Mike
� � � � �|_| � �|____|_|_|\_|___|___/[Figlet] � � \__U_/ � �Jittlov

� � The lack of importance in relation to global warming, violence in
� � society, and so on, can be the subject of heated arguments. To be
� � brief, (almost) no-one will complain if your signature file is four
� � lines long or fewer -- and it is quite possible to draw good ASCII
� � pictures which are that small.
� � � � � � � � �_______________________________________________
� � � � (@) (@) � �`) There are a lot of web-pages on this with )
� � � �^ �<�>� ^ � �( � google search ascii sig. � � � � _______)
� � � � � === � � � �`----Richard James-----------------'

� � Some e-mail/news programs don't allow you to have a signature file
� � which is longer than four lines, while others just complain. Five or
� � six lines may be acceptable, but �any longer, and you're starting to
� � take the risk that your signature will be longer than some of your
� � e-mail messages; this wouldn't really make sense on paper, so it
� � isn't really acceptable in cyberspace either. The exception is in
� � messages posted to news:alt.ascii-art itself -- we're used to seeing
� � long sigs, so we won't complain.

� � � �-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-'*((,,.-

� � But, no matter what the length of your signature, make sure it's
� � fewer than 72 characters wide, otherwise it may end up a horrible
� � mess (see Question 8).

========================================================================
[18] �What is ascii-animation?
========================================================================
� � An animated image produced by a sequence of changing ASCII pictures.
� � The speed will depend on the system you are using.
� � -----------------------------------------------------------------
� � �o � \ o / �_ o � � � � __| � �\ / � � |__ � � � �o _ �\ o / � o
� � /|\ � �| � � /\ � __\o � �\o � �| � �o/ � �o/__ � /\ � � | � �/|\
� � / \ � / \ � | \ �/) �| � �( \ �/o\ �/ ) � �| �(\ �/ | � / \ � / \
� � -----------------------------------------------------------------
� � Ascii-Animation transports vary a lot. The earliest known portable
� � types used the Control-Codes of the (often .VT or .ANS) terminal
� � screens for either `paging' or `direct cursor addressing'.
� � Sometimes found as c-code in .sigs, which, when compiled and run
� � produce moving patterns or images.
� � -----------------------------------------------------------------
� � � � � � � � � � � o � � � � _ � � � �_ � � � � � �_
� � � � � �_o � � � �/\_ � � �_ \\o � � (_)\__/o � � (_)
� � � � �_<�\_ � � �_>(_) � �(_)/<_ � � � \_| \ � � �_|/' \/
� � � � (_)>(_) � �(_) � � � � � (_) � � �(_) � � � (_)' �_\o_
� � -----------------------------------------------------------------
� � Most Web Ascii-Animation uses Java or Javascript.

� � * �To find out how to animate ASCII art using JavaScript, see:-
� � � �http://www.geocities.com/SouthBeach/Marina/4942/faq_hta.htm
� � � �http://llizard.crosswinds.net/ascii-art/animation/animlesson.htm

� � * �To find out how to animate ASCII art using Java, see:-
� � � �http://www.jave.de/.
� � � �http://www.jave.de/javeplayer/.

========================================================================
[19] �What does ObAscii mean?
========================================================================
� � ObAscii = Obligatory Ascii

� � Obligatory: [adj] compulsory (of a ruling) having binding force

� � Ascii: [slang] ascii-art picture

� � A funny way to remind people to put a drawing in their post.

� � This means an ascii in every post! (especially off-topic threads)
� � Failure to comply can result in flaming! This implies that if you
� � don't include an ascii in your post you deserve to get flamed!

� � ====================================================================
� � The concept of ObAscii has been around since the creation of the
� � usenet group news:alt.ascii-art and it's purpose is to provide some
� � on-topic content to an otherwise off-topic posting.

� � ====================================================================
� � *NOT* The 1st ever! ObAscii :
� � ====================================================================
� � From: Matthew Thomas <mpt26@spamfree.land>
� � Date: Thu, 08 Oct 1998 13:50:09 +1300
� � Organization: University of Canterbury.nz (opinions are my own)

� � � � � � � ^
� � � � � � ,' \ � � � � � � � � [snip - 3rd party flame ]
� � � � � � L""/
� � � � � � ` | � � � � � � � � �BOLLOCKS!!!
� � � � � � J |
� � � � � � J L � � � � � � � � �I am staying out of this as much as
� � � � � � | | . �, � � � � � � possible, Colin, because I really ...
� � � � � � | | `v_L.'
� � � � � �// ,>'--\'_ � � � � � :.
� � � � � �\`' \ - /-. � � � � � [snip - rant/rave]
� � � � � �/ � /`""| � � � � � � :.
� � � � � � ),' � �`-
� � � � � �( � �,-' �\ � � � � � Anyway, �I think a lot of this
� � � � � � ) ,' ,' � h � � � � �flaming would decrease if everyone
� � � � � �/ / �/ � � `)--.. � � was required to post a (different)
� � � � � �\/ �/ � � � \ �<) � � obligatory ASCII pic in each message
� � � � � � <� � � � , �L<' � � �-- at the very least, it would slow
� � � � � � F/ � � _/ �,' � � � �the flames down.
� � � � � � L � ,-' � � \
� � � � � � | � � � � ___L � � � So, to start the trend, here's my
� � � � � �/ � � � � ( �F
� � � � � J � � �___,' �L � � � �ObAscii: the Statue of Liberty.
� � � � � | � �,' � � � |
� � � � � F �,' � � � � |
� � � � �(_,--..__ �mt-2|_
� � � � ,' � � � �`"`--.._\
� � � ,' / � � � � � � � � \
� � �/ � � � � � � � � � � (_
� � [snip - .sig of Matthew Thomas]

========================================================================
[20] �The ASCII Art Rough-Guide to m$.Outlook?
========================================================================
� � Microsoft's Outlook Express program has a number of flaws, including
� � * deleting spaces from the beginning of lines, and
� � * inserting the word `file://' in unexpected places
� � which make it very difficult when using it for ASCII art. Whether
� � these are bugs or features we don't know and a registry patch to fix
� � some of the flaws in Outlook Express is available from the ADA.

� � ====================================================================
� � How to get rid of blue-lines in OE5:

� � 1. Press the decode button twice when viewing a blue-struck image.
� � � �Because, after ROT13, OE will not parse links and so 2 x ROT13
� � � �returns everything back to normal, but without the blue lines.
� � 2. Create a button in your toolbar so you can do it quickly.

� � � �In OE 5.5-6.0 the URL parsing code is slightly better and
� � � �doesn't foul as many images as previous versions.

� � ====================================================================
� � How to stop Ms.Outlook giving wrapped output
� � � � or the ascii-art you are sending is wider than 72 characters:

� � 1. �Tools menu
� � 2. �Options
� � 3. �Send
� � 4. �Both of these Mail and News format
� � 5. �Plain text settings � � � � ____
� � 6. �Automatically wrap text at |____|

� � ====================================================================
� � How to set your Outlook Express 6 to view ASCII art correctly:

� � 1. �On the TOOLS menu, click OPTIONS
� � 2. �Select the READ tab
� � 3. �International settings
� � 4. �"Use default encoding for all incoming messages" [tick]
� � 5. �Set the FONTS to display as western european.
� � � � set both the PROPORTIONAL font and FIXED-WIDTH font to
� � � � LUCIDA CONSOLE, and FONT SIZE to SMALLER
� � 6. �Click OK, then OK again.

� � ====================================================================
� � How to set your Outlook Express 5 to view ASCII art correctly:

� � 1. �On the TOOLS menu, click OPTIONS
� � 2. �Select the READ tab
� � 3. �Click the FONTS button near the bottom of the box
� � 4. �For the languages UNICODE, WESTERN EUROPEAN and USER DEFINED
� � � � set both the PROPORTIONAL font and FIXED-WIDTH font to
� � � � LUCIDA CONSOLE, and FONT SIZE to SMALLER
� � 5. �Click OK, then OK again.

� � ====================================================================
� � How to set your Outlook Express 4 to view ASCII art correctly:

� � 1. �On the TOOLS menu, click OPTIONS
� � 2. �Select the READ tab
� � 3. �Click the FONTS button near the bottom of the box
� � 4. �For the languages UNIVERSAL ALPHABET, USER DEFINED and WESTERN
� � � � set both the PROPORTIONAL font and FIXED-WIDTH font to
� � � � LUCIDA CONSOLE, and FONT SIZE to SMALLER
� � 5. �Click OK, then OK again.

� � ====================================================================
� � NOTE : If LUCIDA CONSOLE is not available as a font, pick another
� � � � � �from the list of available FIXED-WIDTH fonts.

� � Examples of fixed-width fonts � � � �1. � ANDALE MONO
� � commonly available with ms.windows: �2. � COURIER NEW
� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �3. � LUCIDA CONSOLE
� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �4. � LUCIDA SANS TYPEWRITER
� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �5. � OCR A EXTENDED

� � If you have followed the above steps correctly, you should now
� � be able to view and create ASCII art as it should be.

========================================================================
[21] �Where do I find ASCII art pictures, tutorials and information?
========================================================================
� � There are a number of ASCII art Usenet groups:-

� � � news:alt.ascii-art
� � � news:alt.ascii-art.animation
� � � news:alt.ascii-art.endless.blabla
� � � news:alt.binaries.pictures.ascii
� � � news:rec.arts.ascii

� � are English-speaking ones that are widely used.

� � alt.ascii-art � � � � � � � �[original ASCII art discussion group]
� � alt.ascii-art.animation � � �[is about animating ASCII art]
� � alt.ascii-art.endless.blabla [an off-topic follow-up troll-trap]
� � alt.binaries.pictures.ascii �[ASCII art sofware/image drop-zone]
� � rec.arts.ascii � � � � � � � [primary moderated ASCII art group]

� � Lots of ASCII artists put up libraries of their own and others'
� � ASCII art on their Web sites, as well as tutorials on how to draw
� � ASCII art:

� � � � The DMOZ Open Directory Project ASCII art sites:
� � � � � http://dmoz.org/Arts/ASCII/.

� � � � Allen Mullen has links to many of these sites at:
� � � � � http://www.geocities.com/SoHo/2695/links.htm.

� � � The Ascii-Art Dictionary at: � �The Ascii-Art dot com at:
� � � � http://www.ascii-art.de � � � � http://www.ascii-art.com

� � The Ascii-Art Document Archive (address as listed in the header)

� � There is an on-line panel of experts at: The ASCIItorium
� � � http://www.ludd.luth.se/~vk/cgi/asciichat/

� � And webrings:
� � � http://artcode.org/ascii/index.php
� � � http://webring.org/ascii/

� � Also IRCascii.8bit:
� � � http://www.geocities.com/SouthBeach/Marina/4942/ascii.htm
� � � http://www.bluedwarf.net/ � (irc.bluedwarf.net#ascii)
� � � http://www.remorse.org/ � � (irc.efnet#ascii)


========================================================================
[22] �Historacle: from the old-old FAQ v1.2 March 14, 1994
========================================================================
� � What types of ascii-art are there?

� � o �Linedrawing - like stickmen
� � o �Lettering - like Figlet does
� � o �Grey scale pictures - These create the illusion of grey shades
� � � �by using letters for their light emitting value.
� � � �Here is an example of how they break down by light intensity:
� � � �(Jorn Barger's light value scale)

� � � � � � � � � � Darker � �.'`,^:";~ � �Lighter
� � � � � �bright � �/|\ � � �-_+<>i!lI? � � /|\ � � �dark
� � � � � letters � � | � � � /\|()1{}[] � � �| � � letters
� � � � � � �on � � � � � � � rcvunxzjft � � � � � � � on
� � � � � � dark � � �| � � � LCJUYXZO0Q � � �| � � �bright
� � � � �background �\|/ � � �oahkbdpqwm � � \|/ � background
� � � � � � � � � � Lighter � *WMB8&%$#@ � Darker

� � o �3-D images - Can be viewable by people with similar vision in
� � � �both eyes. You try to focus as if you are looking at the back
� � � �of the monitor. The image should pop into focus and create a
� � � �3-D illusion. Other 3-D images are viewed by putting your nose
� � � �on the monitor glass.
� � o �Geometric Article - Text is formed into meaningful shapes.
� � o �Picture Poem - A geometric article that is also a poem.
� � o �Page Making - Text and graphics are intermixed, as in a magazine.
� � o �Picture Story - A story told with accompanying ASCII pictures.
� � o �Color - You can view color ASCII pics, if you have a color screen
� � � �and 'ANSI' color compatible software, or Web access using HTML.
� � o �Color Graphics - You can view color ASCII pics if you have color
� � o �Animation - take a look at � � � � [dead-link snipped]
� � o �Color Animation - take a look at � [dead-link snipped]
� � o �Scroll Animation - This is an animation that is made to be viewed
� � � �by scrolling down. �The image plays out as the screen is redrawn
� � � �with the next 'page' of the image.
� � o �Overstrike Art - It contains carriage returns without line feeds
� � � �at times. The print head can overstrike a line on the paper that
� � � �has already been printed on. �This allows for darkening, and for
� � � �placing different characters at the same place on the paper.
� � � �This kind of art is obviously only printed.

========================================================================
[X1]
-------------------THE ASCII ART FAQ TEN COMMANDMENTS-------------------

� � � � � �\\\\`///
� � � � � �/ �_ �_| � � � � � � � � �1. Thou shalt read the FAQ.
� � � � � (\'('\/') � � � � � � � � �2. Thou shalt not remove the
� � ______/( � �>(__ � � � � � � � � � � initials from any ASCII art.
� �/`- � �\ \_=__| `\ � � � � � � � �3. Thou shalt not claim ownership
� / � � � /__( �_____\ �_____ � � � � � �of someone else's ASCII art.
�/_ \.____ � �," � � "." � � ",__ � �4. Thou shalt read the FAQ.
| � �/ � _\__/_ � � � - � � � / �\ � 5. Thou shalt ask permission
\/ � � �/____ �\ASCII ART FAQ /// � � � �before using someone else's
�) � � / / � \__\ � � - � � � �| � � � � ASCII art.
�'-.__|_/ � �///| I � � �VI � �| � � 6. Thou shalt not sell someone
� � � \_ � � | � � � �| � � � �| � � � � else's ASCII art.
� � � � | � �| � II � � �VII � | � � 7. Thou shalt read the darn FAQ.
� � � � �\ � | � � � �| � � � �| � � 8. Thou shalt not post someone
� � � � �/ � | �III � � �VIII �| � � � � else's ASCII art without making
� � � � �\ � | � � � �| � � � �| � � � � clear that you didn't make it.
� � � � � \_ | � IV � � �IX � �| � � 9. Thou shalt not assume that
� � � � � � \| � � � �| � � � �| � � � � ASCII art isn't art at all.
� � � � � � �| � �V � � �X � � | � �10. Thou shalt read the FAQing FAQ.
� � � � � � �|______b'ger______|

========================================================================
|||| | | | | | �| �| �| � | � �| � � �| � �| � | �| �| �| | | | | ||||
� � � �END �O F � T �H � E � � A � S �C �I �I � A �R T �FAQ
|||| | | | | | �| �| �| � | � �| � � �| � �| � | �| �| �| | | | | ||||
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