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WebSeeker 
Software Review by Lee J. Mensinger

WebSSeeker logoA relatively new program has developed with the Internet power user in mind but it is eminently useful to useful to everyone. Used at full strength WebSeeker can be awesome.

 WebSeeker is a meta-search engine can simultaneously query more than 20 different search systems such as Alta Vista, Lycos, Webcrawler and Yahoo. 

 Minimum requirements are a 486 SX with Windows95, NT 3.5.1 or higher, 10 MB free HD space, 8 MB RAM, a Web browser such as Netscape Navigator2.0 or higher, Internet Explorer 2.0 or higher, Enhanced Mosaic or any other Spy-Glass SDI standard compliant Web Browser. Of course you also need an Internet connection or all is lost, or at least unfound. 

 Installation is straightforward using two floppy disks and the Windows Start button. For those who acquire the program from the Internet sources the installation will be a bit different and dependent on the method used for downloading it. The usual warning apply and it is highly recommended that all active programs be closed and underlying utilities be switched OFF. This is a good idea when installing many of the newer programs. Some don’t even like Virus Detectors. 

The program works with the normal "more or less" Boolean Logic system using keywords and phrases as a basis to initiate the search. The WebSeeker uses radio style buttons for the AND, OR, and AS A PHRASE connectors keeping the operation fairly easy and intuitive. At your option you may use a SEARCH ENGINE tab to select a subset of the large number of search engines available by clicking FIND NOW or FIND LATER to initiate the search. 

 WebSeeker can create individual queries to take advantage of the strengths of each search engine: 

  • Collect, sort and collate the results of the query. 
  • Remove duplicates. (Unless told not to.) 
  • Display results in an easy to read list window. 
  • Create your choice of a Web page with links to each site pertaining to your topic or a text file of the results and their URL’s. 
  • Search results are written to an HTML page you can view with your browser. 
During the search filters are available to limit selected items in addition to duplication further customizing the search engines to your needs. HTML links can be save for browsing on your hard disk where further refinement can be accomplished on the downloaded material. You can repeat keyword searches at scheduled intervals, unattended if your Web connection does not require you to type your name and password into a dial up window… If the ISP accepts a script and a "remembered" password the standard Windows95 Dial-Up Connection must be used. Each time a query is launched the program will compare the new results with the previously constructed index. You can filter the results to review old search information, view only the changed information or view a combination of the old and the new results. 

 WebSeeker is a fast, efficient convenient program that places a "FIND on the internet" button on the Windows 95 Find options on the START menu. Of course you can also run searches by opening the application. 

On line HELP is included in the program, but oh happy days, a very detailed, user friendly, 122 page user manual is included with the "store bought" commercial version. The manual is well written and indexed. It also includes a really useful addition seldom seen in most manuals. In this day and age when many software companies have eliminated the written word it is really a delight to find a manual that not only is well written but it also includes, periodically a set of notes on the bottom left side of the page which lists reference pages to further assist in understanding the instructions on the present page. Now, that is thoughtful and welcome! 

 I would like to make a comment that refers to any program similar to WebSeeker. It advised that considerable thought be given to your selection of keywords as well as the use of AND, OR, and AS A PHRASE connectors. You may get what you asked for and that can be considerably different than what you thought you requested. A simple request for apples bananas will get you apples or bananas when what you wanted was apples AND bananas which is decidedly different. Boolean Logic will allow you to make as many Booboos as possible with little resistance and undesirable results are enevitable. 

 A simple request typhoon Japan Okinawa Guam resulted in more than 15000 selections almost immediately. I did this on purpose to see the results. I was actually looking for information on typhoon Rita in 1957. Your success in finding that which you seek will be realized much more quickly if you do not over do the keyword routines. The more you ask for the more you will get and the list can become virtually useless due to its immense size. 

 I highly recommend WebSeeker to those who can use it. The program is available at COMPUSA with a listed price of $49.99. Alamo PC members know what to do. 

 Help is available from FOREFRONT DIRECT at 1-800-653-493, FAX at 1-813-531-0200, Internet, http://www.ffg.com