An important note about using Mac OS 9 Apple released Mac OS System 9 in late 1999. Shortly thereafter (9 November 1999), ACIUS, the maker of 4th Dimension (Biota's development environment and engine) reported that some 4D users had experienced problems use 4D-based applications under System 9. The following day, I sent a warning to all registered Biota for Mac users, warning of possible problems. As a test, however, we began using BiotaApp 1.6.0 with System 9 intensively in my laboratory. As of 18 March 2000, not a single problem has occurred, not has any other Biota user yet reported any problems under System 9. Given this result, it seems reasonable to proceed cautiously with System 9, at your own risk, if you wish to--but back up often, just in case, and be sure to report any difficulties. (Note: We have not tested Biota4D under 4D Server running under System 9.) None of these issues affects the Windows version, if you also use Biota under Windows. Remember, if you ever need to, any Biota data file created on the Mac can be transferred easily to the Windows version (and vice versa). If you prefer to switch to Windows in view of possible problems with Mac OS 9, please email me and I will arrange a free download of the Windows version of BiotaApp for you. The definitive solution to this problem is Biota Version 2, which is being developed under the current version of 4D (v. 6.5), guaranteed fully compatible with System 9. I hope to release a full beta version in a few months. (The prototype beta is running as a web server at the ALAS site, if you would like a sneak preview.) I am sorry for any difficulties this situation may cause you, and I will do all I can to help resolve them. Robert Colwell