Across Lite FAQs

Miscellaneous questions

  1. I have a computer X for which there is no Across Lite. Are there plans for other platforms?
  2. How about a Java program for crosswords?
  3. Are there plans for an ActiveX control to view Across crosswords?
  4. If Across is Lite, are there non-Lite versions?
  5. Can I create puzzles in Across Lite?
  6. Are there any puzzle creation programs compatible with Across Lite?
  7. Where can I get more crosswords on the web for use with Across Lite?
  8. What can we expect from Across Lite in the future?

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Answers

  1. I have a computer X for which there is no Across Lite. Are there plans for other platforms?
    It would depend very much on whether there is a reasonable audience for that platform to make it worthwhile and whether we can get access to such a platform for developing and more important maintaining that version. You may cast your vote for a particular platform by e-mailing to feedback@litsoft.com.
  2. How about a Java program for crosswords?
    We have been experimenting with a prototype but are not willing to release it yet. As an applet, the inability to save a puzzle for future sessions and to print the puzzle severely restricts its usefulness. Moreover, the current crop of interpreters are still too slow to have the minimum standards that we expect from a crossword solving program. Also, despite claims to the contrary, Java is not fully platform independent as yet.
  3. Are there plans for an ActiveX control to view Across crosswords?
    Yes, we are watching the developments very carefully as it seems to hold a lot of promise for tight integration with browsers and can make the crossword section seamless with the rest of the electronic magazine/newspaper. Again, we would prefer to wait until there is a clear trend in that direction before we release anything.
  4. If Across is Lite, are there non-Lite versions?
    Nothing released to the public as yet. We have early prototypes as well as almost finished products competing for development resources with Across Lite which is still being continually refined.
  5. Can I create puzzles in Across Lite?
    If you mean compile puzzles, no. Across Lite is designed for distribution rather than creating crosswords. But if you have a crossword constructed already, you can load a description of it created in an editor or word-processor into Across Lite and save the puzzle in .PUZ format for online distribution. See the online help in the program for instructions.
  6. Are there any puzzle creation programs compatible with Across Lite?
    Yes, we have licensed a library to export a puzzle in Across format to a number of third-party software authors. Go through our online publishing guide for pointers.
  7. Where can I get more crosswords on the web for use with Across Lite?
    The best place to start would be the Across Puzzle Gallery which has pointers to other sites with Across crosswords. Converters available at this site will let you solve many other daily online crosswords using Across Lite.
  8. What can we expect from Across Lite in the future?
    We have our hands full with ideas. In the short term, you will see a timer and scoring feature coming into Across Lite. In the near term, our evolution plans call for an even more tighter integration with browsers and in the long term, internet capabilities (e-mail, ftp, http directly from the program) for smoother electronic delivery, facilities for clues that transcend just static text, etc.

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