Alt.Binz forum
Alt.Binz (English) => General talk => Topic started by: andreasfc on August 30, 2007, 02:07:49 am
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Hello Rdl, are we assuming that when there are enough persons who are donating you are going to develop altbinz further, so new releases will be released once in a while?
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You will probably get more donations (from me included) if you make the donation thing into something most people can understand.
German or whatever language that form is in is not my strong side... and I assume a lot of others have the same problem.
EDIT: I found a way around that... I replaced the /de/ with /en/ in the URL and I got it in English.
Edit 2: And yay for continued development of AltBinz. It would have been sad for such a great program to die.
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German or whatever language that form is in is not my strong side... and I assume a lot of others have the same problem.
You'll also see it in your preferred language once you log in to PayPal - the button for that is fairly easy to recognise. This should only be a tempoarary thing, though, I think. Only day 1 of donations, after all.
In case anyone's wondering, it worked fine for me and others. Happy donating. :)
-Hecks
P.S. Yay indeed!
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I think I fixed it now so it defaults to English. If anyone can confirm
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I have checked and it looks ok, it is now default on United States
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RDL, I'd love to donate to the cause, but all I get by clicking the Paypal Donate button is this page - http://www.celebritypwn.com/altbinz/paypal.html . Viewing your source, I can't find a link to Paypal itself - has anyone managed to donate yet?
My apologies - I clicked the second Donate link and it brought me directly to Paypal. In for 15 Euro. Go altbinz!
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The DONATE button should go on the www.altbinz.com frontpage once its ready for the public IMO. People in general are too lazy to visit forums.
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The DONATE button should go on the www.altbinz.com frontpage once its ready for the public IMO. People in general are too lazy to visit forums.
yeah i agree...get it on the front page :D
this is awesome news btw...thanks Rdl :twisted:
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I agree, but only Scotty can do that and he's not around atm. So as soon as he pops up, everything will be done properly. New public version with donate button, new forum section available only to contributors with daily builds...
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Do you know when new builds are being released again? Or are you going to explain everything on how it goed further in a new forum posting about the future of altbinz?
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if this link was up before you announced the death of altbinz, i would of been the first to click on it.. but forgive me for being a bit hesitant now. ill await your full explanation and possible altbinz roadmap before giving a big amount:)
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if this link was up before you announced the death of altbinz, i would of been the first to click on it.. but forgive me for being a bit hesitant now. ill await your full explanation and possible altbinz roadmap before giving a big amount:)
No roadmap, I'll implement things that are requested. New version will be out every day or two. PayPal link is not on the front page cause we're waiting for Scotty to appear. Currently working on a streaming rars to vlc player as requested.
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if this link was up before you announced the death of altbinz, i would of been the first to click on it.. but forgive me for being a bit hesitant now. ill await your full explanation and possible altbinz roadmap before giving a big amount:)
No roadmap, I'll implement things that are requested. New version will be out every day or two. PayPal link is not on the front page cause we're waiting for Scotty to appear. Currently working on a streaming rars to vlc player as requested.
ah k, is already a news program that does that - http://www.nzbplayer.com/
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if this link was up before you announced the death of altbinz, i would of been the first to click on it.. but forgive me for being a bit hesitant now. ill await your full explanation and possible altbinz roadmap before giving a big amount:)
No roadmap, I'll implement things that are requested. New version will be out every day or two. PayPal link is not on the front page cause we're waiting for Scotty to appear. Currently working on a streaming rars to vlc player as requested.
Do you know when development is going to continue, because I think when there is something new people are willing to donate, now they don't know what to expect.
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if this link was up before you announced the death of altbinz, i would of been the first to click on it.. but forgive me for being a bit hesitant now. ill await your full explanation and possible altbinz roadmap before giving a big amount:)
No roadmap, I'll implement things that are requested. New version will be out every day or two. PayPal link is not on the front page cause we're waiting for Scotty to appear. Currently working on a streaming rars to vlc player as requested.
ah k, is already a news program that does that - http://www.nzbplayer.com/
I'm aware of it. No reason not to implemented here also.
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if this link was up before you announced the death of altbinz, i would of been the first to click on it.. but forgive me for being a bit hesitant now. ill await your full explanation and possible altbinz roadmap before giving a big amount:)
No roadmap, I'll implement things that are requested. New version will be out every day or two. PayPal link is not on the front page cause we're waiting for Scotty to appear. Currently working on a streaming rars to vlc player as requested.
Do you know when development is going to continue, because I think when there is something new people are willing to donate, now they don't know what to expect.
I already told what to expect. New version every day or two with new features. Development is continued, as I explained I'm currently working on implementing "playing NZB files" while they're downloading.
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I find that a most odd feature, like a wordprocessor with a high score table.
But carry on *g*
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I find that a most odd feature, like a wordprocessor with a high score table.
But carry on *g*
I have no doubt you find most of the things in alt.binz odd, so please either be more constructive in the future or move on. With all those odd things I don't know why do you still use alt.binz?
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Hey Rdl, greate you'r back :)
I would like too help you and translate Altbinz to german if you provide a text file to translate.
So more german users like me would use the programm and donate of course.
I am going to donate in a few days myself. I have to create a paypal account first ;)
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Hey Rdl, greate you'r back :)
I would like too help you and translate Altbinz to german if you provide a text file to translate.
Same for the Dutch language
Hard labor now Rdl.. :D
Gompy :roll:
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I tried that nzbplayer and it is a great idea, but it is not as configurable as alt.binz. I like alt.binz's features and how it handles things better. And if Rdl is going to include that in his program, then I am all for that too.
Will make a great program better.
As for donations, trying to figure out the conversion factor so I can get you the donation I want to give. But like others will probably make a few over time. It is just worth it to me.
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I was experiencing a dilemma lately, trying to decide which newsreader to use. This sounds very interesting. Seems a lot of you highly recommend this one. Should I download the current version, or will a new, updated version be available shortly? I suppose a donation is expected... :D
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Seems like a great development. Thanks Rdl.
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Sorry, I'm a little dense, is $30 what you want for daily builds etc?
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I don't want anything. Donations! If the program is worth to you, give whatever you think is appropriate/you're able/you're willing to give.
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I was experiencing a dilemma lately, trying to decide which newsreader to use. This sounds very interesting. Seems a lot of you highly recommend this one. Should I download the current version, or will a new, updated version be available shortly? I suppose a donation is expected... :D
Elf, by all means download this program. The current version is working fine for me and I am really happy I found alt.binz.
And now that Rdl is starting back up with the development, it will make it even better. You can't go wrong with the way it is right now. And as Rdl said, a donation is just that, a DONATION. If you like the program, by all means donate, but at least try it before you donate. That way if you don't like it (which is impossible :twisted: ), you are not out anything. But if you do like it, you can contribute to the continued progress/development of Alt.Binz.
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I just donated to the cause Rdl, I think you've deserved it. Been using Alt.Binz for many months now (under Windows, Linux, ánd OS X), and it works like a charm with all platforms (just a minor bug under OS X, which I'll report).
Keep up the good work!
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Just to say thnx and keep up good work.
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I have made a little donation to encourage the staff and keep this great application alive and freeware for a long time ! :wink:
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Hey Rdl, I love your program and I'd like to donate, but I don't use (and don't want to use) PayPal. Is there any other way to donate?
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Hey Rdl, I love your program and I'd like to donate, but I don't use (and don't want to use) PayPal. Is there any other way to donate?
Unfortunately - no.
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Made a little donation, you have earned... :wink:
Normally I don't pay for software I try to use freeware as much I can, and I like the way you keep it free for so long, respect.
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Made a little donation, you have earned... :wink:
Normally I don't pay for software I try to use freeware as much I can, and I like the way you keep it free for so long, respect.
Thank you! As soon as eCheck clears out you'll be added to list.
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I am happy to have donated a litlle for a good tool.
I was using Usenet Explorer and AutoUnpack before. But since I start using Alt.binz I hardly use these tools anymore.
Keep up the good work!!
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Made a first donation just now... more may follow.
I used to pay for NewsLeecher the last two years (I especially like their SuperSearch, for which I would still pay, even tho I prefer Alt.Binz for general downloading).
Anyway, great tool, written in a great language! :wink:
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new features being added are awesome!
3rd small donation made last nite, keep up the great work rdl!
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Shoot. I just donated but didn't put my username in... Can I tell you my email address? Or give any other info?
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Thanks for the add
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Hey Rdl, I love your program and I'd like to donate, but I don't use (and don't want to use) PayPal. Is there any other way to donate?
Unfortunately - no.
Well I created an account after all. Glad to have donated, this program is sure worth it!
Can't wait to try out the new version (I'm at my girlfriends house right now :roll:).
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Hey Rdl, I love your program and I'd like to donate, but I don't use (and don't want to use) PayPal. Is there any other way to donate?
Unfortunately - no.
Well I created an account after all. Glad to have donated, this program is sure worth it!
Can't wait to try out the new version (I'm at my girlfriends house right now :roll:).
Take your time. It wont go anywhere :) I know I wouldn't rush out of girlfriends house just to try some program ;)
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Hey Rdl, I love your program and I'd like to donate, but I don't use (and don't want to use) PayPal. Is there any other way to donate?
Unfortunately - no.
Well I created an account after all. Glad to have donated, this program is sure worth it!
Can't wait to try out the new version (I'm at my girlfriends house right now :roll:).
Take your time. It wont go anywhere :) I know I wouldn't rush out of girlfriends house just to try some program ;)
Haha, don't worry. If I was that nerdy, I wouldn't have a girlfriend in the first place (at least according to the cliché :wink:).
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I just donated some for your great program and i must agree with most people here i like the way you keep it free!
No messing around with ads or whatever.
Keep up the good work
Pimmetje
PS If you would like a other mirror for you great software just send me a PM
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Just donated, thank you for a great program :)
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I donated on the 3rd December, but haven't got access to the latest versions. I've also PMd rdl but no reply. ??? Do I need to do something else to get access?
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You should be able to access the Daily builds forum by now, as you've been promoted to Contributor already. Dunno whether it was done just now or that you'd missed noticing the forum all the time ??? :o
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Oh thanks! Being new to the forums I didn't notice that.
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I have donated 2 times and it was refunded both times . Whats the deal with that ?? The first was 2 euro , second was 5 euro .
I didn't put my forum user name the first time but I did the second time .
Bigdaddy51200
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I have donated 2 times and it was refunded both times . Whats the deal with that ?? The first was 2 euro , second was 5 euro .
I didn't put my forum user name the first time but I did the second time .
Bigdaddy51200
You had your chance first time. Continue using 0.25.0 or find yourself another program.
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well looks to me if you are want a minimal donation then you specify what you want .
Hell I was just trying to help out a little since I liked the program . I would think you would welcome any donation.
If thats the way you want to be then I keep my money .
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well looks to me if you are want a minimal donation then you specify what you want .
Hell I was just trying to help out a little since I liked the program . I would think you would welcome any donation.
If thats the way you want to be then I keep my money .
And the lifetime free upgrades was just, what, a side-benefit of your altruistic gesture? It's only those trying to donate 1 or 2 euro that just *don't get it*, and everyone in this community is better off without them, IMHO.
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Ok, I've used alt.binz now and then (I don't use usenet much) for a while. Today I thought about donating a small amount, like 2 euro. I had two motivations for that I guess. I wanted to testdrive some never version since 0.25 seems to have some (very small) issues. Like, when I click "download" to go to the download folder, altbinz opens an explorer window with the tree view visible to the left, which I'd prefer if it didn't. That kind of very small issues. The second motivation was that I like the app as far as it (and my use of it) goes, and 2 euro seemed like a relevant amount for showing some support.
But then I read the posts above, and that of course made me hesitant about the planned donation. :-\ So please let me know what you'd consider to be a donation reasonable enough to be able to test some later build. Talk about a "life-time of updates" isn't very relevant for me since I doubt this program, or usenet even, will be around in 5-10 years time and, as I said, I don't use it much and so will not be a user hunting down nightly builds. But again, give some indication to what you consider sufficient and I'll make up my mind if that amount is reasonable for my level of usage.
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1) There is no 'test-drive' scheme for Alt.Binz - unless you count the free 0.25.0 version, that is. Using that for a while should give you more than enough indication of how much Alt.Binz is worth to you.
2) Do you really need it explained that 2 euro is a completely pathetic amount? Less than the price of a burger? Consider how much that will actually be after Paypal fees are deducted.
3) Newsleecher is $30 per year. Newsbin Pro is $35. A single user license for WinRAR is 29.95 euro = $43 at current exchange rate. Perhaps those put things into perspective a bit for you?
4) Tot up all of your recent downloads with Alt.Binz. Now cost them all at retail prices. Ponder the total amount.
Since it sounds like you don't really care about supporting the future development of the program, and don't have any major feature requests to make (which you'd be entitled to post if you donated), I suggest you stick with 0.25.0 and continue to enjoy all of Rdl's hard work for free.
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I know there are a lot of posts on this subject and I do believe if everyone would read one of the first ones from RDL, you will see how much to donate. Basically he says to donate what the program, Alt.Binz, is WORTH to YOU. If you use that as a guide, I don't think you will have any problems donating.
Like Hecks mentioned, and I have used a lot of different Usenet Readers. My first one was Agent and I paid full price for that one. Then I found Newsbin Pro and paid full price for that one. Newsbin Pro was my main Usenet program for a long time. Got Grabit and Newsleecher, full price for those. But I kept coming back to Newsbin Pro as it was easy to use and did everything (I thought) I wanted it to.
About 6 months ago someone mentioned Alt.Binz on the NewzBin site and I did a Google for it. This was about the time that RDL posted his "The Future of Alt.Binz" message and I thought for sure that was the end of the best Usenet Program I had found. When RDL started the Donation for Alt.Binz, I was eager to donate at least what I had paid for all the others I had purchased, as it was WORTH it to ME.
And ever since then, Alt.Binz has done nothing but get better. I am not too savvy on a lot of the other things that people have requested, but it helps me in the long run by doing things I would have never thought of.
So, I guess all I am trying to say is What is Alt.Binz WORTH to you? If you say 1 to 2€, then you are doing nothing to RDL but slap him in the face. If you say 20 to 30€, then I would say that is a great start to keep the program and RDL AND the others that help out, into continuing to developing the program.
And speaking of Usenet, it was around many, many years before P2P, Torrents, and everything else that tries to share files. And with all the Usenet servers adding SSL to the servers, I really believe it will be around a lot longer than most people believe.
Just my 2€ ;D
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Hi Hecks and freeop, thanks for the feedback. I get the message though I disagree with some of it and some of the tone. Let me just emphasize that my software and newsreader needs are modest. The open source Pan is what I used previously and might go back to in the future. So that's the relevant frame of reference in my case rather than 30-40$ applications. I sometimes donate to developers, but very seldom more than a small amount but rather small amounts to different developers. I have about 15 other small applications installed right now that I use a lot more than alt.binz and have not yet donated to. So from that perspective $30 for alt.binz is not happening ATM, sorry. If such amounts are minimum then a fixed and clearly stated price on the startpage would be less confusing I think. So for the time being I'll gratefully stick to 0.25. But you never know, maybe my need for it grows in the future. In that case, I'll be back and pay some larger amount. Cheers.
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Hi Hecks and freeop, thanks for the feedback. I get the message though I disagree with some of it and some of the tone. Let me just emphasize that my software and newsreader needs are modest. The open source Pan is what I used previously and might go back to in the future. So that's the relevant frame of reference in my case rather than 30-40$ applications. I sometimes donate to developers, but very seldom more than a small amount but rather small amounts to different developers. I have about 15 other small applications installed right now that I use a lot more than alt.binz and have not yet donated to. So from that perspective $30 for alt.binz is not happening ATM, sorry. If such amounts are minimum then a fixed and clearly stated price on the startpage would be less confusing I think. So for the time being I'll gratefully stick to 0.25. But you never know, maybe my need for it grows in the future. In that case, I'll be back and pay some larger amount. Cheers.
I completely understand what you are saying, kopasa. If you don't use it that much then there is no need to go any further than version 0.25, but I guess my point was that, me personally, I use alt.binz at least 90% of the time I am on the computer. So to me, it is worth the contribution I make.
Now RDL will say, at least I think he will say, that you only need to contribute what the program is worth to you. If you only use it a little, then a little contribution is fine. If you use it a lot, like me, a larger contribution is in order.
But as you have pointed out in your previous post, reading through the posts, 1 to 2 € would never be seen by RDL. It would be completely eaten up by the fees by PayPal.
I am not trying to put an amount to contribute for each other person. And I don't think RDL has any set amount to contribute. I am sure he just wants everyone to give what they would spend on a program that they would use more than just a few times a month.
I am going to shut up here. And I don't want to put words in other people's mouths. I just know for me, alt.binz is the only program I will use for Usenet, hands down.
I don't know anyone personally here, so I can't speak for anyone. Crud, I am in Texas and I believe most of the users are from Europe and the Netherlands. But I don't know that for sure. :) I just like the program and wished everyone would at least try it.
Good luck to you, kopasa...
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For the record: I never stated that $30 was the minimum. For a start, there *isn't* a minimum, and we're not talking about the 'price' of a license here but donations to support the program. If a minimum were specified for access to new versions, then that would become the de facto 'price', with all of the consequences that would follow from that.
It's the developer's (Rdl's) right not to accept donations if he wishes. This is a developer-contributor relationship rather than a seller-buyer one, after all. And as Rdl stated, it's only the 1% of donators who have problems with this, the other 99% understand the nature of the transaction clearly enough.
Really after reading many comments like these I've come to the conclusion that those trying to donate 1 or 2 euro (i.e. nothing) are just never going to understand, and there's just no point wasting any more time on them. I'm past caring whether anyone's feelings are hurt by this. And I'm just speaking here as an ordinary user like everyone else.
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Greetings.
I donated what I could afford. (Damn South African Rand <-> Euro exchange rate is a b$%@*) How will I know if my donation has been accepted or declined. ???
Rdl, irrespective of if my donation is accepted or declined; Thanks for all the hard work you put into this piece of software.
Cheerz
Voodoo ;)
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If it gets accepted, you'll be added to the contributors group, after which you'll automatically receive an email stating so. If it gets declined, you'll get the donation refunded through paypal
:)
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@Mystic2010 , thanks for the reply. ;D
I see I have now been added to the contributors group. Thanks for the quick update Rdl. Much appreciated.
Cheerz
Dave
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@Mystic2010 , thanks for the reply. ;D
I see I have now been added to the contributors group. Thanks for the quick update Rdl. Much appreciated.
Cheerz
Dave
Best investment you will ever make ;D
Grats on the contribution and welcome to the best Usenet program on the net!!!
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Hi,my name is Nikola,and I am from Serbia. I want to donate AltBinz,but when I try it on PayPal site, I find that my country(Serbia) is not listed as Pay Pal customer. Some other way to donate? Moneybookers? or some other way? Best regards, Nikola!
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Hi,my name is Nikola,and I am from Serbia. I want to donate AltBinz,but when I try it on PayPal site, I find that my country(Serbia) is not listed as Pay Pal customer. Some other way to donate? Moneybookers? or some other way? Best regards, Nikola!
No Paypal in Serbia yet, unfortunately. But since the developer Rdl is also Serbian, I'm sure he'll be able to arrange something with you. Maybe send him a pm? :)
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is it possible to make a donation by sending the money to you email? I know you have provided a donation link BUT I am wary of such method. I've heard to many horror stories of people losing money. I am not saying you are a crook BUT I do not know who are you.
If yes, please pm me your email :)
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is it possible to make a donation by sending the money to you email? I know you have provided a donation link BUT I am wary of such method. I've heard to many horror stories of people losing money. I am not saying you are a crook BUT I do not know who are you.
If yes, please pm me your email :)
Jarthel,
First off I don't think RDL does anything but PayPal. But will let him answer that one himself.
As for Paypal, I have been with them for almost 10 years and never had anything but excellent luck with them. I have never lost any money and if there has been any kind of problems I have always gotten a response with in hours of submitting it.
I have all my bank and credit cards accessable via PayPal and pay many many online merchants using PayPal. Yes there are horror stories with PayPal, but that is because users are not paying attention to what they are doing. If you read the few help files when you join PayPal, you should not have any problems. It is safe and they even will get your money back, up to $2000.
Just wanted to let you know about the Success Stories from PayPal...
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Just wanted to let you know about the Success Stories from PayPal...
I think his problem is not PayPal. He is not 100% sure about donating. He doesn't "trust" rdl...yet. Bad word but you know what i mean.
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If this were something to worry about, the forum would be full of reports. It's not.
On the other hand, if you want to make a personal donation to my paypal account in return for guaranteed +50% operating speed for your PC, please feel free (c/o the Nigerian goverrnment).
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It is possible to send money to an email using Paypal. :) so if RDL can provide his email, I can send him a donation using paypal.
I am just wary because the paypal account is connected to where the bank gets our mortgage. if something happens to it, we're screwed. :(
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It is possible to send money to an email using Paypal. :) so if RDL can provide his email, I can send him a donation using paypal.
I am just wary because the paypal account is connected to where the bank gets our mortgage. if something happens to it, we're screwed. :(
You are to one who sends money to a person, in this case rdl/alt binz. Without any contracts/agreements it is, as far as i know, not possible to withdraw money from other accounts. Thus, if you get problems with your bank, you are the one who made a mistake. :P
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It is possible to send money to an email using Paypal. :) so if RDL can provide his email, I can send him a donation using paypal.
I am just wary because the paypal account is connected to where the bank gets our mortgage. if something happens to it, we're screwed. :(
If you have any doubts about using the link from the program or from the first post of this thread my suggestion is, as always, don't donate.
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It is possible to send money to an email using Paypal. :) so if RDL can provide his email, I can send him a donation using paypal.
I am just wary because the paypal account is connected to where the bank gets our mortgage. if something happens to it, we're screwed. :(
why not use a different bank account... if you don't have one open one. that would be wise anyways if you want 2 use paypal an be sure the morgage is not in danger...
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It is possible to send money to an email using Paypal. :) so if RDL can provide his email, I can send him a donation using paypal.
I am just wary because the paypal account is connected to where the bank gets our mortgage. if something happens to it, we're screwed. :(
If you have any doubts about using the link from the program or from the first post of this thread my suggestion is, as always, don't donate.
thanks everyone for the reply. it seems the big guy has spoken :)
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Last week I clicked the donate button and via paypal I tried to donate 2e, approx 3 US dollars. The amount was refunded. I thought an error occurred so I tired to donate again, this time 3e or approx 5 US dollars. This amount was refunded. Both of these times I used a VISA card. I thought maybe there had been a problem with VISA, so I tried to donate with paypal using my checking account. That too was refunded with a note from an administrator saying [edited].
So altbinz has a minimum donation they will accept but it isn't posted anywhere that I could find. Later I did see where the donation link asked that you donate what you think altbinz is worth, and it is worth more than I donated. Yes I did want the most current version of altbinz that comes with a donation yet I thought every bit of cash helped. If it doesn't then a better way of telling people is advised. I am grateful to have a good program like altbinz and I wanted to donate.
[Edit: please don't post private communications here, you can pm Rdl if you have more questions that need answering. -Hecks]
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What he meant with "The only one you support with 2e donation is Paypal" is that Paypal asks for transaction costs. With small donations like 2e, this would 'vanish' to Paypal so to speak.
If you would be donating to 'just support the developer', I can see where you would want to give just 3e for example.
However, you state that you want to download the latest version with your donation.
The thing is, the donation has been set up in a way that you get to receive all future lifetime updates, by just doing one donation. Is a donation of 3e really what you're prepared to donate for lifetime updates?
Also, there is no explicit minimum donation amount. Just think of what you're prepared to donate for a program you will use almost (if not every day) every day. This way some can choose to give more than others. But do keep it a realistic amount.
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Heres my viewpoint on the subject. No i havent contributed yet (but by the end of the week expect a donation :P) but being a broke college student I do understand where/how some of these people are thinking. I hope Rdl doesnt take offense to people who donate 2e, but I do understand how it can be aggravating as a software developer. I think when it comes to donations people generally are just used to donating in small amounts thinking it all adds up. People dont even think about paypal fees they just think that they like the software so donate 2e/$4 and get updates as a plus. Also many people dont even think about the fact that there is mainly one developer who works on this program and many dont understand the work and time that is involved with developing programs. I for one will scrounge more money then $4 dollars, but by no means could I afford paying 20e/$40 dollars for a software program right now (although thats what this program is worth).
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There might be a better way of dealing with donations, but look at it this way: it's highly unlikely that any new system would give lifetime access to future versions, as well as support & ability to make new feature requests, for the price of a cup of coffee, which is what some people in this thread seem to have been expecting. As it is, a lot of people have been getting access for far less than what the proggy is really worth, at the end of the day. I think Rdl has been really rather generous in this respect, when he could easily have set a price of $30+, which is typically what you'll find elsewhere (Newsbin & Newsleecher spring to mind).
Remember also that it's only those who've tried to donate the *absolute* minimum and have spammed Rdl with incremental attempts who've been given the cold shoulder. 700+ contributors so far have understood the nature of the transaction well enough. I don't think this thread is representative of the majority feeling - but then again, maybe it is.
:)
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Very true hecks. Dont forget though many people (including me) dont actually pay for the newsreader software. They find not so legitimate means of using thoughs programs. Rdl though has the most generous license terms out of any of the readers which is one of the major reasons I want to support him.
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This system is rather cryptic.
The main screen appears to offer a stable version to the public and developmental versions to those who like beta testing.
After digging further it appears later versions are stable but only available to paying customers.
So I donate a typical amount for a shareware program, unsure if I'm paying to be a beta tester or get a better stable program.
Read some more & suspect the author may well take offence if my "donation" doesn't meet his expectation.
Sorry if this sounds a bit negative but IMO the system could be improved
If the builds after the public release are stable and suitable for paying customers then say so.
If you need a pay a minimum to access the full features (current stable version), then just say so rather than expecting everyone to guess.
As for life time updates
I have no intention of committing to using Altbinz for life, similarly I don't mind paying more if it continues to deliver. Have you considered giving a limited time access if donations are "unacceptable"?
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It's not shareware - at most, donationware. There are no 'customers' of the proggy, only 'contributors', i.e. supporters of future developement. It's a different kind of transaction. By donating you join this community, and among other things are able to make new feature requests. This is explained on the front page. There are no 'stable' and 'beta' versions of Alt.Binz, just new releases (it's completely different from Newsleecher in that respect). The version history may be found here:
https://www.altbinz.net/index.php?page=vhistory
Remember that Newsleecher charges $30 per year for access to beta versions. To repeat what's been said many times before in this thread: the only people who've had trouble with the donations are the ones who've tried to donate the absolute minimum, i.e. pull a fast one. 700+ contributors so far and counting have not had a problem = 99.9% of donators.
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It's not shareware - at most, donationware. There are no 'customers' of the proggy, only 'contributors', i.e. supporters of future development. It's a different kind of transaction. By donating you join this community, and among other things are able to make new feature requests. This is explained on the front page. There are no 'stable' and 'beta' versions of Alt.Binz, just new releases (it's completely different from Newsleecher in that respect).The version history may be found here:
The explanation is not actually as clear as you imagine.
You see I'm just looking for a program which works smoothly & reliably.
As such I have no interest in daily builds. The version history list a variety of bug fixes & feature enhancements without clear indication of software stability, that is unless you are trying to imply all of altbinz daily builds are bug free :)
Similarly I don't know why you imaging I would want to pay to offer improvement suggestions. So you are offering only access to the current version for a price you refuse to disclose.
For those trying to guess what Altbinz management consider a fair price, it appears 10 euro is too low (I just got a refund)
Now I wonder what my next guess should be considering everyone apparently gets only 2 guesses.
Remember that Newsleecher charges $30 per year for access to beta versions. To repeat what's been said many times before in this thread: the only people who've had trouble with the donations are the ones who've tried to donate the absolute minimum, i.e. pull a fast one. 700+ contributors so far and counting have not had a problem = 99.9% of donators.
I don't really see the relevance of all the Newsleecher comparisons, but as you insist. Newsleecher isn't run by on programmer who is looking at dropping support for the product, so there 1 year of upgrades could well be more valuable than a lifetime of a dead product :) The Newsleecher reader is actually $US20 https://newsleecher.com/?id=buy
If you mean, the minimum "donation" is $US30, then why not say it.
Accusing your customers of trying to "pull a fast one", because not all can read your mind is hardly a way to build a profitable business.
700 x $30 = $21K over the first 6 months. Given you are offering "lifetime" support, you are going to need to do much better than that for this project to support even one programmer.
Enough of my rant.
What I have been trying to say is your marketing techniques is not customer friendly.
Wether you listen or not is your decision.
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For those trying to guess what Altbinz management consider a fair price, it appears 10 euro is too low (I just got a refund)
Now I wonder what my next guess should be considering everyone apparently gets only 2 guesses.
You got a refund with a note saying
Next time be sure before pressing the button
EOD, find yourself another program
So I donate a typical amount for a shareware program, unsure if I'm paying to be a beta tester or get a better stable program.
Read some more & suspect the author may well take offence if my "donation" doesn't meet his expectation.
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@ patch
There is no Alt.Binz 'management'. There is no Alt.Binz 'price'. There is no minumum donation of $30. There is no Alt.Binz 'customer'. There is no Alt.Binz 'business'. There are no Alt.Binz 'betas', as Alt.Binz doesn't have a 'stable' vs 'beta' development model (in common with much other software). Becoming a contributor gives you the right to REQUEST feature additions, hence 'Request Forum' rather than 'Suggestion Forum'. You really have got this completely the wrong way around. There is no spoon. There is only the developer Rdl and all the contributors here who support the development of the proggy, which you would know if you'd been around here a little longer.
I don't understand why anyone who's so unhappy with what's on offer would bother, frankly. Certainly I don't understand why you would think anyone here wants to read such hectoring posts as yours. Really, what's the point, exactly?
There are plenty of alternatives to donating, not the least of which is the fully functional FREE version (0.25.0) which you can continue to enjoy indefinately. Maybe you'll even be able to bring yourself to thank the developer in the future at some point for that gift.
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I read your "please donate any amount"-form and still got a refund for my 5 euros. Since i had a problem with auto unrar i figured 5 euros was a fair amount, i certainly wanted to know if the problem was solved in version 27.2 before giving away more. Quite ironic that a leecher programmer thinks he is in a position to say no to money [Removed] . Btw, autounrar now works for me again. I really dont care why i got a refund, bottom line is, im 5 euro richer and using altbinz happily. Thanks rdl. You can send me a very polite msg if you want some euros.
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I read your "please donate any amount"-form and still got a refund for my 5 euros. Since i had a problem with auto unrar i figured 5 euros was a fair amount, i certainly wanted to know if the problem was solved in version 27.2 before giving away more. Quite ironic that a leecher programmer thinks he is in a position to say no to money [Removed] . Btw, autounrar now works for me again. I really dont care why i got a refund, bottom line is, im 5 euro richer and using altbinz happily. Thanks rdl. You can send me a very polite msg if you want some euros.
You're richer... ROFL
This time next year you'll be a millioner
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So how much is the minimum?
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So how much is the minimum?
why keep people asking that?
Donate what Alt.Binz is worth to you and don't forget Paypal takes fees
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.... is a completely pathetic amount? Less than the price of a burger? Consider how much that will actually be after Paypal fees are deducted.
There is 2 problems with this logic
1) How is a customer expected to know what deal rdl has with Paypal is no pricing information is given.
2) How much do you really think people would "donate" for a burger if the shop owner chose not to specify a price? A lot less than then a commercially viable price. We live in a capitalistic world. Most will pay no more than they need to for any item. Don't blame your customers for the world they live in.
The other issue I have difficulty with is why the antagonism to people trying to be customers. They want to give you money. Why take offence if they do not know how much you expect?
Alt.Binz is a good product but unless a clearer method is established to pay for it, I can't see it achieving financial viability.
700+ contributors so far and counting
You speak as if 700+ contributors is a successful marketing program. Just out of interest, how does that compare with the number of program downloads.
IMO if you want to make Altbinz viable you need 10,000 to 100,000 paying $10 a year not 700 paying $30 once off.
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There are no Alt.Binz 'customers' and Alt.Binz does not have a 'price'. Your argument therefore falls down at the first hurdle, so I won't bother commenting on the rest. Everything that can be said has already been said in this thread.
But just to repeat: the only ones who have been refused are the tiny minority (vs 900 now) who have tried to donate 1 or 2 euro. It's a shame you don't have access to the Daily Builds forum, where there are dozens and dozens of posts from happy contributors thanking the developer Rdl, who is of course the only one who knows the precise amounts being donated, and is the ony one who can can judge whether his chosen system of donations is financially 'viable' for him.
IMO if you want to make Altbinz viable you need 10,000 to 100,000 paying $10 a year not 700 paying $30 once off.
You are living in a dream world.
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Hey Hecks!!!
(http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/7834/thaaprw8.gif) (http://imageshack.us)
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why keep people asking that?
So they can not get refunded, because they can not read minds. As someone pointed out the typical shareware donation is $5, but that's apparently way too low here. That's pretty problematic considering theres no indication of what the minimum price is, and that what you donate is taking as a one time only donation which isn't indicated either. I'm sure this won't change anything, just offering my experience. I've never seen anything like this, and I run a site that lives off donations as well. I don't specify and amount and give anyone who donates what I give everyone else. If someone donates $5 guess what, in a few months they'll probably donate more. No reason to turn that down.
It would make a heck of a lot more sense to actually stop calling this donations and set prices. $5 gets you a month on the contributors forum, $25 a year, $60 lifetime or something like that.
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I am sorry, but I have to make a comment to Luke. And I am not trying to flame or say anything against what you have already said. ;D
But I started using Alt.Binz when it was completely free and updates were also free. But then the program hit a stopping point and RDL made a statement that the development of Alt.Binz was going to stop. I was very disappointed as I had only been using the program for about 3 or 4 months. I really didn't want to see this great program go away.
RDL then made a post that he was going to continue to develop the program as long as there were enough support from the contributors. I jumped on the band wagon as fast as I could. And in the initial stages, RDL made the comment to "Contribute what you feel the program is worth to you". Well I had "Donated" money to Agent, NewsLeecher Pro, Newsbin Pro and a few others, but hands down Alt.Binz was a much better program, I felt, than all the others.
So my own idea of a "Fair" contribution was around 25 Euros (around ~$38 US). As I had spent about the same amount for those other programs. And I have no regrets for doing so and I have contributed a second time. Will probably contribute again. But that is just me.
As for the Refunding of others, it has been mentioned over and over that PayPal charges fees to accept currency from other countries. If you contribute $5 US (~3.18 Euro) then PayPal will eat that up in a heart beat. RDL gets nothing.
Ok maybe I shouldn't put a figure in the posts, but all that I have said is MY idea and not anyone else. So if I was to do it over, I don't think I would change a thing. And I hope this will help others in making a choice on what is a "Fair" Contribution.
Just my 2 cents (0.01 Euro) ::)
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As a new member, I hope you guys can tolerate me making a comment on the 'contributions' system here.
First of all, I'd like to thank Rdl for such a great program, and to thank him for the excellent free version. I am seriously thinking of contributing as I believe Rdl deserves the support and I'm interested in the new features implemented in the latest builds.
I'm a regular donor to several websites, even when contributions don't give me any particular benefits, or when extra donations don't confer anything additional. I continue to support these services because I continue to find them useful and the provider appears to be grateful for my continued support, which is what has compelled me to comment here.
Sometimes I have only been able to make small donations, but have never had a donation refunded on the basis that it wasn't enough. I understand that PayPal takes a cut of donations, which scales especially badly as the donations get lower, so I can certainly understand why there should be a minimum donation level but there are 2 things I don't understand:
- why can't the potential donor be made aware what kind of cut PayPal are going to take from their donation, so that the potential contributor can make an informed decision, rather than a guess?
- why does Rdl (and others) treat people asking these kind of questions with such obvious contempt
These are potential sources of (potentially repeat) income, so I don't undertstand why they are being alienated by Rdl and other members of the community here. If €10 isn't enough (as one attempted contributor reports), then what is? €15? €20?
It's too much of a grey area and I believe could be very off-putting to people who want to make a contribution and can't afford a very large one.
People are asking these questions because they love the program, want to be part of the contributor community and are just seeking a little clarity. Surely that's not too much to ask?
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But just to repeat: the only ones who have been refused are the tiny minority (vs 900 now) who have tried to donate 1 or 2 euro.
This thread is just going round in circles. Everything that can be said about this matter has already been said many many times in the thread, please read through it. Don't believe the disinformation.
/locked
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*Bump*
Minimal amount set
https://www.altbinz.net/forum/index.php?topic=984.msg2731#msg2731