Frequently Asked Questions

Why haven't I received my license key?
Keep in mind that it normally takes about 10 minutes. If it has been longer, read on:

• Please check the email address you gave us. Your email address may be outdated or may have been typed incorrectly.
• If you filter your mail for spam (junk email), check to see that the "license key email" isn't in your spam box. If you have already deleted it, please contact us.
• If you haven't received it within 24 hours, please contact us (you may want to include your phone number so we can bypass your spam filter).

Does Crossword Forge run on computers with Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard?
Yes. Crossword Forge works great on Leopard.

Does Crossword Forge run on computers with Microsoft Windows Vista?
Yes. Crossword Forge works great on Vista.

How do I export a puzzle to play on the web?
For detailed instructions on exporting and loading to the web, click here.

When exporting to the web, I need to separate the html file from the rest of the puzzle content (flash file (.swf), backdrop, and xml file). How do I do this?
Alter the html in the generated index.html file. Add a parameter called 'base' to the object and embed tags. This parameter needs to point to the folder which holds the .swf file. Your other files must be grouped with the .swf. For more information about the 'base' parameter, read this TechNote from Adobe.

Can I use Adobe (formerly Macromedia) Contribute to link to a web puzzle?
Yes, but (as far as we can tell) you will need to upload the exported folder (the one you made when exporting to the web) using an FTP program. Now in Contribute just add a new link, and set the web address in the "Browse" tab. You will want to point it to the index.html file of the folder you uploaded by FTP.

What is an FTP program?
FTP programs will allow you to upload your puzzles to the web. Some programs just do FTP, others are website creation tools but have FTP built-in as an added benefit. Here is a brief list of some of those options (Note: We do not warrant or endorse any of these products)

• Dreamweaver (Mac + Windows) $$$, but can do a lot more than just FTP.
• Transmit (Mac Only) $$
• CyberDuck (Mac Only) Donationware
• SmartFTP (Windows Only) $$

Is it possible to change the margins on printed tests (I want to use a hole punch)?
Yes. You can change the margins using the "Page Setup" dialog which you access through Crossword Forge's "File" menu.

How do I export at a higher resolution than 72dpi?
Make sure you download the latest version of Crossword Forge (PDF support was added in April 2005). Select Export from the File menu and choose "PDF."
Please note: there are several known limitations to the current implementation. If these items affect your puzzle it is recommended that you use a 3rd party PDF printer driver, or if you are using Mac OS X, that you use Mac OS X "Save As PDF..." button in the print dialog. Nevertheless the built-in export works well, in most cases. Below you will find the known limitations.

• Non-European language characters are replaced by question marks (e.g. Japanese, Chinese, Arabic, Hebrew, Punjabi, Dong).
• Fonts aren't embedded in the PDF so the output may vary on other computers. Usually you can fix this by opening the PDF file in a PDF tool like Adobe Acrobat and re-saving.

Does Crossword Forge build symmetrical puzzles?
No

Does it make any difference what order I type in the clues?
No, Crossword Forge will sort the clues for optimal placement.

Can I publish a puzzle made with Crossword Forge?
Yes. No royalties nor credit need be attributed to Crossword Forge or Sol Robots L.L.C. Use puzzles for whatever you'd like. Crossword Forge Live puzzles automatically include a link to the Sol Robots website.

How can I spell check?
Select Check Spelling... from the Edit menu.

I'm running Crossword Forge in Mac Classic, why do I see question marks when I choose Japanese, Chinese, Russian or Punjabi?
You have to have a font that supports that character set (e.g. Osaka supports Japanese Hiragana, Japanese Katakana, and Chinese Tradtional). Choose the font in the Clues Tab. For Mac OS X and Windows, as long as you have the font installed on your computer, Crossword Forge will find it.

Crossword Forge doesn't have a feature that I need, whom do I contact about it?
Send an email to help AT solrobots.com

How do I report a bug?
Send an email to help AT solrobots.com

I'm having trouble using Crossword Forge. I need to talk to a real live person.
Phone (512) 853-9645 or send an email to help AT solrobots.com with your question and contact information.