1. Getting Started


This chapter presents information on the hardware and software requirements for MEGA, installation instructions, and availability of technical support and future updates.

1.1 Hardware and Software

MEGA, version 1.0, is written and compiled in the Borland C++ and Applications Framework, version 3.1. It runs on all IBM and IBM-compatible personal computers, including PCs, XTs, ATs, PS/2s, laptops, and notebooks with most color and monochrome monitors . This program requires 640KB RAM memory and DOS (operating system) version 3.3 or later. MEGA can also be run on OS/2 and Microsoft Windows using DOS application capabilities. MEGA requires a hard disk, but extended and expanded memories, graphics adapters, and math co-processors are not necessary. However, the availability of a math-chip will enhance the speed and performance of MEGA.

The user-interface in MEGA responds to the keyboard as well as to the mouse. Although a mouse is not essential, one of the following types of mouse is recommended for MEGA :

1. Microsoft mouse version 6.1 or later or any true compatible mouse.
2. Logitech mouse version 3.4 or later.
3. Mouse systems' PC mouse version 6.22 or later.
4. IMSI mouse version 6.1.1 or later.

1.2 Installing MEGA

An automatic installation program, INSTALL, is provided with MEGA. You MUST install MEGA from the master diskette(s) distributed by the authors. Failure to do so may cause unexpected results. DO NOT simply copy the files from the MEGA master diskette(s) to the computer.

TO INSTALL MEGA:
1. Insert MEGA disk #1 into an external drive (example A:).
2. Type A: and press Enter.
3. Type INSTALL and press Enter.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen, if any.

Installation of MEGA will automatically create a C:\MEGA directory and the program files will be installed in this directory. MEGA MUST NOT be installed or moved to other drives and/or other directories.

1.3 Running MEGA

To run MEGA, go to C:\MEGA directory; type MEGA, and press Enter. To use MEGA from any other directory, add C:\MEGA to the PATH command in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file of the computer. Please consult your DOS manuals about the modification of the PATH command.

1.4 README File

The README file contains current information, including changes not listed in this manual. You should take a careful look at this file if it is present in the C:\MEGA directory.

1.5 Technical Support and Updates

Only registered users may request technical support, including information on programming errors and future improvements of MEGA . If you do not have a registration number in your name (as indicated on the original diskette(s) sent by the authors), you must register by writing to the authors.

If MEGA does not run properly, please refer to the manual before contacting the authors. Re-install the MEGA program from the master diskettes carefully following the instructions given in section 1.2. If the problem persists, you MUST send the following information for technical assistance to the address given on the inside page of the front cover by a letter, e-mail, or fax. No telephone enquiry will be accepted.

1. Your name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address, if any.
2. MEGA version number, and your registration number.
3 . Model numbers of the computer, monitor, printer, and mouse, if available.
4. Operating system and version number.
5. Copy of the input data file.
6. Exact sequence of events that led to the problem.

1.6 For Classroom Teaching

Because MEGA includes many statistical methods for the study of molecular evolution and because it has an interactive user-interface, it is suitable for classroom teaching. If you are interested in using MEGA for your classroom, please contact the authors to make suitable arrangements.

1.7 Source Code Availability

This manual provides information on most features of MEGA, and we discourage requests for the source code of the complete program or of any part. However, any suggestion that may improve the analysis of molecular evolutionary data will be welcomed.


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