Retrieving Files

There are two modes for file transfer using FTP. The first is ASCII which is to be used for text files, such as any file conating the string README. The other mode is BINARY which is for non-text files such as executable files, image files etc.

To specify the mode at the DOS prompt, type ascii or binary (whichever is appropriate to the file you want to retrieve) then press ENTER. Being in the wrong mode can cause transfer errors to your files.

Retrieving a Binary File

Currently you should be logged in onto the expasy.hcuge.ch server, and have moved into the /pub/Graphics/IMAGES/GIF subdirectory. This directory contains image files in GIF format. To retrieve one of these, specify the binary transfer mode. Then type get 1AGA_agarose_1.gif 1aga.gif.

After transfer has taken place, you will have the file '1AGA_agarose_1.gif' in your local disk space and re-named as '1aga.gif' (DOS is case insensitive and this file will be listed as 1AGA.GIF).

In future, if you don't want to re-name a file then just type get filename and press ENTER, but remember DOS filenames are more restricted than UNIX filenames.

After Retrieval

You will not need the FTP server any further, therefore close the connection with it by typing close then pressing ENTER.

The Mosaic browser is able to display files in GIF format (denoted by filename extension or suffix '.gif') by invoking the image viewer software called LVIEW (which can also display files in JPEG format, whose extension might be '.jpg' for example). If you want to view the image you have retrieved, click on File on Mosaic's menu bar, then choose the Open Local File option. Specify your file (don't forget the drive) and click on OK.

The README File

The README file is a text file that contains the string README. It is located in some FTP directories for the information of the user. The user can retrieve this file to find out useful information regarding the file archive. Remember to use the ASCII transfer mode.

After having retrieve the README file, you can read its contents by going to the DOS prompt from Windows (as mentioned earlier in the tutorial) and type type filename then press ENTER. A file longer than one screen-length can be more appropriately displayed by piping into 'more', and this can be done by typing type filename |more then pressing ENTER.

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