Test Driving Linux

Dealing with Helper Applications

Helper applications are programs that work with a web browser to handle certain types of files, such as PDFs, Flash animations, and videos. Helper applications often require you to make some changes in your computer setup (also known as your configuration) so that your web browser knows which application to launch when it encounters certain types of files.

The Move CD includes the following helper applications:

Acrobat Reader

You can use this program to view Portable Document Files (PDFs). These files often show up on the Internet as links on various web sites. PDFs are used when their creators want to be certain you see the document exactly the way they want it displayed. The Acrobat Reader program is provided by Adobe and includes a small browser plug-in that makes it possible to view PDF images inside your web browser.

Macromedia's Flash Player

Many web sites contain multimedia sections that are viewable only with the Flash Player. These so-called Flash animations are very common on the Internet; many web sites use Flash to create interactive games or experiences for visitors. This program is the most commonly downloaded plug-in in the world.

Real's RealPlayer

You can use this program to view streaming sound and video over the Internet. Many news and music web sites provide multimedia streams that require this program.

Some other popular helper applications, such as Macromedia's Shockwave, do not run on Linux, so Konqueror doesn't support them. ...