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Talkomatic Classic is the open-source version of the Talkomatic chat platform, reimagining the classic chat room experience for the modern web. It offers real-time text communication where users can see messages as they are being typed, creating a unique and engaging chat environment.

Overview[]

Talkomatic Classic is a revival of the original Talkomatic system from the 1970s, adapted for contemporary web technologies. It provides a nostalgic yet functional chat experience, combining the immediacy of real-time typing with modern features and responsive design.

Key Features[]

  • Real-time Chat: Messages appear as they're being typed, not just after sending.
  • Multiple Room Types: Users can create public, semi-private (with access code), or private rooms.
  • Flexible Layout: Choice between horizontal or vertical room layouts.
  • User Presence: Visible indicators of who's in the room and their locations.
  • Invite System: Easy invitation to chat rooms via generated links.
  • Sound Notifications: Audible cues for user join/leave events.
  • Mobile Responsive: Adapts to various screen sizes for cross-device compatibility.

Technology Stack[]

Talkomatic Classic is built using modern web technologies:

  • Backend: Node.js with Express.js
  • Real-time Communication: Socket.IO
  • Frontend: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript (ES6+)

Installation[]

For those interested in running their own instance of Talkomatic Classic, the installation process is straightforward:

1. Clone the repository:

git clone https://github.com/MohdYahyaMahmodi/talkomatic-classic.git


2. Navigate to the project directory:

cd talkomatic-classic


3. Install dependencies:

npm install


4. Start the server:

node server.js

The application will be accessible at http://localhost:3000 by default.

Configuration[]

Talkomatic Classic can be customized using an optional .env file in the root directory. Available environment variables include:

  • NODE_ENV: Set to "development" or "production"
  • SESSION_SECRET: A unique secret for session management
  • ALLOWED_ORIGINS: Specify allowed origins for CORS
  • PORT: The port number for the server to listen on

Usage Guide[]

Joining the Lobby[]

Talkomatic-lobby

Talkomatic Classic Lobby

1. Navigate to the Talkomatic Classic URL (e.g., http://localhost:3000 for local installations).

2. Enter your name and optional location to sign in.

Creating a Room[]

1. In the lobby, provide room details (name, type, layout).

2. Click "Go Chat" to create and enter the new room.

Joining Existing Rooms[]

1. The lobby displays available public and semi-private rooms.

2. Click "Enter" on any room to join.

3. Semi-private rooms require an access code.

Chatting[]

Chatroom

Talkomatic Classic Chat Room

1. In a room, each user has a designated text area.

2. Start typing to see your message appear in real-time for all room participants.

Inviting Others[]

  • Use the provided invite link in the room to bring in more participants.

Exiting a Room[]

  • Click "Leave Room" to return to the lobby.

Development and Contributions[]

Talkomatic Classic is an open-source project that welcomes community contributions. Interested developers can contribute in several ways:

  • Reporting bugs and suggesting features through GitHub issues.
  • Submitting pull requests with bug fixes or new features.
  • Improving documentation or adding translations.

Contributors should refer to the project's Contributing Guidelines for more information.

Licensing[]

Talkomatic Classic is released under the MIT License, allowing for both personal and commercial use, modification, and distribution.

See Also[]

External Links[]

References[]

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