Overview of the Communication Channels

The Sun Java System Portal Server product offers four communication channels that are accessible by end users directly in Portal Desktop. These channels allow end users access to corresponding applications, such as a mail application, to enable end users to organize, schedule, and communicate more effectively and efficiently.

The four communication channels are:

Address Book Channel

The Address Book channel displays address book entries for end users to view. To access the address book in order to create and edit address book entries, first click Launch Address Book.

Calendar Channel

The Calendar channel displays calendar events and tasks for end users to view. To access the calendar application in order to create new tasks and events, first click Launch Calendar.

Instant Messaging Channel

The Instant Messaging Channel displays the presence status of other users with access to Sun Java^TM System Instant Messenger. These contacts are from a list end users have created within the Instant Messenger application. Initiate a chat from the channel by clicking a presence status icon, which is one method of invoking Instant Messenger. To get presence updates directly from the channel, reload Portal Desktop. To receive presence updates as they occur, view contacts’ presence status from Instant Messenger by invoking the application; therefore, click Instant Messenger.

Mail Channel

The Mail channel displays mail messages sent to end users for them to view. To access the mail application in order to read and compose messages, click Launch Mail.