14 DAY TRIAL // The sending of large attachments, and in general large files over the Internet has always been a difficult task for those not savvy enough to set up their own FTP server. Even so, having to explain to the other person how to get on your FTP can prove a chore in itself. There are several programs out there that help you in doing the heavy file transfers and FileChute is one of them.
What it does FileChute does several things in its quest to ease your large file transfers.
First is to package the file or files, archiving them into your preferred format so that they may be password protected and are conveniently stored into one single file. Then, it uploads the file and presents you with a link to that file, which you can send over just about anything from e-mail to instant messaging applications.
The other person can then download the file regardless of the programs and operating system they have. The approach seems sound, and indeed it is, although there are certain limitations that make or break this program.
Getting the files ready To send files you just drag and drop them into the well. A simple and efficient method that has only one limitation: if you want to send multiple files, you have to put them all together in the Finder before dragging them into the well.
Once files have been dragged into the well, you will be prompted with a window in which you are asked to state your desired name for the resulting file and the package type that can be TAR, ZIP or DMG. You can alternatively opt to send the files as they are should you wish to. DMG packages can also be password protected for the added security.
The question is, if the program does package the files, why not archive them at the same time? This would serve to make them smaller and cut down on upload and download times, not to mention conserve storage space.
Uploading the files This is the really tricky part? you need a FTP server to upload to.
If you have a .Mac account or an EarthLink one, you are set. Just enter you username and password and you are ready to go. If you don't have one of those accounts however, you can still use the program using either WebDAV or FTP, but both require you setting it up in advance and making the appropriate linking in the program.
This is where the program fails to deliver, if you have either a .Mac or EarthLink account you can use it easily, but otherwise, you have to do things yourself, and , if you can set up your own FTP server and configure it in the program, then you don't need this program to begin with.
Still, if everything is set up, it will begin uploading the files and present you with a link that you can send to the person or persons that you want to send the files to.
Is it any good? The answer to this question relies on another question? Do you have a .Mac or EarthLink account? If you do, than this program is worth it for making things easier. If you don't, then this program is not really worth the bother since getting it to work requires a lot of work, which defies its purpose.
A much better alternative if you don't have the two aforementioned hosting services, albeit with its own limitations is Pando, which lets you upload huge files to the Pando servers from where they can be downloaded by the recipient. However, Pando requires the other person to have the program installed. Even so, it is a lot simpler than getting your own FTP server.
The Good Drag and drop simplicity for uploading to your .Mac and EarthLink account and sending the relevant link to the recipient. Makes sending multiple files easy through packaging.
The Bad Not really useful without the aforementioned services. Despite packaging in archive format it does not actually compress the files in any way.
The Truth The usefulness of this program depends on third party services, which you might or might not have. In the ideal conditions it makes sending large and multiple files easy, although you will still be limited to your storage capacities. If you like the idea behind this program but find it is not to your liking, then Pando might prove to be a better choice for you, although it too is not without certain limitations.
Here are some screenshots, click to enlarge:
