When the Chat page loads (assuming you are logged in) you will find yourself in the General channel.  While there, you may chat with other users or join/create other channels.  There is currently no way for individual users to list available channels or users online so it's probably best for everyone to keep at least one foot in General at all times.

While it is not necessarily "bad" to idle in channels, idling users my be disconnected by the system on occasion.  Coming back to the Chat page and refreshing it (pressing the F5 key on your keyboard works with many popular browsers) occasionally will ensure you do not become involuntarily disconnected and should reveal any conversation that may have taken place in your "absence".

Commands:

• /ban - This is used to block an IP address from a channel.
• /banlist - This lists currently blocked IP addresses for a channel.
• /clear - This clears the chat buffer for the current user's session.
• /connect - Connects to the Chat system after disconnection.
• /debug - Shows debug info.
• /deop - This removes moderator (admin) status from a user.
• /dice - This is not currently used.
• /help - Displays a list of all available commands.
• /identify - Identifies the user to the system to grant admin rights.  This is not currently used.
• /init - Initializes the chat system.
• /invite - Invites another user to the current channel.
• /join - Joins another channel or creates it if it does not yet exist.
• /kick - Forcibly removes a user from a channel.
• /leave - Exits a channel.
• /me - Begins an emote.
• /nick - Allows a user to change own nickname.
• /op - This grants moderator (admin) status to a user.
• /privmsg - Initiates a private chat with another user.
• /quit - Leaves the chat system.  A user who has /quit must /connect to be able to chat again.
• /redirect - Opens a URL in the current browser window (replaces the chat).  This will use the website's URL as root.
• /rehash - Deletes the cached configuration.  Used to when altering chat system.
• /send - Sends text to the channel.  This is the default command and is the same as entering text and pressing Enter.
• /unban - Removes a ban on a user.
• /version - Shows the version of the currently running chat system.
• /who - Has no apparent function.  Should list users in a channel, but does not.
• /whois - Reveals some information about a user.