IdleTime and file number limits

Jeff Lauterette reports getting error messages that say "Too many open files" or "You have exceeded the 50 file limit" when running Mac OS 8.5. This happens even though he has only 1 or 2 programs open at the time. He tracked down the cause to an extension called IdleTime. According to Conflict Catcher 8's database, it is "an extension provided by UserLand Software to test for user activity in scripts via the Gestalt mechanism." Disabling the extension cured the problem. [Note: I have this extension installed and have never seen these error messages.]

The MRP reports that the extension gets installed by AOL Instant Messenger. This has now been confirmed by readers - and it means that Netscape Communicator installs the extension (since it installs AIM). It also may be installed by Eudora 4.x.