Is there a possible way to find client time using CGI?

leusmith · 08-16-2007, 12:52 AM

Hi guys.....

I am currently developing a website that is to hold user-generated content(like forums).

I do not want to use JavaScript to find out the user's system time(becoz if it is disabled I will have to show the GMT time or anything else).
I need to know which timezone they are in. If I can get the user's system time, I can find the difference.

Is there any possible way to do it with CGI?
I am wondering...

I do not want to use any solution like Hostip.info (its free but not reliable). Anything like Maxmind's GeoIP would cost either $50 for the database or $20 per month. I am a student with a limited budget and do not want to go for such services. I would like to know whether there is any solution....

--
Waiting for your reply

sdsinc · 08-16-2007, 06:26 AM

There is no guaranteed way.
Javascript is not always enabled on the browser.

Looking up the IP could be the best solution.
Maxmind provides a free db with IP/country match but without latitude/longitude information. At least you have the country but large countries like the US span several time zones...
Also certain IPs may not be in the DB. Assume the match rate is something like 99%.

Advice: let users update their profile but 'suggest' the best guess. The free geoip db is a good start.

08-16-2007, 12:52 AM	#1 (permalink)
leusmith NamePros Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Posts: 139 57.70 NP$ (Donate)	Is there a possible way to find client time using CGI? Hi guys..... I am currently developing a website that is to hold user-generated content(like forums). I do not want to use JavaScript to find out the user's system time(becoz if it is disabled I will have to show the GMT time or anything else). I need to know which timezone they are in. If I can get the user's system time, I can find the difference. Is there any possible way to do it with CGI? I am wondering... I do not want to use any solution like Hostip.info (its free but not reliable). Anything like Maxmind's GeoIP would cost either $50 for the database or $20 per month. I am a student with a limited budget and do not want to go for such services. I would like to know whether there is any solution.... -- Waiting for your reply

08-16-2007, 06:26 AM	#2 (permalink)
sdsinc Domains my Dominion Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Web 1.0 Posts: 6,288 1,095.94 NP$ (Donate)	There is no guaranteed way. Javascript is not always enabled on the browser. Looking up the IP could be the best solution. Maxmind provides a free db with IP/country match but without latitude/longitude information. At least you have the country but large countries like the US span several time zones... Also certain IPs may not be in the DB. Assume the match rate is something like 99%. Advice: let users update their profile but 'suggest' the best guess. The free geoip db is a good start. __________________ Buy now - MassDeveloper.com $500

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