2/3     I don't get this.  Why is it that certain programs that use 8-bit
        color require that you have an 8 bit display rather than 24 or 32.
        It seems to make sense that if your system is capable of displaying
        st
        24 or 32 bit color then it should certainly be able to run programs
        that use 8-bit color.  From Max:

        Max requires colormapped graphics.  Your XServer is probably setup
        for true color (e.g. 16-bit or 24-bit mode).  To run Max, reconfigure
        your X server for 8 bit colormapped graphics.
        \_ 16 and 24 bit modes are not colormapped.  8 bit almost always is.
        \_ Lazy programmers
        \_ Some graphics cards with some X servers can provide 8-bit and
           24-bit visuals at the same time.  -tom