Ok, first, we have a search feature, which allows you to enter key words and do searches. As this seems to be THE most frequently asked question on SF, I'm sure you'll find the answer several times. In addition, there is the site announcements and feedback section of the forum, which will answer just about every question you could have about how this site works.
You have to be a member for at least two days AND make a specific number of contributing posts (20 or 25?). It's updated on the hour, so the second you make your 20th post does not mean you can access multimedia. You might actually have to wait a whole extra hour.
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