The computer I use for IRC is on the opposite end of the room from where I'm usually sitting (in fact I've been known to SSH to it rather than get up and move).
I idle in #guitar_tricks 24/7, so so I'll always be there. But as a general rule if I don't respond in less than say, 10 minutes, I'm either busy doing something or not even in the apartment.
Really, if people would stay longer it would help.
The guitar tricks chat is #guitar_tricks on irc.ircstorm.net
