I used to access the chat via the board and java, it did work, but every so often it would be flakey and unable to log into the chat room. Very frustrating. The java download was about 7Mb, very slow on dialup.
Upgraded to an irc program thanks to a suggestion fron Dane. I use Mirc, and that works much much better, have had no probs getting into the room and chatting, plus it gives more features. Am very happy that I made the shift from the java interface to Mirc.
Google on mirc and download to find a site that has the software, a zip file about 1.5Mb. Unzip and run. Make sure you use the settings previously posted.
Other people use Xchat or gaim with good success too. Gaim also interfaces to your msn chat rooms.