returning (essentially new) player with some questions

[OneirosFortyTwo]

Hi everyone, I played Planetside during its original beta and for a short while after its release. I lost interest for some reason, but since I was subscribed back in the day I now have 45 day trial subscription, so I'm back (and an instant "six year veteran too")! At least for 45 days anyway. I'll decide then if the $15/mo is worth it.

Anyway, some basic questions for anyone kind enough to answer:

1) I have a surround sound setup, but since my soundcard is integrated into the motherboard, my sound options are limited. I've found that of the few options that actually work ("this option is not supported by your hardware") only DirectSound3D Software Emulation actually gives a surround effect. Any idea why Dolby Surround only comes out in 2D? I know my card (SoundMAX) supports Dolby and DTS surround, so what gives?
*EDIT* Scrap that, I figured it out. Dolby Surround only works when you have your sound on digital output (SPDIF) and I'd been using discrete analog output. Switched over and it works properly now.

2) Is there a way to see the population of each planet/zone/area? I've yet to find it, and I've done all the training missions.

3) What times of day are best to play? I've got a job and kids so my playtime is limited and irregular. As a result I'll probably never be able to join an outfit/clan/guild, so I'd like to know when my best bets are to join wars.

4) Are there any images (jpg, gif, bmp) of the default keyboard layouts I could print for reference? It's a pain in the ass opening the menu and hunting through the lists for the function I want.

5) I've heard some people recommend flora and weather be disabled, due to mines and enemy visibility respectively. I like being able to have all the graphic options maxed out, so is that really a recommended action or only for the hardcore?

6) Locations of any good (and current) guides are welcome.

Thanks for any help, and I'll see you on the field of battle.

At some point.

For a bit.

Until the kids start screaming.