Streaming Audio/Video FAQ
Listening to German Online
Frequently asked questions related to the article, "Hören Sie zu! Listen!," and the Listening Tips how-to by your Guide. The details on streaming audio and video for German, with links to player downloads.
Q1. What is streaming audio or video?
A. Streaming audio or video is sound (as on the radio) or video (as on television) delivered over the Internet via a modem or broadband connection.
Q2. Why is it called "streaming"?
A. It's called "streaming" because the sound and picture data flow in a digital stream from a server computer to your computer, ready to hear or view in real time, without having to download all of the content before you can enjoy it. It comes to you in a stream of digital bits... hence the term "streaming."
Q3. What kinds of streaming audio or video are there?
A. There are three main streaming media companies: Real, Media Player (Microsoft) and QuickTime (Apple). All three provide streaming media players for the Mac and Windows platforms. All three also provide "basic" free players and optional "plus" players that offer extra features - at extra cost. The three media player types vary in cross-compatibility. Many Web sites also use Macromedia's Flash/Shockwave for audio and visual effects. More about players in Part 2 of this FAQ.
Q4. What difference does it make if content is streamed, rather than downloaded?
A. Audio and video files can be very large. You would spend many minutes or even hours waiting for them to be downloaded to your computer if they weren't streamed. Streaming media technology allows you to see or hear the content in just a few seconds, instead of having to wait for it. Your only wait is a few seconds for a "buffer" to be built up that helps avoid interruptions caused by Internet traffic problems.
Q5. What special equipment do I need to get streaming audio or video?
A. You only need a modern computer with a Web connection (minimum 28.8 Kbps modem for audio, 56 Kbps for video) plus player software that can receive and process audio/video streams. You may already have such software on your computer, but if not, it is available as a free download from Real.com, Media Player or Quicktime. You can also record streaming audio with third party software. (See Part 2 for more.)
Q6. How can I tell if I have everything I need?
A. Most recent computers will have everything needed. If you have speakers/earphones for your computer and you've heard them play sound, chances are you're okay. The faster your online connection (modem, cable, DSL) and computer speed (in megahertz), the higher the quality of the streaming audio or video will be. A 56 Kbps modem is a practical minimum for video.
Q7. Can I receive streaming audio via Web TV?
A. Earlier versions of Web TV can't receive streaming media, but some later versions can. You should check your manual or ask the Web TV folks to see if your model supports streaming audio/video.
NEXT > Streaming Players and Where to Get Them (FAQs 8-12)
FAQ Part 1 | FAQ Part 2
Related Pages
Listening Tips
Some good advice about how to listen to German on the Web. From your Guide.
Are You Listening?
Why you should be! Plus links to various sources of German audio online.
German for Beginners
Our free online course with sound for some lessons and exercises.
Listening to Germany
A review of the German audio magazine Schau ins Land, available on tape or CD.
Online TV/Video
German TV and streaming video on the Web.
The Sound of Music... and Lyrics
German music and lyrics make learning fun.
Using Authentic Language Sources on the Web
Techniques and tips (some from readers). How even beginners can use "real" German on the Web to learn the language.
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