Podcast FAQ

What is a podcast?

The distribution of audio or video files, such as radio programs or music videos, over the Internet. It's on-demand information or entertainment.

Why call it a podcast?

It's a mixture of two words: "iPod" (Apple's portable mp3 player) and "broadcasting". But they are not just available on iPods. You can use any mp3 player.

What do I need to be able to listen to a podcast straight away?

To listen to the podcast straight away from your computer, you can use the Flash Player. Just remember to turn your volume up.

Why subscribe?

Subscribing to podcasts allows you to collect the latest edition of a podcast as soon as it is available without having to come to the page and download it. You can then listen either online or off-line through a portable device, whenever and wherever it is convenient. There is no charge for subscribing.

What do I need to be able to subscribe to a podcast?

All you need is a computer and an internet connection and software that you will need to install. Software suppliers include iTunes. In the case of iTunes, you just go to the "Advanced" menu and choose "Subscribe to podcast" and follow the instructions. Other programs will be different. To then listen to the podcast, you'll need an mp3 player or any computer with audio playing software. And you'll need to turn the volume up.

What do I need to be able to download a podcast?

We would suggest that you subscribe to the podcast or listen to the podcast with the Flash Player. Downloading can take some time as the file size is large. To download the podcast, just click the link indicated. Once downloaded, the file is then able to be transferred to a portable player or played on your computer in the normal way.

Is there any cost?

No, it's free.

Experiencing any problems?

It is likely that the problem will be with the podcasting application, so first look at the relevant Help section. You could then delete the podcast feed and re-subscribe to the service. If that doesn't work, then you could try installing another podcasting application.

I can't hear anything on my computer.

You will need to have a media player on your computer eg. Windows Media Player, Real Player or iTunes. Ensure your volume is turned up and that any speakers or headphones are properly connected.

I have a Mac.

The subscription and Flash Player options are still applicable and recommended. As mentioned above, we would discourage downloading. However, this can be done by holding down the Control key on your keyboard and clicking on the mp3 link. There is a menu of options. One of these options will be "Download link to disk" or "Download Linked File". You can then save to the folder you choose.

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