We have coded and optimized the content of the JMMH for viewing with Microsoft Internet Explorer browser version 3.0 and above, and Netscape browser version 4.0 and above. You can adjust the font size to make viewing easier on your monitor by utilizing the font size commands in the "view" menu of your browser. In linking to off-site Web pages, we have written our code to open these pages as separate windows to clearly distinguish them from our own content (this is a change of practice from the first issue). You should re-size the pop-up windows to suit your viewing preferences, and don't forget to close them when you are done browsing, otherwise your desktop will get very cluttered. Previous issues of the JMMH—available through the "Past Issues" link on the left frame menu—open up on the right frame and not in separate pop-up windows. You can always return to the current issue by using the "Current Issue" link on the left frame menu. To fully appreciate the audio and video content of many of the feature articles and reviews, you will need RealPlayer browser plug-ins (supporting version 5.0 or above). We have chosen to transmit all audio and video files as streaming media clips. As the term suggests, streaming media is transmitted from a server to a client (your computer) and allows you to listen or watch content as the media files arrive. You do not have to download an entire audio or video file before you may listen or watch it. Except when there is internet congestion during busy hours of the day, there is little delay. We have decided that this is a superior mode of transmission of media files over the internet than downloading whole files (either MPEG, AVI, MOV, or WAV formats), where one has to wait for minutes—perhaps even hours—for large files to download. You may obtain a free up-to-date version of the necessary media streaming browser plug-in program (RealPlayer G2) from RealNetworks. Click here to download RealNetworks' RealPlayer software: RealPlayer. If you are using Windows 95/98, once you have downloaded the software locate and launch the file you downloaded—either with explorer, my computer, or choosing the "Run" option in the "Start" menu and specifying the path and file name. Wherever feasible, we have coded audio and video files into several versions, one optimized for slow internet connections (28.8 kb/sec. modems/connections) and one or more for 56 kbps modems, ISDN, or T1/T3 connections. Those with ISDN or T1/T3 ethernet access should, of course, always select the fastest download options offered. In future issues, we will implement bandwidth negotiation protocals, MP3 downloads, and other innovations, allowing our server to send you the best quality file for the specific connection speed you happen to use. As internet connections increase in speed, and as hardware and software changes occur, we will modify encoding and file formats accordingly to insure the readabilty and viewability of our current, as well as former, articles and reviews.~ End ~ Viewing Content |