Choosing Media


Introduction

The best choice of media for the multimedia demonstrations usually depends on the speed and reliability of your Internet connection. However, even a fast Internet connection may function slowly due to general congestion on the Internet or on the Course Web server. So, your best media choice may change from one work session to the next. You have two types of online media to select:

Choosing the Media Link
Use the table below to determine which media you should use.

Media Type Description Use this media when…
Streaming Video Streaming video plays the beginning of the demonstration while the rest of it is still being downloaded to your computer. This allows you to view the multimedia demonstrations more quickly. However, the video playback may pause frequently, making it difficult to view. you have a fast Internet connection (see below), or if a modem connection is reliable enough to play back streaming video smoothly.
Standard Movie Standard movies have the same sound and video quality as streaming video. However, you cannot view the video until the entire file has downloaded to your computer. This may take several minutes or more. Once the movie has downloaded, it will always play back very smoothly. streaming video pauses too often and does not play smoothly.
Tip: Try the stream link first. If it does not perform satisfactorily, then use the movie link.

Types of Internet Connections
Most Internet connections are one of the types below.

Connection Type Speed/Notes
Dialup Modem This is the slowest type of Internet connection. In many rural areas, connection speeds may be too slow to view streaming media.
T1 Line Most colleges and universities use this fast Internet connection. However, if there is a high level of traffic on the connection, sometimes the flow of data will slow down.
Cable Modem This is a very fast Internet connection that is becoming very popular. However, not all areas have this service available.
DSL Modem This is another type of fast Internet connection. It will not be available at all in most rural areas.