JBJS Podcasts and Vodcasts FAQ
1. Terminology
Podcasting combines the terms iPod and broadcasting to describe audio content delivered through the Internet. A podcast is a digital media audio file that is shared over the web using syndication feeds. An enhanced podcast is a podcast multimedia format that allows images to be displayed in time with audio. Enhanced podcasts are also able to present chapter markers in an audio file that allow users to jump to predetermined spots in the presentation. JBJS offers enhanced podcasts as well as standard podcast files for download and playback later via your media player.
Vodcasting is a term used for the online delivery of video using syndication feeds. The term is an evolution derived from the generally audio-based podcast. Consumers can subscribe to the syndicated feed using a computer or mobile multimedia device.
2. Do I need an iPod?
No. You do not need an iPod or other portable media player to listen and/or subscribe to JBJS podcasts or to download and watch JBJS vodcasts. You can access these files on your computer by saving the file to your computer and opening it with your player of choice.
3. What is the difference between MP3 and M4A formats?
The MP3 format has a wide acceptance. It is available on numerous devices and systems, making it the current standard. M4A is the newer format. It has recently become much more widespread because it is the format of choice by iTunes and the iPod. (It is important to note that the iPod is also compatible with the MP3 whereas other media players may not be compatible with the M4A format.) JBJS podcasts are available in both MP3 and enhanced M4A formats.
4. What is the difference between MP4 and M4V formats?
These are video files, like the audio files described above, that have been encoded differently. MP4 has wide acceptance and is used to play video on numerous media players. M4V is the newer format and is used by iTunes and the iPod. JBJS vodcasts use the M4V format. There is software available commercially to convert between the two formats.
5. Where can I get free podcasting software?
If you don't yet have podcasting software, you can get it for free using these links:
6. Where can I get free vodcasting software to play JBJS vodcasts?
If you don't yet have video media player software on your computer, you can get it for free using these links:
7. How do I access the JBJS podcasts and vodcasts?
There are several options to access JBJS podcasts:
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Through iTunes. By selecting the Tunes logo, the JBJS enhanced podcast will download and place it in your iTunes library. Once it has
downloaded, double click on the JBJS podcast title for immediate play. iTunes has conveniently added a chapter navigation tool located in the toolbar.
Only enhanced podcasts will activate this option.
Optional: Subscribe to iTunes. You have the option to have iTunes automatically notify
you of new JBJS enhanced podcast releases. Once you have the latest iTunes version installed and running, navigate to the iTunes Store. Once
you've logged in, select 'Podcasts' in the 'iTunes Store' box. Select the category "Science and Medicine". Then, click on "Medicine"
in the 'More Science and Medicine' box. In the center-featured area, click 'See All' and scroll to locate the JBJS Podcast and click 'Subscribe'. iTunes
will conveniently download the most recent JBJS podcast and will notify you every time a new JBJS enhanced podcast is posted. You then have the
option to upload the files to your iPod.
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Listen Now. JBJS has chosen Flash media player for instant podcast access because of its ability to play direct feed audio files
compatible with our enhanced podcasts (which contain a navigation tool unavailable on other players). Merely click on the Play arrow and the
podcast will start automatically.
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Download for playback later. Here you have the choice to download the JBJS podcast files directly to your computer.
Select the appropriate file format as explained in 'What is the difference between MP3 and M4A formats?' above,
then save to your desktop.*
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Watch the JBJS vodcast. If you do not have M4V compatible video player installed on your computer, download one free from
the options above in 'Where can I get free vodcasting software to play JBJS vodcasts?'. When you click on the
JBJS vodcast link the video synopsis should automatically play depending on how you set your media player preferences.
8. Terms of Use
The MP3 and M4A audio files, XML files and M4V video files that together comprise JBJS's podcast are protected by U.S. and international
copyright laws. All rights to podcast(s) originating from JBJS, including the content and technology included therein, are reserved to JBJS. For
questions, problems, or permission requests, please e-mail subs@jbjs.org
*You can play the file later by opening it with any of the audio programs listed under 'Where can I get free podcasting software?'.