podcast user question, help please!

[pdbois]

I figure the best place to get an answer is from those who create podcasts; that would you out there. I've not been able to find a website with instructions for (dummies) users as opposed to creators of podcasts.

WSJ on line frequently has a link to a podcast of something I want to see as well as hear. I've never successfully SEEN/WATCHED a podcast; I can only hear them. What I see is swirling colors in MSPlayer.

WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO to be able to WATCH/SEE podcasts? I am frustrated to tears from failure to figure this out. :confused:

pdb

[WyethDigital]

Many podcasts, the majority actually, are audio programs. Most commonly in .mp3 format. You can only listen to mp3 podcasts.

If you want to watch a video podcast, you need a player that can decode the file it's been created in. Most video podcasts are mp4 files, but not all mp4 files are the same! The best looking mp4 files use an advanced compression format called h.264. These are typically referred to as "iPod format" and usually carry the file extensions of .m4v or .mov. To play "iPod Format" files on your computer, you have a number of options: QuickTime (http://www.apple.com/quicktime/), Democracy Player (http://www.getdemocracy.com/downloads/), or something called VLC. (http://www.videolan.org/vlc/) It should be noted that some portable media players from Creative can also play "iPod Format" video podcasts (they're not just for the iPod), and that Windows Media Player can play plain (non-h.264) versions of mp4 files.

Eric

[pdbois]

I know one of the podcasts I wanted to see was regarding fashions. The purpose of the podcast was for viewers to see the fashions. It's long gone.

Is there a podcast somewhere on this forum that is both to watch and listen that I can use to test?

And where can I get one of the programs that will allow me to watch? I do not use Ipods or any high tech equipment other than my PC and laptop; I just need something for my computers.

Thanks so much for the help!

[dpeach]

The previous poster, WyethDigital, has links in his signature. Those are video podcasts. Go to his sites and you should be able to download and watch his shows. You probably have everything on your computer already to see his shows.

Give it a try and if you are not successful, come back here and ask. He would be glad to help you get started. (Especially if you tell other people nice things about his show.)

[pdbois]

Thanks all, it worked. I actally WATCHED a podcast. Noe, if only I could make that delicious salad also in only one minute.....

pdb