Frequently Asked Questions

What is podcasting?

Podcasting is a way of delivering audio (and video) content that enables people to get content easily and at their convenience. Once a user subscribes to a podcast, they will be able to access all the content for the Podcast and will be notified as new content becomes available.

Created by combining the words iPod and broadcast, Podcasting originally refered to the download of subscription audio content (usually in .mp3 format) to an iPod or other compatible player. Now audiences can use a podcast capable application or device to subscribe to a series of on-demand broadcasts which can be heard or viewed anytime. It is just that simple.

How do I participate in an IBM Podcast?

You can participate in a IBM Podcast into two ways. You can either use a podcast application to subscribe and playback podcasts or download and listen directly.

How do I subscribe to and playback IBM Podcasts?

To subscribe and playback Podcasts, first you need to download an appropriate podcast client and next you need to subscribe to a Podcast Feed.

To subscribe to a feed:

• Choose a podcast to which you want to subscribe.
• On the podcast webpage, right click on the button, and select "Copy Shortcut" or "Copy Link Location".
• In your podcast client, select the option to add a new podcast feed or subscription. (See the podcast troubleshooting page for specific instructions for recommended podcast applications)
• Paste the the podcast URL to complete the subscription.

Which podcast application should I use?

There are numerous "podcatchers". iTunes is a free audio / music manager application that supports podcasting with some extra features. It is easy to use and is a good starting place for anyone just getting started with Podcasting. Although free, iTunes is licensed proprietary software.

A good open-source podcast client is Juice (formerly iPodder). Despite not having an integrated media player, this lightweight podcast client is easy to use and is another good starting place for anyone looking for an open source client.

Another recommended podcasting application is iPodderX, a inexpensive full featured podcast software that has a free trial.

Can I download and listen to IBM Podcast events using just my browser?

Yes. All IBM Podcasts can be downloaded using the browser in .mp3 format and played in your default media player. To download podcast events:

• Choose a podcast to which you want to download.
• At the appropriate event listing on the podcast webpage, right click on the image or the "Download in .mp3 format" link.
• Select the "Save target as" or "Save link as" option from the pop-up menu.
• Choose where to save the media file.
• When the download completes, open the file in your favorite media player. (E.g. Windows Media Player or Real Player)

Do I have to download an IBM Podcast completely before listening to it?

No, if you left click a "Download in .mp3 format" link on a Podcast channel page, it will open the .mp3 file up into your default media player and start playing as a progressive download.

Note: if you do not have a large enough bandwidth connection, this may result in the playback of the file stopping or rebuffering.