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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) for Video



Getting started

What are the hardware and software requirements?
A properly configured computer with Windows Media Player is required to view video content. For PCs, you'll need Windows 98 or greater. For Macs, you'll need Mac OS X version 10.3.9 or greater, Windows Media Player 9 for Mac OS X or QuickTime 6.5 or greater and the Flip4Mac plug-in that allows Windows Media files to play in QuickTime Player.

To use Windows Media Player, you need the following:

Microsoft Windows minimum system requirements
Minimum System Requirements for Windows Media Player:

  • 233 MHz Intel Pentium II processor
  • 64 MB of RAM
  • 56 Kbps modem (audio only)
  • 16-bit sound card and speakers
  • 65,000-color video display card set to display at 1024x768 (video)
  • Windows 98 SE, Windows 2000, Windows ME, Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 4 or later, Windows XP
  • IE 6.0 or later

Recommended

  • 500 MHz Intel Pentium III processor or greater (supports simultaneous record/playback features)
  • 512 MB of RAM
  • Broadband connection
  • Compatible 5.1 multichannel audio sound card and speakers
  • Video display card with 256 MB of RAM or higher set to display at 1024x768 or higher resolution (video)
  • Windows 98 SE, Windows 2000, Windows ME, Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 4 or later, Windows XP
  • IE 6.0 Service Pack 2 or later

Troubleshooting

Why do I see a blank window instead of a video?
To experience movies or audio content on MayoClinic.com, you must have Windows Media Player (version 7.1 or newer) by Microsoft installed on your computer. The Windows Media Player download page provides general download and installation instructions. For more specific information, you can access Microsoft's download page below.

Why are there stops or gaps while listening to videos?
For streaming audio and video to play smoothly, data must be transferred from the web to your computer at a sufficient rate. Bandwidth constraints, caused by fluctuation in Internet connectivity or excessive activity on your internal network, can interrupt the video stream and cause gaps in the audio. If the poor quality you are experiencing is a result of bandwidth or network limitations, the situation will very likely be temporary. You may want to try again at another time.

You may also experience these types of problems when your computer's resources are limited. Try not to run other applications while accessing streaming media.

Do I have the correct browser installed?
You must have a properly configured browser to view video. Currently, Internet Explorer version 6.0 (or later) or Firefox version 1.5 is required. You can download the latest versions of each below.

How do I install Windows Media Player?
The Windows Media Player download page provides general instructions. For more specific information, you can access the Windows Media Player download page below.

How will my network's firewall affect my experience?
If you experience problems viewing videos or if you are unable to access Microsoft's Web site, your network administrator may need to modify your network settings. Contact your network administrator for more information.

Why does my video appear too fast, too slow, scratchy or distorted?
Video may appear too fast, too slow, scratchy or distorted because of a range of possible circumstances — both with the Internet and your computer's settings.

Solution:

  • The Internet is congested.
  • Try playing the video later.
  • Your connection to the Internet is slow or not functioning properly.
  • Upgrade to a fast connection or contact your Internet service provider.
  • You are using an old version of Windows Media Player. Download and install the latest version.




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Jul 9, 2008