Video and Audio Streaming Test
It's a good idea to test your media player (Windows Media Player) for video streaming compatibility.
How to check your version of Windows Media Player :
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Open Media Player. It is usually found on the Start>Programs>Accessories>Entertainment menu.
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On the toolbar, click Help>About Windows Media Player .
NOTE: If you can’t see your menu bar, click the double-headed arrow shown here.
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Note the first two numbers of the version shown, for example 7.1
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If you have version 9 or above, proceed to the test .
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If you do not have version 9 or above, you'll need to update.
Update your Windows Media Player:
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Click the link below that corresponds to your current version:
Windows Media Player 6.4
Windows Media Player 7.1, XP, 8.0
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Download the installation file. We suggest saving to the “My Documents” folder or, if you are on a network, save to a shared folder so others don't have to download, too.
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Close your Media Player and double-click the installation file:
These video samples will help you test your Windows Media Player and Internet connection.
- Many KSRE videos are available at Variable Band rate Connections (VBC) that is compatible with broadband connections (T1 at 524 kbps (kilobytes per second) and DSL cable 282kbps & 109kbps, with adequate quality) and dial-up connections at 43 kbps.
- Some events will broadcast audio only for dial-up connection.
Video of TechBytes file test, this start is a graphic and no sound, scroll to 2 minutes into the presentation for video and audio. Video is playable at 542, 282, 109, and 43kbps with WMP versions 8, 9, and 10.
Video of wheat harvest test file. Video plays at 249kbps with WMP version 9.
Audio only file - ideal for dial-up connections.
Trouble Shooting:
- Problem - Can not get connected to Live Video. If you have received the following Windows Media Player error message; (Windows Media Player cannot play the file because a network error occurred. The server might not be available. Verify that you are connected to the network and that your proxy settings are correct.)
Answer - This is a link to a Live Video source that may be live only at a specific time. Try the video link at the designated time.
- Problem - Video is choppy, freezes and cuts out.
Answer - Many KSRE live and recorded videos are available at different band rates. Choose a rate that is compatible with your Internet connection. For example, all TechBytes videos are produced at the variable rates of 542 kbps (for fast T1 connections), 282 & 109kbps (for cable connections), and 43kbps (for dial-up connections). If problems persist, refresh your browser window and re-try the video link. There may be other problems associated with busy Internet traffic out of your office, through your ISP, or through Kansas.
- Problem - quality of the video is poor or too small.
Answer - Video quality over the Internet is mediocre at best. The faster the connection, the better the quality and size of the video. For example, at the fast 542kbps rate, the video size is 640x480pixel size, 30 frames per second. At 43kbps, the video is shown at 160x120 and at a frame rate of 5 frames per second.
- Problem - The video will not play at all.
Answer - You must have Windows Media Player to view the video. Check what version you currently are using (see below for instructions). Current video can be viewed using WMP versions 8, 9, and 10. Upgrade to the latest version 10. If you have a computer with Windows 98, see below for upgrading instructions.
