Downloading Files

Downloading files is a basic function of the Internet. There are many types of files that can bee downloaded from the Web. On this page, we will discuss downloading MP3 files.

MP3 Files

Thirty-second MP3 sound files are usually available in a 320 format (highest quality) and a 160 format (next highest quality). Downloading 160 takes less time with a minimum loss of fidelity. However, if you have a very fast Internet connection, we recommend you download the 320 version to experience the better sample.This MP3 format, however, requires that:

A. You have an MP3 player installed on your computer, and

B. You configure your browser to use it.

1. To obtain an MP3 player, please go to mp3.com where you will find a list of players for Windows and Macintosh computers as well as instructions for downloading.

For Windows users, WinAmp is a good choice. It is free at mp3.com and also available at www.winamp.com.

For Macintosh users, SoundApp PPC is an excellent freeware player.

Incidentally, having an MP3 player will open up a great many other Internet audio resources for you.

2. Once you have downloaded and installed an MP3 player, you will need to configure your browser to use it when it encounters an MP3 file. You should go to wherever you choose for your browser the applications that open various file types. Different browsers will have different ways of doing this. In Netscape, you go to "Edit" menu and select "Preferences." In the window that opens up, choose -- under "Navigator" -- "Applications." Your browser, or your version of Netscape, may, however, differ.

Here are a couple screen shots of windows for installing your MP3 player. The first is for Netscape Navigator 4 for Windows 95:

If you are using a Macintosh, in Netscape Navigator go to the "Options" menu, General Preferences, Helpers. Double-click on audio/mpeg. When properly configured, it looks like this:

In general, where your browser lists the applications it uses with various file types, tell it to use the player you have just installed with files of this type: audio/mpeg or mp3 or mpeg.

To follow these instructions more easily, you may wish to print this page.