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 RAM files.

RAM Files

Please note that the sound quality of RealAudio files (RAM files) is not nearly as good as the MP3 or WAV files. However, their file sizes are the smallest (about 84K) and take much less time to download. This is especially convenient if you have a dial-up Internet connection.

If you do not already have RealPlayer installed on your computer, you will first have to go to RealNetwork's Web site and download it.

Downloading Player

1. Click the link for their free RealPlayer and go to the appropriate RealPlayer version for your computer.

2. Enter the required information on the download page and click the Download button.

3. You should be presented with a list of locations from which to download RealPlayer. Choose a location nearest you as the network distance will be shorter and the download time will be shorter (hopefully).

4. Your browser may ask you where you would like to save the files on your computer. Choose a location you can easily find later on such as a folder called "Downloads." Give the new folder a name that you can remember.

5. Wait for your computer to download the files. This may take as long as 15 minutes, depending on your connection speed and the Internet's traffic speed.

Installing Player

1. The files you downloaded contain the installer file for RealPlayer as well as other important files. Double-click on the installer file's icon to start the installation process.

2. Follow the installation instructions.

3. RealPlayer should appear on your computer after the install has completed.

Trying a Selection

1. Click on a track selection.

2. RealPlayer should open (if it isn't open already) and begin buffering the selection. It will begin playback in a few seconds.

3. It is possible that another application will open that doesn't know what to do with the selection. If so, it is because the selection has the extension .ram, and your operating system has registered another application for files with that extension. You may either register RealPlayer to open .ram files and try the selection again (consult your operating system's documentation for instructions on registering file extensions with applications), or you may open the selection manually, as follows:

A. Download the .ram file, click the link, and instead of choosing to open it, choose to Save it (it is only abou 84K in size, and should download quickly).

B. Open RealPlayer (if it isn't open already) from the File menu by choosing Open File...

C. Locate and select the .ram file you just downloaded which RealPlayer will open and begin buffering; it will start to play in a few seconds.

Of course, there are other players that will play RAM files such as Windows Media Audio. See Downloading Software & Files for other choices.

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