Webcast Prerequisites

Equipment and software

System requirements
A computer with 16+ MB RAM and a sound card with speakers or headphones is needed to view and listen to a webcast.  Windows Media Player, a streaming player software,  and a web browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape is also required.  Internet Explorer 5.5 or higher and Media Player 9.0 is preferred.

Internet connection
DSL or Cable (broadband) connections work well.  For dial-up, modems need to be a minimum of 56 kbps.

Viewing requirements
Webcasts can be viewed on computer monitors or projected onto larger screens or walls for larger audiences.  Please ensure the system projecting the webcast is able to also project the audio portion of the webcast.

Download and install a streaming player
If Windows Media Player must be installed or upgraded, please visit Microsoft's Web site (exit DHS) for assistance.  

Testing the system and sound

Users should test the systems before their webcast presentation is to begin, to ensure system requirements are met and the webcast works appropriately.

Streaming video and audio generally take 15 to 30 seconds to load and buffer if using a cable modem or DSL connection.  Dial-up can take up to five minutes.  Please be patient as Windows Media Players starts to download the video stream from our server.  Also, please note that the audio portion may begin 5 to 10 seconds before the video.

Last Revised: February 18, 2013