Guide to streaming media

Guide to Streaming Media

What is streamed media?
Streamed media is video or audio that is delivered to a personal computer via an Internet connection.  Streamed media can be accessed 24 hrs a day. There is no limit to the number of times something may be viewed or listened to. Media streamed by NUL is not downloaded to your computer.

What can be streamed?
Any video that can be played from VHS cassette, DVD, DV tape, as well as audio in the form of CD, cassette tape, etc. can be streamed. This service is only available to members of the Northwestern community.

How does the process start?
To request a streamed video, use the online form (Northwestern faculty only) found on the Digital Collections site. For music requests, there is an online form (Northwestern faculty only) that will go directly to the Music Library. To stream personal titles, bring your media to the Digital Collections Drop-off Window, located on the 2nd floor of the east tower of the library. We are open from 8:30am to 5pm, M-F.  

How long do requests take?
You should allow 1 week per video or audio request, though deadlines increase with the more titles you submit.  If you plan to submit more than 10 titles in a quarter, the list should be submitted as soon as possible before the quarter. The beginning of every quarter is always the busiest time since we serve the entire university, Medical and Law Schools included.

What is needed to consume streamed media?
At the minimum, an Internet connection with at least 333kbps (DSL, cable, etc.) and a computer with Real Player (free to download) installed are required to access streamed media.

Are there limitations or problems that might arise?
Not all “high speed” connections are equal. The actual feed to your computer may vary depending on how many other subscribers are using the bandwidth from your provider at any given moment . This can cause the video to play erratically, freeze, or disrupt service altogether. Older computers may also struggle to process the feed, resulting in inconsistent play. If students are experiencing trouble watching streaming video they should first visit our Real Media troubleshooting page to make sure that their computer settings are correct before submitting a report. There are instructions on this page for both Mac and PC users.

If I make a streaming request, how will I receive the streamed media?
Digital Collections staff insert the links into the specified BlackBoard course site directly for all non-public video. DC staff will email you links to public streamed content.