Site Tools
Video clip files - help page
Summary: Frequently asked questions about playing video clips on this site.
What software do I need to play this clip?
You'll need Windows Media Player version 7 or above.
Why is the clip in Windows Media Player format?
There are many other video players around but we've used Windows Media Player as it's on many users PCs already. It is also available free of charge to download from the Microsoft website if you don’t have it already.
- Download Windows Media Player 11 Series (for Windows XP)
- Download Windows Media Player 9 Series (for Windows 98 SE, Me, and 2000)
- Download installer for MacOs X
- Download installer for earlier versions of MacOS
Which link should I click on - low or high bandwidth?
Chose the low bandwidth version if you have a slow internet connection, an old PC or if the high bandwidth version of the clip keep stopping or plays in a jerky fashion. If you have a broadband or other high-speed internet connection, chose the high bandwidth version.
Why does the clip have both audio description and text captions?
The video has audio description so it is accessible to those with sight problems. The text captioning ensures help for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Why am I having problems playing the clip on my PC at work?
Your company may have security measures in place to stop employees downloading multimedia, especially streaming media like the high bandwidth version of the clip. Try the low bandwidth version and see if that works first. If you can play the clip at home but not at work, it's likely to be a security issue. You'll need to contact your IT department to see if they can help.
Why does the video appear jerky/refuse to play?
This can happen if you're on a slow connection or old PC or the server is especially busy. Some users may have problems using the high bandwidth version because the speed of their connection cannot handle the high quality streamed images. Try the low bandwidth version instead. This is a limitation of the internet, not of the way we've produced the video clip!
Why do you use JavaScript on this page?
We only use JavaScript when the functionality it supplies is duplicated in other ways (eg by server-side scripting). This is so users with browsers that don’t support JavaScript or who have it turned off can still use all the functionality of the site. JavaScript is used to break the window in which the video clip is played so that screen readers can identify and use the individual elements like the sound control box. If you don’t have JavaScript enabled, you can open another window and play it in your own media player.
I'm playing the clip in Windows Media Player, how can I see the subtitles?
In Media Player, go to the Play menu, select Captions/Subtitles and choose On if available or Matchstick Men.
I still have problems - what can I do?
Email webteam@rnib.org.uk giving us as much information as you can about the problem (eg operating system, browser version, access technology versions and any error messages you get). We'll do our best to help!
Content author: webteam@rnib.org.uk
Last updated: 01/07/2008 9:51
More info
Your stories
Claire's story - After graduating from university, Claire found it hard to find a job. She decided to do something to show employers that although she was blind she was still capable of doing a ‘normal’ job. "The time that I have spent volunteering with RNIB has helped my personal development. It has also allowed me to develop new skills which will benefit me in the work place." Claire's full story.
