Webcast Help
Directions
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions pertaining to the webcast functionality offered by our website. We currently use Flash technology to compress our videos. (This is the same compression that popular sites like YouTube use.)

1. Where can I view the live webcast?
Our programs begin streaming one hour before the start time of the event.  They can be viewed on our main page at www.pritzkermilitarylibrary.org or on the event page as well.  For a list of programs and times, please go to www.pritzkermilitarylibrary.org/events/

2. Where can I download the Flash video player?
You can download the Flash video player from the following URL: get.adobe.com/flashplayer/otherversions/

3. Where can I get the media player to view the webcasts?
You must have the Flash player installed to watch a live webcast. However, some of our past events are still encoded in Real Player, QuickTime, and Windows Media. You can download either of the players at the URLs below:

4. What are the recommended system requirements for viewing a webcast?

  • Macromedia Flash Player 7.0+ plug-in
  • Windows 2000 or higher with latest updates installed
  • Mac OS X 10.3 or higher
  • Firefox 1.1+, Internet Explorer 5.0+, or Safari 1.0+
  • Broadband connection with 500+ Kbps
Troubleshooting
Many factors can interrupt a live video stream. Please try these following steps to troubleshoot any issues you may be having with our webcasts.
  • Close and relaunch your browser window, or reboot your computer to clear your machine's memory cache.
  • Close any other programs, applications, or browser windows that may also be running on your computer at the time of the webcast.
  • Streaming video playback is extremely CPU (computer system) intensive. If your computer system usage is running at or above about 75 percent, you will likely encounter issues with sluggish or choppy playback. In Microsoft Windows, you can check your computer system usage by hitting Ctrl+Alt+Del and then selecting Task Manager. CPU usage percentages are listed under the Performance tab. You can reduce your computer system usage by closing other programs and background services which you have running at the same time as your web browser.
  • Your ability to watch the live webcast is also largely determined by the speed and reliability of your Internet connection. You will need to be able to download at a minimum of 250 kbps (kilobytes per second) to view the content without problems. If you'd like to test your bandwidth, use this site: www.speedtest.net. (Note: This site is not provided by, monitored by or maintained by the Pritzker Military Library. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information contained on this website.)
  • Some antivirus programs, Internet security applications and/or content filters may interfere with the media player's ability to provide uninterrupted playback by preventing timely delivery of the video content. Temporarily disabling these types of programs while viewing our website content may afford you a more enjoyable playback experience. For information on how to disable a specific program, please contact the software vendor.
  • You may also have difficult with our webcasts if your web browser’s Flash plug-in needs an update. To check whether your Flash plug-in is up to date, visit www.adobe.com/shockwave/welcome. Once you are there, ignore the Adobe Shockwave Player (the upper box). Our concern is with the Adobe Flash Player (the lower box). If your Flash plug-in is current, you should be able to view the graphics below the line that says Adobe Flash Player. If not, within the box, you should see a message that reads "Click here to download plugin." Click there and follow the instructions to update your Flash plug-in.
Alternate Methods
We also offer several alternate methods of viewing our programs.
  • Each webcast will be archived in its entirety and will be made available on pritzkermilitarylibrary.org the day after each live webcast.
  • DVDs of each event can be purchased for a donation of $20 or more.
  • Audio podcasts will be made available for download on www.pritzkermilitarylibrary.org/podcasts and iTunes on the day after each live webcast.
  • Chicago area viewers can watch our programming on WYCC-TV/PBS Channel 20 on Fridays at 3:30pm. Our schedule can be viewed at www.pritzkermilitarylibrary.org/television.
  • Go to your local public library and ask your librarian for the specific DVD at the Pritzker Military Library. Through the Interlibrary Loan (ILL) system, it’ll be sent to your local library for you to enjoy.