Description
     AP's new Internet delivered audio services allow subscribers to log onto our Internet site, conduct a series of searches, preview specific cuts via RealAudio and then download the high quality, compressed MPEG files. These digital files may then be utilized by your news or show producers. This new audio on demand approach allows you to retrieve only those cuts you want to use and is high quality and easy to use.
     The equipment required to download and manage these audio files is all standard and available at most retail computer outlets. You may already have everything you need. If not, it is readily available for a very modest investment.

Technical Considerations

	Computer	A Pentium class computer is required with a minimum CPU speed of 133 MHz (200 MHz+ recommended) and a minimum of 16 MB of RAM (32 MB recommended).
	Operating System	Windows 95, Windows NT or Windows 98 will all support AP's new technology. Mac-based equipment will also support this technology providing you install an MPEG player compatible with Mac.
	Hard Drive Space	This depends entirely on how much storage you intend to maintain. Remember that although MPEG files are compressed, they do require a good deal of hard drive space. We recommend that you allocate a minimum of 100 MB of space for routine storage of audio files.
	Sound Card	A Windows or Mac compatible sound card is required.
	Modem	The minimum modem speed recommended is 28.8. A 56k or ISDN line is recommended.
	Internet Browser	Netscape Navigator 3.0 or higher or Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 or higher. AOL's own browser will not work.
	Internet Service Provider	While there are a multitude of ISPs available, we urge you to choose one with the most direct and reliable Internet connection. In addition, proprietary systems such as AOL or CompuServe result in a substantially slower downloading of audio files.
	MPEG Player	AP will provide you with an excellent MPEG player, which will play SoundBank audio files. This is provided to SoundBank affiliates at no additional cost.
	Digital Audio Editor	AP will provide you with SoundDesk, a simple, easy-to-use, Windows based digital editor and cart rack. This software may be quickly installed on your computer. It will include an invisible converter, which will allow you to convert your MPEG compressed files to WAV files for editing purposes.
	Minimum Versus Recommended	We have indicated both the absolute minimum and our recommended technical specifications. While the minimum will get you started, you will find a significant improvement in performance with more memory and higher speed modems.