RSS or Really Simple Syndication is a useful tool for keeping updated on OCRIRadio.com news and audio content. RSS makes use of a code called XML that constantly scans the content of a website for updates and then broadcasts those updates to all subscribers through a feed.

RSS feeds are typically used with news sites, podcasts or blogs, although any website can use them to disseminate information. When an update is sent out, it includes a headline and a small amount of text, either a summary or the lead-in to the larger story. You will need to click a link to read more.

In order to receive RSS feeds, you must have an aggregator or newsreader, or a browser that supports RSS. There are a number of aggregators online, many of them free, so with a little bit of searching, you should be able to find an interface that appeals to you. In addition to being available on your computer, RSS feeds can also be read on PDAs and cell phones.

With a newsreader software or an RSS-friendly browser, click on the RSS button and the feed will be available as soon as you’ve added it, and your next update will arrive automatically, as soon as it's available online. If you ever decide that you don’t want to receive updates anymore, you simply delete the feed or URL from your newsreader.

RSS feeds are preferable to newsletter updates because they are instantaneous. You don’t have to wait until a designated day of the week to receive your summary. They will also never be held up by a spam filter. RSS is a great way to stay on top of the latest OCRI podcasts and technology news.

A blog is an online journal that usually allows for comments. OCRI blogs present entries from OCRI staff, members and special guests. They can be viewed online or subscribed to (see above).

A podcast is a special feed which will automatically download new audio recordings to your computer as they become available. These recordings can then be placed on your iPod or other portable music player to listen to anytime.

To listen to OCRIRadio.com’s podcast, you’ll need a computer or stand-alone mp3 player. You can download the latest version of iTunes from www.itunes.com. Once you have iTunes installed on your computer, follow the step-by-step instructions below.

To listen to the OCRIRadio.com podcast, simply click on its link and it should open up on your computer, through your default mp3 player.

To download our podcasts, right click (control-click on a single-button mouse) on the (MP3) link beside the podcast. Select "save file" or "download file" and the podcast will download to your hard drive.

To subscribe to OCRIRadio.com, click the RSS Subscribe button beside the podcast link. The subscription will feed to your browser (if it’s RSS enabled) or RSS Reader (NetNewsWire).

1. Open iTunes (in Windows or Mac) and go to the Music Store.
2. In the search field in the upper right of the program, type in “OCRI".
3. Click the “Subscribe” button beside the description of the podcast in the main iTunes window.