Gateway ID57HR, User Manual

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Software - 43
Playing downloaded files
Downloaded files may work with the media programs installed on your
computer, or may require specific programs. Files that include DRM
functions may only play in specific programs (e.g. iTunes, Windows Media
Player) or only on devices certified for use with the each type of file. Other
formats may require a specific audio or video
codec that may not have
been installed on your computer.
Codecs
A codec is software that is used to co mpress or dec ompress a digital
media file, such as a song or video. Windows Media Player and other
programs use codecs to play and create digital media files.
For example, when you rip a song from an audio CD to your computer, the
player uses the Windows Media Audio codec to compress the song into a
compact WMA file. When you play that WMA file (or any WMA file that
might be streamed from a Web site), the media player uses the Windows
Media Audio codec to decompress the file so the music can be played
through your speakers.
Why do I get a message that says my computer is missing a codec?
If you get a message that says that your computer is missing a codec, it
may be because you are using a file that was compressed using a codec
that Windows or the media player does not include by default. In many
cases, you can download and install the missing codec by clicking on the
Web Help button in the error message.
Please also see Windows
Help and Support for more information.