Downloads
Downloading Files
Click on the Downloads tab to view all files that are available for download. The most recently released issues of the Watchtower and Awake! magazines display by default. If audio recordings are available for download in the language you have selected for the Web site, magazines for that language are listed. Otherwise, English magazines are listed.
Basic Instructions for Downloading Files: Using the menu and search options available, locate the file you want to download. Click on the link for the file format you want and select “Save.” Select the location where you want to save the file.
File Formats
What are ZIP files?
The ZIP file format is a way of compressing and archiving one or more files into a single file for easy storage or transport. ZIP files can be decompressed, or unzipped, either by software included in the computer operating system or by a separate program.
What are PDF files?
Portable Document Format (PDF) is a file format created by Adobe Systems. It preserves the layout and formatting of documents as intended by the publisher. It is a proprietary format that requires a PDF reader in order to view or print the files. Adobe Reader software is available as a free download from www.adobe.com. It supports most computer operating systems. Also, some popular electronic reading devices such as Kindle and the Sony Reader support the display of PDF files. Visit the Adobe Web site for more information on Adobe Reader software and PDF files.
What are MP3 and AAC files?
MP3 and AAC formats are two popular standards used for encoding compressed audio files. The AAC format is a successor to MP3 and is best supported by Apple products such as iTunes and iPod. To listen to an MP3 or AAC encoded audio file you need equipment that is able to play it.
MP3: The MP3 audio format is a popular format designed to reduce the amount of data needed to represent an audio recording. This format can be played on most computers and portable listening devices, sometimes called MP3 players. Some home and car audio systems can also play MP3 files.
AAC: The file extension of AAC encoded files varies to indicate the type of data the file contains. For example, the M4A file extension indicates that the AAC encoded file is audio (rather than video) and contains no bookmarks. Many popular players can play M4A files. The M4B file extension can be applied to any AAC encoded file that is bookmarkable. However, to be more compatible with iTunes and iPods, the M4B files on this Web site are Protected AAC format. This format can be played by iPods, iTunes, QuickTime, and other computer software programs supporting the Protected AAC format. The M4B file extension indicates to iTunes and iPods that the file is a valid audiobook. Protected AAC formatted files cannot be converted to other audio formats.
| Feature | MP3 Format | AAC Format |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | Most computers and portable listening devices support MP3 format. Some car audio systems also play MP3 files | A number of portable listening devices support AAC format. However, protected AAC format (M4B) is best supported by Apple products such as iTunes and iPod. Other players may be able to play M4B files but do not support advanced features like embedded images and bookmarks. |
| File Size | MP3 files are fairly small, but for the same amount of information, AAC files tend to be smaller while maintaining or improving sound quality. Larger publications published on this site are often divided by chapter or article into individual MP3 files. | For the same amount of information, AAC files are often smaller than MP3 and may have slightly better sound quality. Many of the publications on this site are provided as single M4B files. Bookmarks are used to divide publications by chapter or article. |
| Bookmarks | There is no support for embedded bookmarks. | Embedded bookmarks are included, but not all players support this feature. Consult your player’s documentation for more information. |
| Images | Embedded images may be included, but not all players support this feature. Consult your player’s documentation for more information. | Embedded images are included, but not all players support this feature. Consult your player’s documentation for more information. |
| Meta Data | MP3 files contain meta data, such as the article or chapter title, in ID3 tags. ID3 tags are readable by most MP3 players. | Meta data is embedded in a proprietary format which can be displayed by some players but not by others. |
What are WMV and M4V files?
WMV and M4V formats are two popular standards used for encoding compressed video files. Each format requires a software program or device that is equipped to play the video.
WMV: The WMV video format was developed by Microsoft. It can be played on most computers using software programs such as Windows Media Player, RealPlayer, and other multimedia players that support WMV files. A wide variety of portable video players also support WMV files.
M4V: The file extension M4V (iTunes video) is used by Apple to indicate the file encoding is MPEG-4 with audio and video. This format can be played by iTunes and QuickTime Player as well as by devices such as iPod and PlayStation. Generally, M4V files are smaller than WMV files but have better video and sound quality.
What is an RSS Feed? What is a Podcast?
RSS feeds are a way of distributing almost any type of syndicated Web content. Feeds can be subscribed to using a variety of programs called feed readers or aggregators. A podcast is an audio or video file which is syndicated via an RSS feed. Podcast files can be downloaded and then played on a computer or a portable device such as an iPod or MP3 player. You can select which feed or podcast you want to subscribe to and you can also unsubscribe at any time.
While all the files available for podcasting on this Web site can also be manually downloaded, the advantage of subscribing to a podcast is that your podcasting software will automatically download newly-posted content for you.
How to Subscribe to a Podcast
The Subscribe to Podcast link opens a new browser window containing the options available for podcast subscriptions. Choose the Language and Magazine you wish to subscribe to. The correct podcast URL, or feed, displays for each available audio format. Copy the Podcast URL for the audio format you want and paste it into your podcasting software or online feed reader.
How to Subscribe to an RSS Feed
The Subscribe to RSS Feed link opens a new browser window containing the options available for feed subscriptions. Choose the Language you wish to subscribe to. The correct feed URL displays for each available format. Copy the RSS Feed URL for the file format you want and paste it into your RSS feed reader.
Tip: To quickly copy the feed URL, right-mouse click on the POD or feed icon and choose “Copy Shortcut” or “Copy link location” from the menu that displays.
One-click Links: The links in this column automatically prompt the selected application to create a feed subscription for the format you select. For example, in the case of a podcast, if you have the iTunes program installed, clicking a One-click iTunes link will prompt your copy of iTunes to create a podcast subscription for the magazine you selected.