[iOta]

I'm unable, in OS 10.2.8, to view either Flash or Windows Media files smoothly, even though I have a broadband connection. It doesn't seem to matter which browser I use - Safari, Explorer, Firefox all have this problem. With Flash, the play head outruns the buffering, so the movie stops and has to wait for the buffer to catch up. With Windows Media files, I get an error maessage telling me I need a plug-in. I'm using Flash 7 and the most recent WMV. Why does this happen?

[Big Mac]

I have never, ever had a problem with flash, even on a slow computer and a slow connection. WMV, on the other hand, sucks, and I simply avoid it.

[osxrules]

I agree with Big Mac, I've never really had a problem with flash. I also get the rebuffering with broadband but I only have a 256kbps. Depending on the quality of the movie, you can expect it quite often unless you have a really good connection.

To avoid the buffering, I choose the connection below mine - i.e. the 56k stream. If I need the quality, I just wait until the movie has loaded. Nowadays I just download to my hard disk when possible.

To reiterate, Windows Media sux big time. I also just avoid it.

[Judge_Fire]

Have you looked at the buffering preferences in Windows Media Player? I needed to set mine manually to buffer 10 sec or so, but after that it's been okish.

(I just had to see Conan and Bill )

J