Station FAQ

Subscribing to Programs (Updated 03/07/07)

Q: What is the mechanism for receiving programming in the ContentDepot?

A: In the ContentDepot, every station subscribes to the programs it needs. For live programs, the subscription process includes assigning the specific decoder port to which the audio will be routed. Once a subscription is established, the station will receive every episode of a program as it is transmitted. You will also receive promos, rundowns, and web modules (if provided by the producer) as part of the subscription package.

Q: Can I assign a live program to more than one output?

A: A station may assign the same feed to a second port on a different decoder (maximum of two ports) for backup purposes or to service additional network feeds.

Q: Can I stack up adjacent programs on the same output?

A: Adjacent programs can be assigned to the same decoder port back-to-back. The major producing networks such as American Public Media, PRI, and NPR have been reviewing their programs to include a five-second silence at the end of a program to accommodate program switching. However, we do NOT recommend that you try to "hot switch" back and forth between a program and insertions on the same decoder and port (e.g., from a program to a newscast or from Morning Edition to Marketplace).

We encourage you to map out your live program decoder assignments.

Q: How do I subscribe to programs that are delivered in both live and file formats?

The ContentDepot has the capability of recording a live stream and redistributing the program as a file. The program will be segmented around any cues or contact closures in the program stream. The use of this feature is at a program producer's option. A program that is live with subsequent file is treated as a package. Therefore, you would need to subscribe to the live program (and thereby assign a decoder and port) to receive the live program in order to also get the files.

Q: How is breaking news handled in a subscription model?

A: Stations that wish to receive Breaking News/Special Events Coverage in the ContentDepot at any time and without manual intervention will need to dedicate a decoder and port. NPR has established an NPR Special Events Coverage/Breaking News program to which your station must subscribe if you intend to take breaking news. In working with NPR, this is the most flexible solution that will require the least amount of station "real-time" activities. More information about breaking news is available.