RSS Tutorial

What is RSS?
RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication and it allows you to have a web site's content automatically downloaded to your computer or MP3 player.

Why Should I Care?
The real benefit of using RSS is that the web comes to you. Instead of checking regularly for new content from a favorite web site you can simply subscribe to the site's RSS feed and thereby receive the updated content automatically. This content can include text, photos and even audio files that will play on your computer or MP3 player. RSS feeds that link to MP3s audio are typically called "Podcasts."

How Can I Start To Use RSS?
If you want to take advantage of RSS feeds from web sites you will need to download a piece of software called an aggregator (also called news readers and feed readers). Many are available as web-based applications. The aggregator organizes and downloads all of your RSS feeds from different web sites. These feeds are called channels (think of TV channels). When you select a channel you will see all of the newest messages from that site.

Where Can I Find an RSS Aggregator?
Do a Google search for "Best RSS Aggregator" or "RSS Feed Reader" and you will find many to choose from. If all you want to do is listen to Podcasts (MP3s) then iTunes is a top choice.

Internet Explorer 7 includes an RSS feeds tool, as does Firefox. Microsoft's Outlook 2007 includes a RSS feeds tool, and Apple's iTunes (an excellent MP3 player) includes the ability to browse a directory of Podcasts and subscribe to a podcast.

How Can I Tell if a Site has an RSS Feed?
The standard symbols for RSS are or . If you find these buttons on a site you can be sure they have an RSS feed. On this site we use the symbol . Once you find the RSS feed button just click on it to access the feed, then follow the instructions that came with your aggregator to add the RSS feed as a channel.

Does the Banjo Hangout have RSS Feeds/Podcasts?
Yes. We've just launched a Podcast based on the MP3s that Hangout members have uploaded. We plan on adding additional feeds (to forum topics, blogs, etc) in the near future. Click the RSS icon at the bottom-left of any page of the site to visit the RSS page, which will list available feeds.