1. What type of audiovisual materials can be requested to be put on the VOD server?

Teaching staff can only request for video / LD / VCD titles that are already in our library collection to be digitized and put on the server. These videos must be for teaching purposes on campus, and should be used for at least one semester to justify the high costs involved.

2. What is the maximum length of time that the video titles I requested will be kept on the server?

The maximum period that a vendor / producer will grant is one year, but permission can be renewed annually on request.

3. How much time do I need to give the Library to put my requests on the server?

The library needs at least 3 weeks to negotiate for copyright and broadcasting rights with the vendor or producer of the titles requested.

4. How do I submit my requests for a title to be put on the server?

Please use the form "Request for titles" on this homepage to submit your requests.

5. Will any cost be incurred by my school for this service?

The service is free during this trial period. However, when the system is fully functional, we will inform the schools should there be any charges involved.

6. Why can't I playback any videos  from home?

Digitised video playback, like the relatively high quality ones we have here on the VOD system requires very high bandwidth before it can be played back. If we allow it to be played back on the normal Internet network, the extremely high traffic generated will slow down the network tremendously. As such, video playback for entire videos is restricted to a special high bandwidth network.

Putting it in the special network also makes licensing with the production companies easier as only a finite number of places (LTs and school General Offices) can play the videos.

Last update: 10 Jun 2003