We were lucky enough to have Jon Stethridge, the MD of Unique Media with us today to teach us about streaming media. His company does work for clients such as HP and NTL, and his work has taken him round the world (although his claims of being "bored" with constantly flying to the USA did not wash).

We were shown the difference between a progressive download (where the file is played while it is being is downloaded), and streaming video/audio (where the images are shown as they reach the computer, and no file is kept in the cache).

We also discovered the various technologies of delivering streaming media, and the pros and cons of each approach.

To round off the day, Jon had brought in one of his streaming media PCs (packed in an impressive looking flight case) and we got to set up and partake in our own webcast. This was surprisingly straightforward, and fun.

Jon, in his infinite generosity, has given us streaming accounts with his company for two years, free of charge! Coming Soon: MeiTV.com.