The Features of MP3 Format and MP3 Player
The Format
MP3 is an audio format. Files in MP3 format have smaller sizes than other audio files. This format was created by the developers from the Frauhofen Institut in Germany in 1980's. First, the format was patented in Germany and later the United States granted a patent for it.
Ever since MP3 was launched it started gaining enormous success, becoming one of the most popular audio formats. When MP3 was developed, its creators introduced it into the web for free use. In such a way, they made it possible for anyone to create decoders and players for it. Several innovators were able to develop players, and additional software, which spread up very quickly throughout the internet.
Because MP3 files are small in size, they can be easily downloaded and uploaded. Several major record labels consider MP3 to be a piracy theft. There were some attempts to shut down electronic businesses that offered a wide gamma of MP3 file for free. The biggest shut down concerned Napster.
Webcasting made MP3 format even more popular. MP3 files are not stored on the user's hard drive; they are broadcasted just like the good old radio.
The Player
With the help of an MP3 player, one can listen to a variety of songs in this particular format. Using an MP3 player the user can easily choose his or her own playlist and carry hundreds, even thousands of songs within a single small device.
The MP3 player represents a data storage device. It includes specific software application that is used to transfer files to the player. One can use the MP3 player for copying music from CDs or Internet and then organize a custom playlist.
The MP3 player encompasses the use of many technologies. These technologies, when being apart, are not revolutionary but their combination turns into a popular consumer product. The basic components of the player are:
- Data and audio ports;
- Memory;
- Micro- and Digital Signal processor;
- Display;
- Power supplier;
- Amplifier.
The brains of the MP3 players are represented through its microprocessor. Its job is to control the input and display data concerning the current song. The player's amplifier increases the strength of the signal and then transmits it to the audio port. When headphones are connected to the audio port the user can start listening music.
The MP3 player can also be plugged into computer's ports. These can be whether USB, parallel or FireWire ports. This allows transferring data from one device (computer) to another (player). The files are stored within the memory of the player. There are several types of memory:
- Internal Flash
- Compact and SmartFlash cards;
- Memory Stick;
- Internal micro drive.
Some consider MP3 format useful others, however, hazardous, but one thing is for sure – MP3 is revolutionary and its popularity will increase with every new file downloaded from the web and every new MP3 player bought.