Help Page: File Formats Explained (4:00)
This 4 minute video explains accessible file formats such as RTF, MP3, BRL, and DAISY and how to download them.
Transcript: File Formats
Presenter: Accessible File Formats.
RTF (Rich Text Format) is a versatile file format that allows the inclusion of text formatting, images, and other media. Unlike plain text files, RTF files can store rich content such as: Font styles bold, italic, underline. Text alignment and paragraph formatting. Images and hyperlinks.
RTF files are widely supported across different platforms and applications. They offer a more accessible option for readers who may need text-based content with accessible formatting.
MP3 is a widely used audio format that provides compressed, high-quality sound files, which are commonly used for accessible content such as audiobooks and podcasts. MP3 audio files are often used to deliver spoken word content to people with visual or print disabilities. These files can be played on various devices like smartphones, computers, and specialized talking book players like Victor Readers and NLS digital talking book players. These devices provide easy navigational features, such as jumping through books, chapters, bookmarks or adjusting the playback speed.
BRL and BRF are file formats that represent Braille text in electronic form. Grade 1 (or uncontracted) braille uses every letter of a word to write each sentence. Grade 2 (or contracted) braille is like shorthand and uses one letter or a combination of letters to mean an entire word.
BRL and BRF files are often used for documents that are to be printed with a Braille embosser or read using Braille readers and refreshable Braille displays. These files can be read aloud using braille-to-speech software.
DAISY is an accessible file format designed to help navigate digital content. It combines audio, text, and XML to offer a flexible, interactive reading experience.
The DAISY format allows readers to navigate content by chapter, section, subsection, or page, and customise their way of reading.
Users can listen to the content via text-to-speech or use a refreshable Braille display for tactile reading, as well as use specialized DAISY players such as the NLS digital talking book player or Victor Readers.
How to Download Accessible Files from jw.org:
Open your web browser and go to www.jw.org.
On the homepage, find and click on the "Library" menu.
Choose a Publication and click to open. Find Download Options and click to open. Formats include RTF, DAISY, BRL, PDF, EPUB, JWPUB. For audio MP3, this is located under download options as a separate tab.
To download the file, click on the download link for the format you prefer for example, MP3, RTF, DAISY.
The file will automatically download to your device.
Once the file is downloaded, you can open it using the appropriate software or device:
MP3 files can be played using any audio player.
RTF files can be opened with a word processor like Microsoft Word.
BRL files can be read on Braille displays or printed with a Braille embosser.
DAISY files can be played on compatible DAISY players or software such as Dolphin EasyReader.