The lines between these categories are becoming increasingly blurred. Single-channel video is increasingly being streamed directly from computer hard drives, and recent computer-based installations echo the characteristics of media installation. Some key attributes of computer-based artworks can include direct interactivity, network connectivity, and computability. These works often feature customized software, online elements, or interactive installation environments, among numerous other strategies employing computer-based technologies in significant and innovative ways. While these categories do indeed have specific characteristics and requirements, it is important to note that the Single-channel Video, Computer-based Arts and Installation sections of this Resource Guide contain information that is relevant to one another.

This is highly dependent on the work in question, and a number of considerations must be weighed. Among them are the artist's intent, physical space, dimensions, light levels, degree of interaction, and budget. It is of utmost importance that you work with the artist to determine what configuration such as monitor, projection or other devices will best support the work and its installation requirements. Visit Best Practices for more details on this topic.

In order to best gauge what input device to use, you need to evaluate the level of interaction. For some installations a simple touch screen will suffice; for others it is necessary to install a keyboard and mouse, or a game console or joystick. Once again it is important to be in contact with the artist to define the parameters for the work. Visit Best Practices for more details.

Not everyone will engage with interactive works to the same degree, due to issues of personality or comfort level with technology. Careful consideration of basic elements such as interface design and creating a comfortable viewing environment can help ensure that your audience will interact with a work as intended. Once again, this should be decided with the artist's input. For more details, visit Best Practices and the interview with Michael Connor.

Streaming media refers to media (video or audio) that is consumed (viewed or heard) while it is being delivered. Streaming allows a lengthy audio or video program to be transmitted over the Internet by transmitting a continuous signal in real time rather than downloading an entire clip at once. For example, most online radio is "streamed," whereas a podcast would not be considered streaming media as it is downloaded first and then consumed.

The amount of data contained in a native video or audio file can be large enough to make playing it, using it or downloading it impossible or impractical on any but a very fast computer with enormous storage. In order to remedy this condition, large files are compressed using algorithms, which eliminate data in a way that allows the picture/sound to be decompressed back to its original form without losing any of the original information (lossless compression). When the file needs to be made smaller, more information is removed, resulting in a file that can't fully reproduce the original picture/sound information (lossy compression). To use a compressed file it must be decompressed within the hardware or software. This procedure of compressing and decompressing data by using algorithms is called a codec.

All screening and reference copies should be returned to the artist, gallery or distributor after the exhibition, unless otherwise agreed to.