# 3DO DataStreamer Overview

The 3DO DataStreamer is a set of data preparation tools and a run-time library of C code that allow retrieval and playback of time-based data. Typical applications include:

- Playing back a software-compressed movie and its sound track.
- Synchronizing a cel animation to a sound track.
- Loading application-specific data while a different audio-visual presentation is running.

Click on one of the topics below to select it:

- Why use the DataStreamer?
- Preparing a streaming application

## For more information

The manpages for 3DO DataStreamer library calls are in 3DO DataStreamer Functions.

Data streaming tools are discussed in detail in 3DO DataStreamer Tools.

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