Return to BTOP Comments Page

NOTE: If you are using Internet Explorer 6.0 or earlier, you will need to obtain an ATOM reader to view the feeds.

Subscribe to BTOP ATOM Feeds

Stay informed on the latest comments submitted to BTOP with the BTOP ATOM feed.

What Is ATOM

ATOM applies to a pair of related standards. The Atom Syndication Format is an XML language used for web feeds, while the Atom Publishing Protocol (AtomPub or APP) is a simple HTTP-based protocol for creating and updating web resources. It's an easy way for you to keep up with news and information that's important to you, and helps you avoid the conventional methods of browsing or searching for information on websites. Now the content you want can be delivered directly to you without cluttering your inbox with e-mail messages. This content is called a "feed." For more information, go to http://www.wikipedia.com/ATOM_(standard)

What Is an ATOM Reader?

An ATOM reader is a small software program that collects and displays ATOM feeds. It allows you to scan headlines from a number of news sources in a central location.

Where Can I Get an ATOM Reader?

Some browsers, such as the current versions of Internet Explorer, Firefox and Safari have built in ATOM readers. If you're using a browser that doesn't currently support ATOM there are a variety of ATOM readers available on the web; some are free to download and others are available for purchase.

How Do I Use ATOM Feeds?

The first step is to choose an ATOM reader. Each reader has a slightly different way of adding a new feed, also called a "channel." Follow the directions for your reader but, in most cases, here's how it works:

Click on the link or small XML button near the feed you want. For example, Click on the Subscribe link on the BTOP Comments page. You'll see a page displaying XML code.

From your web browser's address bar, copy the URL (web address). For example, the URL you would copy for BTOP page is: http://www.ntia.doc.gov/broadbandgrants/btopcomments.xml.

Paste that URL into the "Add New Channel" section of the reader. The ATOM feed will start to display and regularly update the headlines for you.