In the belief that "the spread of technological development and the attendant rapidly changing environment creates the necessity for multi-source feedback systems to maximize the alternatives available in dealing with global problems," the author shows how to participate in the process of alternate video. He offers detailed information about video equipment, videotape distribution, cable television franchises, and marketing opportunities. He discusses the essentials of video technique and format and details the experiences of the Santa Cruz Community Television Project. The Federal Communications Commission ruling calling for local origination for cable television he sees as an opportunity for people to communicate with each other about alternate life styles, as a source of programing for small groups not presently served by commercial television, and as an outlet for experimentation and creativity. A glossary and list of people and groups involved in alternate television are included. (JY)