Extra Information

Niagara SCX User Guide
ViewCast 97
Appendix A: An Introduction to
Streaming Media
Media that users read, hear or view represents streaming media. Streaming refers more to the
property of the delivery system than the media itself. The distinction usually applies to media
distributed over computer networks. Most other delivery systems represent either inherently
streaming (radio, television, Internet TV) or inherently non-streaming (books, video cassettes, audio
CDs).
The ViewCast Niagara encoders deliver streaming audio and video media over an IP network.
Streaming Infrastructure
Before setting up your new Niagara encoder, you should understand live streaming video – from
video capture to streaming video playback.
Many applications exist that allow you to capture video into the computer environment. These range
from DVD authoring to live Web casting. Regardless of the final use of the video, use Table 26 to
categori
ze all into three main workflow processes:
Table 26. Video Workflow Processes
Process Description
Single video/session
capture
• Example: one-off file capture for non-real time
delivery.
• Typically allow you to process and/or author the
captured file into its final form for delivery.
Batch video/session
capture
• Examples: archiving, scheduling and storing.
• Multiple source content to digitalize.
• Device control requirement for unattended source.
• Ability to schedule sessions required to capture
timed events.
Live video capture,
processing and delivery
• Example: Webcast
• Can be single or multiple sources.
• Live event at a specific time.
• Can be a remote or local capture.
• Final content delivery in real time to viewers.