Operation Manual
Appendix A: An Introduction to Streaming Media
128 ViewCast
Main workflow processes
Media files can be quite large. For example, five minutes of uncompressed video requires almost
one Gigabyte of space. To prepare audio and video for streaming, the media needs to be
compressed to make the file size smaller. When a viewer requests the file, the video server
sends a compressed file in a steady stream. A streaming media player (such as the free Windows
Media Player) on the viewer’s computer or mobile device decompresses the file to play
automatically in real time. The viewer can jump to any location in the video or audio
presentation. Streaming media generally tries keep pace with the viewer’s connection speed to
reduce interruptions and stalling. Regardless of the final use of the video, this process can be
divided into three main workflow processes.
Process
Description
Single video/session capture
(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
(archiving, scheduling and
storage)
Multiple source content to digitalize.
Requires a scheduler to automate capture sessions
Live video capture, processing,
and delivery
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.
ViewCast Osprey cards have application in all three categories. With Osprey cards, you can pull
video directly into your computer to broadcast live, or to create a streaming media file directly
from your video camera.
ViewCast Niagara series encoders are designed primarily for the third category - live video
capture, processing and delivery. The Niagara streaming appliances have been designed from
the ground up to provide a highly reliable, preconfigured, plug-and-play solution that enables
users to quickly and easily transform and deliver premium quality standard- or high-definition
video to IP and mobile networks.