A lot of industry jargon and techno-speak swirls around the topic of Internet video. StreamAhead can help you make sense of it all, beginning with these FAQs. If the answer you are looking for isn't on this page, email your question and we'll try to answer it as quickly as possible.
What is Webcasting?
Webcasting is real-time transmission ("streaming") of audio and audiovisual works in digital formats over the Internet. Webcasting became possible in mid-1995 when Progressive Networks, Inc. (now RealNetworks, Inc.) introduced RealPlayer streaming software. Since 1995 a number of new streaming products have been introduced, and the quality of music and video over the Web has improved dramatically.
Today there are hundreds of companies webcasting millions of streams to listeners and viewers worldwide. Every week webcasters stream thousands of hours of original content; traditional broadcasters simulcast thousands of hours of broadcast content; and many companies offer archived content that enables consumers to hear or view programming that they missed when it was performed live over or Web-based media.
What is a streaming media server?
A streaming media server is similar to a Web server in that it takes requests from users and sends files in return. However, a streaming server is different in that it enables interactivity, such as being able to fast forward, rewind, and pause the media. In short, streaming servers are built to deliver media files, unlike Web servers. Many ISPs can host your streaming media files, but they don't all support every major media type (Windows Media, RealOne and QuickTime). StreamAhead has partnerships with leading streaming media providers so that your Internet video marketing initiatives are seamless and turn-key.
What is encoding?
Encoding is the process of compressing a video or audio file to a size small enough to play over the Internet. Encoding makes it possible for you to begin playing the video or audio file as it downloads rather than after it downloads.
Do I need a browser plug-in to watch Internet videos?
Media player applications are the most popular way to watch videos or listen to music online. However, videos can be played in a Web browser without using a player, if they are encoded using one of the many Java-based tools available in the market.
What is IEEE 1394?
IEEE 1394 is a cable used to connect a camcorder to a computer. IEEE stands for Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers, which sets the standards for electrical and electronic devices and systems. This interface (also referred to as i-link and Firewire) enables video to begin and remain digital from camcorder to computer without any degradation.
