Definition of Streaming Media
Streaming media technology enables the real-time or on demand distribution of audio, video and multimedia on the Internet. Streaming media is the simultaneous transfer of digital media (video, voice and data) so that it is received as a continuous real-time stream. Streamed data is transmitted by a server application and received and displayed in real-time by client applications. These applications can start displaying video or playing audio as soon as enough data has been received and stored in the receiving station’s buffer. A streamed file is simultaneously downloaded and viewed, but leaves behind no physical file on the viewer's machine.

On Demand Streaming Media
Video on demand (VOD) is a term used to describe video that can be viewed at the user's convenience, anytime they wish. In the streaming industry, a specialized technician encodes the original source video, creating a digital representation of the video - a streamable data file - which can then be stored in an archival hard disk for later retrieval and playback. Streaming VOD allows users to fit viewing into their schedule rather than forcing them to adjust their schedule around the availability of the video offering.

Live Streaming Media
Live streaming video is basically what it sounds like. A live video source is connected to an encoder and compressed in real time, then sent on to streaming servers for distribution to end users. The live video source could be a terrestrial fiber feed, a satellite signal, a direct or switched camera output, a "live" playback of a tape at a specified time, etc. Because the encoder needs some time to analyze and process the video, there will be a delay between the encoded signal and the live video source. In addition, the client "player" software installed on your computer will perform some amount of "buffering" to ensure picture quality during episodes of minor network congestion. This delay often varies from 8 to 15 seconds, but the user who is watching the compressed version on the web probably isn’t watching the corresponding live video source simultaneously, so this delay will not adversely affect the user's viewing experience. In certain applications, like real time distance learning with live student interaction, the delay inherent in streaming can present a problem, but a properly designed application can deal with these issues.

RealTime Networking utilizes the finest in mass market streaming technologies to provide the best possible multi-media entertainment experience for your customers. New technologies allow RealTime Networking to provide CD quality audio and DVD quality video to the ever-growing broadband community. These enhancements allow regular dial-up Internet users to also experience near CD quality audio, which is something they have not been able to experience before. Also, all streaming media comes with the capabilities to control media rights like never before. In plain English this means you can control who hears your music, how many times they can play it, how many people they can give it to, and for how long they are allowed to listen to it.