Playlists

Playlists are sets of media files in the QTSS or DSS media folder specified to play one after the other or in random sequence. This section provides basic information on creating and working with playlists.

Using Playlists to Broadcast Prerecorded Media

You can create a virtual “radio station” or video broadcast by setting prerecorded QuickTime media, MPEG-4, or MP3 files to play in a specified order (a playlist). Setting up a series of playlists broadcasts the media to the streaming server, which sends the media to viewers in the sequence you set up (random or ordered). Although the media is prerecorded, it appears to viewers as a live broadcast. All viewers see the same media when they tune in to the broadcast.

To broadcast media in a playlist:

1Prepare QuickTime, MPEG-4, or MP3 media.

2Create a playlist.

3Start broadcast service by clicking the Play button for each playlist.

4Tell users how to connect to the broadcast.

For movie playlists, provide an RTSP URL. For MP3 playlists, provide an HTTP link.

Working With Playlist Settings

You can change playlist settings in the Playlists pane of Streaming Server Admin.

To see a playlist’s settings, click Playlists, then click the name of the playlist you want to see in the Available Playlists pane, and click Edit Playlist.

“Name” is the name you give your playlist and the name that appears in the Available Playlists pane.

“Mount Point” is the path section of the URL you give to clients (or that you embed in a web page). You must give the mount point a name (often the same name as the playlist). Spaces are automatically converted to underscores and “.sdp” is appended to the name of the file.

Don’t use the “.sdp” extension if this is an MP3 playlist.

The playlist name and mount point must be unique. No two broadcasts can use the same name.

“Play Mode” can be one of three types:

“Sequential” broadcasts the media in the order in which it appears in the playlist file. When the last media file has ended, the broadcast stops.

“Sequential Looped” broadcasts the media in the order in which it appears in the playlist file. When the last media file has ended, the playlist repeats in the same order.

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QuickTime Streaming Server Darwin Streaming Server specifications

Apple QuickTime Streaming Server, also known as Darwin Streaming Server, is a pivotal technology in the realm of multimedia streaming. Developed by Apple Inc., this open-source server software is designed specifically for the efficient delivery of video and audio content over the internet. One of the standout features of Darwin Streaming Server is its capability to stream content using the QuickTime file format, which is widely adopted for rich media applications.

A core characteristic of Darwin Streaming Server is its support for the Real-Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP). This protocol enables the server to communicate effectively with user clients, ensuring smooth playback of multimedia content. RTSP also allows for advanced streaming capabilities, such as pause, rewind, and fast forward, providing users with a versatile viewing experience.

Darwin Streaming Server is built on a highly modular architecture that enhances its scalability and flexibility. It can easily handle multiple simultaneous streams, making it suitable for both small-scale projects and large-scale broadcast environments. The server can efficiently manage bandwidth, optimizing the delivery of content even during peak usage times.

Another notable feature of Darwin Streaming Server is its robust integration with Apple’s QuickTime technology. This compatibility enables the seamless distribution of interactive media, which is crucial for applications in education, entertainment, and corporate training. The server can stream both live and on-demand audio and video content, catering to a diverse audience.

Additionally, Darwin Streaming Server supports various streaming formats, including MP3 and AAC for audio and H.264 for video. This flexibility allows content creators to deliver high-quality media while maintaining compatibility with various devices and platforms, from desktop computers to mobile devices.

Security is another important aspect of Darwin Streaming Server. It supports encryption protocols, ensuring that sensitive content is protected during transmission. This is particularly valuable for organizations that need to secure proprietary content or deliver private media to specific audiences.

In conclusion, Apple QuickTime Streaming Server, or Darwin Streaming Server, stands out as a powerful tool for multimedia streaming. Its integration of RTSP, compatibility with QuickTime, modular architecture, and robust security features make it an ideal choice for businesses and content creators looking to deliver high-quality streaming experiences. Whether used for live broadcasts or on-demand content, Darwin Streaming Server remains a significant contributor to the evolution of online media delivery.
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