mWindows can cause lighting problems. For more control, you should be able to draw the blinds and supplement room lights with a portable lighting kit that can be quickly set up for a live session.

Step 2: Prepare the Network

Check that there is an Ethernet connection to the classroom or lecture hall where the live broadcast is to take place. Install, repair, or replace cables and connectors as needed, using high-quality materials.

Bear in mind that streaming—especially live streaming—can make heavy demands on network resources, especially available bandwidth. To ensure that the network can handle the extra load, it may be necessary to do some or all of the following:

mDetermine the capacity of the existing network and calculate the anticipated additional traffic generated by live and on-demand streaming.

mDraw a map of bandwidth segments on your network, listing the capacity between all points.

mDetermine which applications are used in your network, their use patterns, where they are hosted, and the bandwidth they normally use during peak and off-peak times.

mBased on the configuration and capacities of your network, select the appropriate place to install your streaming server, avoiding potential bottlenecks.

mIf necessary, add capacity to the network (additional T1 lines, routers, switches, and so on) to handle the anticipated maximum number of concurrent viewers of live broadcasts in addition to other peak network traffic.

Keep in mind that a typical local network provides bandwidth internally of 10–100 Mbps. In contrast, a T1 line, frequently used to connect to the Internet, provides only about 1.5 Mbps of bandwidth.

T1 lines work fine for HTTP and FTP, where the requests are either short lived or are not time sensitive, but streaming is much more demanding. With streaming you can’t slow things down. The data has to be transferred at least as fast as the original content data rate in order to deliver streams.

For this example, we will assume a maximum of 10 concurrent viewers, half on the local network and half on the Internet and a bit rate for each unicast stream of approximately 256 kilobits per second (Kbps). The peak extra bandwidth needed is then about 3.2–3.3 megabits per second (Mbps). This estimate includes an extra margin of 25–30 percent for unplanned network congestion and peaks in the transmitted streams that can occur for various reasons.

58 Chapter 3

Page 58
Image 58
Apple QuickTime Streaming Server Darwin Streaming Server manual Prepare the Network

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.