layer A mechanism for prioritizing the tracks in a movie or the overlapping of sprites. When it plays a movie, QuickTime displays the movie’s images according to their layer—images with lower layer numbers are displayed on top; images with higher layer numbers may be obscured by images with lower layer numbers.

M

M3U file An audio metafile that is created using a text editor and saved to a web server. The file directs a user’s web browser to an MP3 playlist residing on the same web server and opens the user’s MP3 player.

Mac OS X The latest version of the Apple operating system, which combines the reliability of UNIX with the ease of use of Macintosh.

Mac OS X Server An industrial-strength server platform that supports Mac, Windows, UNIX, and Linux clients out of the box and provides a suite of scalable workgroup and network services plus advanced remote management tools.

Manual Unicast A method for transmitting a live stream to a single QuickTime Player client or to a computer running QTSS or DSS. An SDP file is usually created by the broadcaster application and then must be manually sent to the viewer or streaming server.

Mbone Short for Multicast Backbone, a virtual network for real-time streaming over the Internet.

MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) A standard format for sending

instructions to a musical synthesizer.

modifier track A track in a movie that modifies the data or presentation of other tracks. For example, a tween track is a modifier track.

mount point A string used to identify a live stream, which can be a relayed movie stream, a nonrelayed movie stream, or an MP3 stream. Mount points that describe live movie streams always end with an .sdp extension.

MOV The Apple QuickTime movie file extension used to name both movie redirect files and actual QuickTime media files.

movie A structure of time-based data that is managed by QuickTime. A QuickTime movie may contain sound, video, animation, or a combination of data types. A QuickTime movie contains one or more tracks; each track represents a single data stream in the movie.

MP3 (MPEG layer 3) A popular format for compressing music.

MPEG-4An ISO standard based on the QuickTime file format that defines multimedia file and compression formats.

multicast An efficient, one-to-many form of streaming. Users can join or leave a multicast but cannot otherwise interact with it.

multihomed A server with multiple IP addresses.

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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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