Streamalot: Streaming
Media Tips, Tricks, and Hints
Production
(cont'd)
If I don't want to stream 'live', where do I put my content in order to allow people to access it?
You content would need to be placed on a server/computer
that is running Internet Information Services or streaming services that are associated with your content (i.e Windws Media Services). Some host providers
and ISP's offer these services but some may not. You'll need to check with your Host provider
to find out exactly what services they offer. NOTE: Streaming
media files that are placed on a server not running streaming
services will require the end user to first download and save the file to their local PC before it can be played.
How do people access media
files once they are on the streaming server?
For users to access your stream you will need to send them a direct link to it, or post the link to it on your website. You can also embed the link into a playlist file.
To link to your media file or stream from your webpage, just add a link on your site that either points directly to your stream or media server, or directly to your media file(s), or to a playlist file.
What is a playlist-file?
A playlist-file is a small text file that resides on a
web server. This file directs the users player
to a specific media file or stream to play by providing the direct path to a stream or specified file. It also allows you to add specific
information that may be displayed in the player such as song title or stream name. There are
several types of playlist files; asx, m3u, pls, and ram. To learn how to
make a playlist file, please
go here.
You can also allow users to play your content via an embedded player.
What is an embedded a player?
An embedded player is a method that allows users to play your content via a player that is 'embedded' into your website. An embeded player can be integrated as part of the webpage itself, or can be designed to work as a popup window.
The advantage is that a user doesn't necessarily have to have a speciific player intalled on their PC in order to access your content.
However, on the flip side, though there are a large variety of embedded players that are available, most do require a certain level of HMTL and coding knowledge in order to be able to properly install them.
Where can I find an easy to install embedded player to add to my website?
The most popular embedded player used is the Windows Media embedded player. For working examples (including the HTML code), click here.
