Here’s the presentation description; click below to download the handout. The presentation video is at the bottom of the page. This session explores the current status of HEVC, identifying options for encoding live and on-demand HEVC and discussing player options in the streaming and OTT markets. Topics include the comparative quality and usability of HEVC encoders—including encoders from Cisco, Elemental, …
Read More »Choosing a Cloud Encoder
Here’s the session description; click below to download the handout. You can watch the actual conference video at the bottom of the page. This session describes what cloud encoding is and how it works for both live and on-demand applications. Learn the types of applications that work well with cloud encoding and the factors to consider when choosing an …
Read More »Handout for Multiscreen Delivery Workshop
Below is the presentation handout for my Encoding for Multiscreen Delivery: H.264, Protocols and Devices, workshop today at Streaming Media West. Here’s the description. Learn how to create a set of video files that will play on all devices, from smartphones to computers and OTT devices. The workshop starts by exploring key concepts like protocol and container formats and technologies …
Read More »Apple Supports H.265, But So Far Only in FaceTime on an iPhone 6
H.265 is coming to the Android operating system, as well, but it’s nowhere to be seen on desktop or notebook computers. Since I own an iPhone 6, I should have noticed this earlier, but I just learned that Apple is using H.265 in FaceTime on the new models. Note that the unit’s video playback specs don’t mention H.265, so presumably …
Read More »Encoding for Multiple Screen Delivery
Here’s the session description. This session details the playback capabilities and technology compatibilities of desktop, mobile, and TV screens, and explores the technical issues and feasibility of producing one set of streams for all platforms, including how technologies like transmuxing and live transcoding simplify the overall distribution workflow. Click below to download the handout. The video is directly below.
Read More »Producing and Distributing HEVC
Here’s the description; click below to download the handout and access the sample files. This session explores the current status of HEVC, identifying options for encoding live and on-demand HEVC and discussing player options in the streaming and OTT markets. Topics include the comparative quality and usability of HEVC encoders, how HEVC quality compares to H.264 and VP9 (if encoders …
Read More »Streaming Camera Guide: How to Choose Your Next Camera
Streaming producers have an array of camera options, from the cameras in their smartphones to professional models costing four figures or more. In this article, we’ll identify the major camera categories; discuss their strengths, weakness and best use cases; and features to look for when choosing a camera within the category. While there are dozens, if not hundreds, of cameras …
Read More »Video for the Long Haul: Exploring Backhaul Options
You’re streaming a high-profile event in the not-too-distant future, and you’re wondering about your options for transmitting your video to your streaming server or service provider. You’re concerned about quality, reliability, and
Read More »In Defense of MPEG LA
Recent bad press received by MPEG LA seems to disprove the old adage that all PR is good PR. A few weeks ago, writing for Fox News, Steve Forbes said: One example is MPEG LA—a patent pooling entity and owner of the MPEG-2 standard commonly foun
Read More »Stream With Care: Simple Production Tips for Quality Results
Most seasoned compressionists know that you can’t have high-quality streaming media without quality audio and video. In honor of our production issue, I thought I would list the production techniques that can make or break audio and video quality. Let’s start with the setup. There are two concepts to keep in mind here: contrast ratio and detail. Cameras have limited …
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