The following basic components are needed to run Streaming or On-Demand Audio & Video:

Server Hardware

Although a server computer can be either a workstation or a network server, using a workstation as a steaming server has limited value because of its lack of processing power and storage space. Streaming Audio/Video files can be quite large, and broadcasting can use a great deal of a computer's resources. For most applications, a dedicated network server is recommended.

 

Server Software:

Specialized streaming audio/video server software is required.

 

Production Hardware:

Audio & video recording and editing equipment are needed if you will be creating your own content. A separate "production" computer is recommended if you will be producing and broadcasting at the same time.

 

Production Software:

Software for recording and editing your broadcast material are needed if you will be creating your own content.

 

Client Hardware:

Most any pentium-quality workstation can receive streaming or on-demand audio/video. The workstation needs to have enough processing power and memory to play video at a reasonable speed and at a viewable size, and a sound card. It must have network card or modem to connect to the server.

 

Client Software:

An internet browser such as Microsoft's Internet Explorer or Netscape, and multimedia client software such as RealAudio's Realplayer or Microsoft's Media player.

 

Network Connectivity:

Client computers can be connected to the server through network cable or an internet connection. A network router may also be required.