Streaming media, such as Real Media sound files are a great way to enhance to your website, but there are some specific items that are required in order to put them up and have them work correctly.
- server software that supports streaming media
- file types that can be streamed
Streaming from the Web Server
While you don't have to have a streaming server in order to stream sound and video from your website, having a dedicated server is helpful when you have a lot of files to stream.
One of the more popular servers is the Helix Server by RealNetworks. You can also look at the servers listed on the About.com Internet Radio site: Server Software for Streaming Audio.
If you don't want to install or maintain another server, many hosting providers now offer streaming media support. Talk to your hosting provider for more information.
Create the Sound Files for Streaming
If you are going to create a sound file for your site, you'll need a program to create your sound files. Helix Producer is created by RealNetworks and pairs well with the Helix server. You can see a comparison of other streaming recording software on the Internet Radio site: Recording Software Chart—Feature Comparison.
If you're making a sound file of your voice or music you have performed, you'll need a microphone. The better quality your microphone is, the better your sound file.
Make sure that your recording studio is free of extraneous noises. Poor recordings can be worse than no recordings when you want to make a good impression on your site.
Creating the Streaming Audio File
Use your preferred software to record your sound file. Then save or convert it to a streaming media format such as mp3 or rm. You can also use an existing sound file. You just need to convert it to a streaming media format.
Stay current by reading the Most Current Articles on web design and HTML.
