How to Choose an Enterprise-Class Video Encoder

If it's time to step up to an enterprise video encoder, watch this video from Streaming Media Europe 2012 first. In it, compression expert Jan Ozer explains the difference between types of encoders and helps people select the best one for their needs.

Ozer starts out by explaining what sets an enterprise-class encoder apart:

"What is an enterprise encoder? How is Squeeze Server -- a tool from Sorenson Media -- different from Squeeze, which is a desktop tool that many of us know and love?" Ozer asked. "Similarly, how is Episode Engine different Episode Pro, which is a $1,000 desktop tool? The differentiation varies by product, but here are some concepts:

"When I think about an enterprise encoder, I think about products that enable shared usage, both from watch folders and user interface, but also via an API. So most enterprise encoding tools have an API that allows you to address its encoding capabilities from your content management system, [then] deliver those files to your streaming web system. The API is very, very key."

Enterprise encoders also offer a performance difference, although desktop encoders sometimes have to be limited to make that distinction:

"Some vendors don't enable the highest possible performance on their desktop tools. In particular, that's Telestream Episode Pro [which] can only encode two parallel encodes simultaneously. Episode Engine can do an unlimited amount," Ozer said.

For much more on choosing an enterprise-class video encoder, watch the video below.

HOW TO: Choosing an Enterprise-Class Video Encoder
This session will discuss factors to consider when choosing an enterprise video encoding system from the likes of Ateme, MainConcept, Thomson Video Networks, and others. Factors incorporated into the analysis will include performance, output quality, quality control options, format support, expansion options, programmability, and other variables. If you're considering buying an enterprise encoder or upgrading your current systems, you'll find this session particularly useful.
Jan Ozer, Principal, Doceo Publishing