Spring 2012 (Sourcebook)

Magazine Features

Editor's Note: Big Time

Streaming Media is expanding, with a bigger Sourcebook, the new Streaming Media Producer site, and soon a Streaming Media app for iOS and Android.

The State of Media and Entertainment 2012

Content owners, device manufacturers, and distribution platforms all vie for their piece of the pie.

Publisher's Note: Don't Panic!

The Streaming Media Industry Sourcebook is your Hitchiker's Guide to Online Video

The State of Enterprise Video 2012

Online video platforms and social networks are transforming corporate communications.

2011's Online Video Acquisitions Set the Stage for an Interesting 2012

Acquisitions and mergers in 2011—including Cisco-Inlet, Polycom-Accordent, Akamai-Cotendo, and Thoma Bravo-Telestream—will have a significant impact on the online video landscape in 2012 and beyond.

Buyer's Guide: Cameras

When it comes to choosing the right equipment for producing online video, it all starts with the camera. DSLR or Camcorder? We help you decide.

Buyer's Guide: Light Kits

Looking to light that CEO talk or customer testimonial? You'll get what you pay for. Here's what to look for in lighting kits, and a chart comparing five leading options.

Buyer's Guide: Microphones

Top-notch audio is at least as important as quality video, and it all starts with the mic. Read on to find out what features to look for when making your microphone purchases.

Buyer's Guide: Live Encoders

When it's got to be streamed live, you can't cut corners. Here's a list of questions to ask when selecting a live encoding solution.

Buyer's Guide: Live Transcoders

What to look for when you need to transcode and transrate more than just one format

Buyer's Guide: Hardware and Cloud Transcoding

Sometimes a software-only solution won't do the trick. Here's what to look for when you need to do your transcoding via hardware or in the cloud.

Buyer's Guide: CellMux, Link-Aggregator, and Channel-Bond Devices

What to look for in cellular multiplexing devices -- perhaps the fastest growing streaming technology.

Buyer's Guide: Software Encoders

There are bundled, desktop, and enterprise offerings. Read on to learn which one is right for your needs.

Buyer's Guide: Windows Production Stations

From the operating system to the graphics card, here is all you need to know to buy the best workstation for your budget.

Buyer's Guide: Metadata

Video indexing and metadata extraction services help viewers find the clips they want to see. Here are key questions to ask before making a purchase.

Buyer's Guide: Player Technology

Since there's no single player that works on all devices, you've got questions to answer before you settle on one for your content.

Buyer's Guide: Media Servers

Your streaming server is the lifeblood of your business. Make sure you pick the right one for your needs.

Buyer's Guide: Content Delivery Networks

No one said choosing a CDN is easy, so here's a guide to the decision-making process. Don't miss our giant CDN flow chart.

Buyer's Guide: Online Video Platforms

With dozens of OVPs in the market, it's harder than ever to select the right one. Here are some guidelines to help you choose.

Buyer's Guide: Transport Protocols

Comparing HTTP, RTSP, and RTMP, with a dash of MPEG DASH thrown in.

Buyer's Guide: Live Streaming Services

Production capability and user experience distinguish services. If you're in the market, look to our comprehensive chart comparing Livestream, Justin.tv, Bambuser, MultiStream, and Ustream.

How to Produce for Adaptive Streaming

Adaptive streaming is the ideal way to deliver video content online. Here's how to do it right.

Building an HTML5 Video Player

Want to roll your own HTML5 player? Here's what you need to know to get started.