Category: Technology

101, Digital Platforms, Employment, events, gaming, Learning, Life Choices, Mentoring, Social Media, Sports, Streaming, Technology

How to Choose the Right Live-streaming Platform

Live streaming has become an increasingly popular way for people to share their content with the world. Whether you are a gamer looking to stream your gameplay, a musician wanting to perform for your fans, or a business owner looking to connect with your customers, there are many different platforms available for you to use. However, with so many different options, it can be overwhelming to decide which platform is best for your needs. In this article, we will discuss some key factors to consider when choosing a platform for your livestream.

1. Audience

The most important factor to consider when choosing a platform for your livestream is your audience. For example, if you are targeting a younger demographic, you may want to consider using platforms like Twitch or TikTok. If you are targeting a more professional audience, you may want to consider using platforms like LinkedIn or Zoom.

2. Purpose

Another important factor to consider when choosing a platform for your livestream is your purpose. Different platforms are designed for different types of content and audiences. For example, if you are streaming a gaming tournament, you may want to consider using platforms like Twitch or YouTube Gaming. If you are streaming a webinar or conference, you may want to consider using platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

3. Features

Each platform offers different features and tools to help you create and manage your livestream. Some platforms offer more advanced features like built-in chatbots, donation systems, and custom overlays. Other platforms may offer more basic features like live video and chat. It is important to consider which features are most important to you and your audience when choosing a platform.

4. Integration

If you already have a following on other social media platforms, it may be useful to choose a platform that integrates well with those platforms. For example, if you have a large following on Instagram, you may want to consider using Instagram Live to reach your audience.

5. Cost

Finally, it is important to consider the cost of the platform. Some platforms are free, while others require a monthly subscription or charge a fee for certain features. It is important to consider your budget and what features are most important to you when choosing a platform.

There are many different factors to consider when choosing a platform for your livestream. It is important to consider your audience, purpose, features, integration, and cost when making your decision. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a platform that will help you reach your audience and achieve your livestreaming goals.

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101, Content Delivery Networks, Mentoring, Streaming, Technology

What Is The Difference Between CDN & P2P Streaming?

When it comes to streaming media content, there are two main methods that are commonly used – content delivery networks (CDN) and peer-to-peer (P2P) streaming. While both methods have the same end goal of delivering content to the viewer, they differ significantly in terms of how they operate. In this post, we will explore the differences between CDN and P2P streaming.

First, let’s start with an overview of CDN. A CDN is a network of servers that are distributed across the globe, with the purpose of delivering content to users in the most efficient way possible. When a user requests content, the CDN server closest to the user’s location will deliver the content, which ensures faster load times and improved user experience. CDN can handle large volumes of users without any loss of quality, making it ideal for live streaming events and popular video on demand (VOD) content.

On the other hand, P2P streaming operates on a different model. Rather than relying on a centralized server, P2P streaming leverages the collective resources of viewers to distribute content. In this model, viewers who are watching the content simultaneously become part of the distribution network. As they watch, they also upload parts of the content to other viewers, making the content available to stream without the need for a centralized server.

One of the key benefits of P2P streaming is that it can handle large volumes of users without the need for expensive server infrastructure. This makes it ideal for smaller content creators and platforms with limited resources. Additionally, P2P streaming can be more resilient to traffic spikes and network disruptions, as the content is distributed across a large number of viewers.

However, P2P streaming also has some downsides. For instance, it can suffer from latency issues, as the content is distributed across multiple viewers, rather than being served directly from a centralized server. Additionally, P2P streaming can be more difficult to manage and monitor than traditional CDN streaming, as content is distributed across multiple sources.

Both CDN and P2P streaming have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. CDN is ideal for large-scale streaming events and popular VOD content, while P2P streaming is better suited for smaller content creators and platforms with limited resources. Ultimately, the choice between CDN and P2P streaming will depend on the specific needs of the content creator or platform.

101, Best Practices, Editing, Mentoring, Project & Production Management, Technology

What Is Forking Edit Material?

Sounds like I’m trying to avoid cursing – right? Wellllll in a very adjacent way, I may be, but that’s not what I’m talking about.

Forking is a term used in video editing that refers to creating multiple versions or copies of a project or sequence as a way to save different versions of the same information. This is typically done to give editors the flexibility to experiment with different approaches to a project without losing any of their original work.

When forking information, an editor will create a new sequence or project that is a copy of the original. This allows them to make changes to the copy without affecting the original. They can then experiment with different edits, transitions, and effects in the copy, and compare the results to the original to see which approach works best.

Forking can also be used as a way to save different versions of a project at different stages of the editing process. For example, an editor may create a fork of a project when they are halfway through the editing process, and then create another fork when they are close to completing the project. This allows them to go back to earlier versions of the project if they need to make changes or try a different approach.

By forking information, editors can save time and avoid the risk of losing their work. They can experiment with different approaches to a project without affecting the original, and keep multiple versions of a project at different stages of the editing process. This can be particularly useful when working on complex projects with many different elements that need to be coordinated and integrated into the final product.

Okkkk. How do you successfully fork a project?

Since the Fork copy is often used for making changes or testing new edits without affecting the original project.

To successfully and efficiently perform forking in video editing, there are a few best practices to keep in mind:

  1. Choose the right video editing software: There are many video editing software tools available, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. Choose the software that best fits your needs and has the features you require.
  2. Keep forking to a minimum: While forking can be useful, it can also lead to confusion and version control issues. Only fork when necessary, and try to keep the number of forks to a minimum.
  3. Keep forks up-to-date: If you do create a fork, it’s important to keep it up-to-date with the original video project. This ensures that any changes made to the original video are reflected in the fork.
  4. Use duplicate sequences: Instead of forking, consider using duplicate sequences to make changes to your video project. Duplicate sequences allow you to work on a separate copy of the project without creating a new project file.
  5. Collaborate effectively: If you’re working with others on a forked video project, make sure you’re collaborating effectively. Use tools like shared project files and version control to ensure that changes are properly reviewed and tested before being merged back into the main project.

By following these best practices, forking can be a powerful tool for video editing. It allows editors to experiment with new edits and make changes without affecting the original project, while still maintaining an up-to-date copy of the project.

If you’d like more information, please reach out.

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101, Editing, events, Learning, Mentoring, Project & Production Management, Social Media, Technology, Training

UGC – What Is it? Why Is It Important?

What is UGC?

User-generated content (UGC): This is content that is created by users or fans of a particular brand or product, often shared on social media or other online platforms. UGC can include photos, videos, reviews, and other types of content that are created by consumers rather than professionals.

Why Is UGC Important?

UGC is a powerful tool for businesses and content creators looking to engage with their audience and create authentic content. Editing UGC can be a bit different than editing other types of footage, as the footage is often shot on a mobile device and may not be of professional quality. However, with the right approach, UGC can be edited into a compelling final product.

Here are some steps involved in the UGC editing process:

1. Gathering footage: The first step in editing UGC is to gather the footage from your audience. This could involve asking your followers to submit videos or photos that relate to a particular theme or topic.

2. Reviewing footage: Once you have gathered the footage, you will need to review it to identify the best clips to use in your final edit. This could include footage that is well-shot and on-topic, as well as footage that evokes a strong emotional response.

3. Organizing footage: Once you have identified the best clips, you will need to organize them in a way that tells a compelling story. This could involve creating a rough storyboard or timeline to map out the flow of the video.

4. Enhancing footage: Depending on the quality of the footage, you may need to enhance it to improve its visual quality. This could include color correction, noise reduction, or other techniques to improve the look of the footage.

5. Adding music and sound effects: Once you have organized and enhanced the footage, you can add music and sound effects to create a more immersive viewing experience. This could include selecting music that complements the mood and tone of the video, as well as sound effects that add texture and depth.

6. Finalizing the edit: Once the editing process is complete, the final product is reviewed and approved by the creative team. Any necessary changes are made, and the final edit is exported for distribution.

Editing UGC can be a powerful way to engage with your audience and create authentic content that resonates with viewers. By gathering, reviewing, and organizing footage, enhancing it with music and sound effects, and finalizing the edit, you can create a compelling final product that showcases the best of what your audience has to offer.

AI, AWS, Career, Cloud Editing, Collaboration, Digital Platforms, Employment, Learning, Life Choices, Mentoring, Teamwork, Technology

New Experiences

What are your challenges?  Do you challenge yourself daily?

With over 33 years of broadcast experience, I have seen the industry evolve and change in significant ways. When I heard about the opportunity to join a large media client’s Digital Video Engineering team, I knew this was a chance to once again put my skills to the test.

As I started the contract just over a month ago, I was eager to learn and contribute to the team. The small team I joined communicates regularly to ensure we were all on the same page and working towards the same goals. I quickly learned that I had a lot to learn, but my previous experience would be an asset to the team.

I am responsible for maintaining core technologies, workflows, and systems vital to live-video and file-based digital workflows. I support the engineering solutions for video editing, transcoding, video streaming, and publishing across multiple properties. I have experience with video routers and Vantage Telestream from my previous roles, which has helped me handle these tasks.  Learning all the new systems and their acronyms has been equally challenging at times, but going with the flow and adapting are essential.

Working within an AWS cloud environment, I am tasked with setting up virtual machines and ensuring that the digital workflow deliveries are met. My experience with S3 and FSX has been crucial in managing Windows file systems that run in the cloud.

Although I have not worked extensively with Python or JSON, I am eager to learn and expand my knowledge in these areas. I have a background in edit post-production, specifically Adobe Premier, and have experience with Linux OS and file acceleration.  So, as a support person, I get to help users that are not only having editing issues, but cloud creation, and connectivity issues.

Throughout my career in broadcasting and digital streaming, I have learned the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and techniques. I am committed to continuing to learn and grow in this field, and I am excited that this opportunity to brought some of my experience and skills into play and new skill sets to the table.

33 years of experience have provided me with the expertise to tackle any challenge that comes my way. I am confident that my skills and background make me a valuable asset to the team, and I look forward to contributing to the team’s success even more. I’m on-call this holiday weekend, which had already tested my knowledge base, and with the stellar help of my teammates I have been able / we have been able to support the news divisions, while maintaining the level of support and service they not only want, but is essential to produce the news.

I am grateful for every challenge that comes my way. I am grateful to learn and grow everyday. It keeps life and my career fresh and I’m perspective everyday.

101, Learning, Mentoring, SME, Technology

Become a SCTE SME

Where to start?

Do you want to become a SCTE (Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers)  subject matter expert (SME)?  You can take the following steps:


1. Gain a foundational understanding of SCTE technologies: Start by learning the basics of SCTE technologies, including SCTE-35, SCTE-104, and SCTE-224. This can be done by reading articles, whitepapers, and technical documentation available on the SCTE website and other industry resources.

2. Attend SCTE training courses: SCTE offers a range of training courses on various SCTE technologies, including SCTE-35, SCTE-104, and SCTE-224. These courses cover the fundamentals of the technology, best practices, and practical applications. Attending these courses can help you gain a deeper understanding of SCTE technologies and prepare you for certification.

3. Pursue SCTE certification: SCTE offers certification programs for various SCTE technologies, including SCTE-35 and SCTE-104. These programs are designed to validate the knowledge and skills of professionals working with SCTE technologies. Pursuing certification can help you establish your expertise in SCTE technologies and advance your career.

4. Participate in SCTE events and communities: SCTE hosts various events, including conferences, webinars, and workshops, where professionals can learn about the latest developments in SCTE technologies and network with other experts. Additionally, SCTE has a community forum where professionals can ask questions, share knowledge, and collaborate with other experts in the field.

By taking these steps, you can become a subject matter expert in SCTE technologies. It’s also important to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field by reading industry publications, attending conferences, and participating in online communities.

Need more info?  Sure! 

Some of the latest developments in the field of SCTE include advancements in DOCSIS 4.0 technology, the deployment of 5G networks, the adoption of cloud-based technologies, and the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in cable networks. Industry publications like Broadband Library and Cablefax, as well as conferences like SCTE Cable-Tec Expo and online communities like SCTE Connect, are great resources to stay up-to-date on these developments.

101, Best Practices, Collaboration, Digital Platforms, Learning, Mentoring, Project & Production Management, Sports, Streaming, Technology

101: Troubleshooting SCTE-35 DAI A Quick Guide

Sometimes things just don’t work. You’ve rebooted, run reports, and you just need to pause. Here are some steps to troubleshoot SCTE-35 DAI issues:

1. Check for SCTE-35 markers: The first step in troubleshooting SCTE-35 DAI issues is to check if the SCTE-35 markers are being inserted into the video stream correctly. You can use a tool like SCTE-35 Analyzer to check if the markers are being sent at the appropriate times and if their contents are correct.

2. Check your ad server: If the SCTE-35 markers are being sent correctly, the next step is to check your ad server. Ensure that the ad server is sending ad inventory to the video player at the appropriate times and that the ad creative is correct.

3. Check your video player: If the ad server is sending ad inventory correctly, the issue may be with your video player. Ensure that your video player is configured correctly to receive SCTE-35 markers and that it is capable of processing them correctly. Check the video player logs for any errors or warnings related to SCTE-35 processing.

4. Check for network issues: If the SCTE-35 markers, ad server, and video player are all working correctly, but the ads are still not showing up, there may be a network issue. Check for any network issues that may be preventing the video player from receiving the ad inventory correctly.

5. Test with different devices and platforms: If the issue is only occurring on certain devices or platforms, test with different devices and platforms to identify if it is a device-specific issue.

6. Contact your ad server or video player provider: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, contact your ad server or video player provider for further assistance. They may be able to provide more targeted troubleshooting steps or identify any issues specific to their platform.

101, Coding, Collaboration, Content Delivery Networks, Digital Platforms, Learning, Mentoring, Streaming, Technology

101: How to Create SCTE 35 & 224 Markers for HLS, JSON, XML, Python, JavaScript, & Ruby

To create SCTE markers for DAI (Dynamic Ad Insertion) for live streaming, you can use a variety of scripting languages and tools. Here are a few examples:

SCTE-35 is a standard for signaling ad insertion opportunities in live streams. It uses MPEG-2 Transport Stream packets to insert “cue” messages that indicate the start and end of ad breaks. To create SCTE-35 markers, you can use tools like SCTE-35 Commander or SCTE-35 Injector. These tools allow you to create SCTE-35 messages and insert them into your live stream.

1. HLS: HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) is a streaming protocol that allows for dynamic ad insertion in live streams. To create SCTE markers for HLS, you can use the EXT-X-CUE-OUT and EXT-X-CUE-IN tags. These tags indicate the start and end of an ad break and can be used to trigger the insertion of ad content. Here is an example of an HLS manifest with SCTE markers:

“`m3u8
#EXTM3U
#EXT-X-VERSION:3
#EXT-X-TARGETDURATION:10
#EXT-X-MEDIA-SEQUENCE:0
#EXT-X-CUE-OUT:DURATION=30
#EXTINF:10.0,
https://example.com/live/stream_720p/chunk_00001.ts
#EXTINF:10.0,
https://example.com/live/stream_720p/chunk_00002.ts
#EXT-X-CUE-IN
#EXTINF:10.0,
https://example.com/live/ad_720p/chunk_00001.ts
#EXTINF:10.0,
https://example.com/live/ad_720p/chunk_00002.ts
#EXT-X-CUE-OUT:DURATION=30
#EXTINF:10.0,
https://example.com/live/stream_720p/chunk_00003.ts
#EXTINF:10.0,
https://example.com/live/stream_720p/chunk_00004.ts
#EXT-X-CUE-IN
#EXTINF:10.0,
https://example.com/live/ad_720p/chunk_00003.ts
#EXTINF:10.0,
https://example.com/live/ad_720p/chunk_00004.ts
#EXT-X-ENDLIST
“`

In this example, the SCTE markers are represented by the EXT-X-CUE-OUT and EXT-X-CUE-IN tags. These tags indicate the start and end of an ad break, and the ad content is inserted between them.

2. JSON: SCTE-224 is a standard for signaling ad breaks in live streams using JSON metadata. To create SCTE markers using SCTE-224, you can use tools like the SCTE-224 Event Scheduler or the SCTE-224 Event Injector. These tools allow you to create JSON metadata that signals the start and end of ad breaks in your live stream.

3. XML: Like JSON, SCTE-224 also supports XML metadata for signaling ad breaks in live streams. You can use XML tags to specify the start and end of ad breaks and other metadata. For example:

“`xml
<ADI>
<Asset>
<Metadata>
<SCTE35>
<SpliceInfoSection>
<SpliceInsert>
<SpliceEvent>
<SpliceEventId>12345</SpliceEventId>
<SpliceOutOfNetworkIndicator>false</SpliceOutOfNetworkIndicator>
<SpliceImmediateFlag>true</SpliceImmediateFlag>
<BreakDuration>30000</BreakDuration>
</SpliceEvent>
</SpliceInsert>
</SpliceInfoSection>
</SCTE35>
</Metadata>
</Asset>
</ADI>
“`

In this example, an SCTE-35 splice event is specified using XML tags within an Asset Description and Metadata Interface (ADI) file.

4. Python: You can also use Python scripts to generate SCTE-35 messages for DAI. For example, the SCTE-35 Python library allows you to create SCTE-35 messages using Python code. Here’s an example Python script that creates an SCTE-35 message:

“`python
from scte35 import SpliceInfoSection, SpliceInsert

splice_event = SpliceInsert(
splice_event_id=12345,
out_of_network=False,
immediate=True,
break_duration=30
)

splice_info_section = SpliceInfoSection(
splice_insert=splice_event
)

scte35_message = splice_info_section.to_bytes()
“`

This script creates a splice event with ID 12345, a break duration of 30 seconds, and other parameters, and then generates an SCTE-35 message using the scte35 library.

5. JavaScript: If you’re working with web-based live streaming technologies like HLS or DASH, you can use JavaScript to manipulate the manifest files and insert SCTE markers. For example, you could use JavaScript to modify the EXT-X-CUE-OUT and EXT-X-CUE-IN tags in an HLS manifest file to indicate ad breaks.

6. Ruby: Ruby is another scripting language that can be used to generate SCTE-35 messages for DAI. The SCTE35 gem is a Ruby library that allows you to create and parse SCTE-35 messages. Here’s an example Ruby script that creates an SCTE-35 message:

“`ruby
require ‘scte35’

splice_event = SCTE35::SpliceInsert.new(
splice_event_id: 12345,
out_of_network: false,
immediate: true,
break_duration: 30
)

splice_info_section = SCTE35::SpliceInfoSection.new(
splice_insert: splice_event
)

scte35_message = splice_info_section.to_binary_s
“`

This script creates a splice event using the SCTE35 gem, sets its parameters, and generates an SCTE-35 binary message.

Overall, the choice of scripting language and tool depends on the specific requirements of your live streaming setup. These examples show some common options for creating SCTE markers for DAI in live streaming.

101, Best Practices, Coding, Content Delivery Networks, Digital Platforms, HLS Streaming, Project & Production Management, Streaming, Technology

101: What is ESAM Scripting for YouTube & SCTE DAI?

First, what is SCTE? (pronounced scut-e). The Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) is a professional association that offers education, certification, and standards for the telecommunications industry. SCTE serves as a technical and applied science leader, providing training and certification programs in broadband, cable networks, and digital video. It has a diverse membership of professionals, including engineers and technicians, who work in the cable and telecommunications industries.

Next, what is ESAM? ESAM stands for Event Signaling and Management. It is a protocol used in cable networks to provide advanced notification and management of network events. ESAM allows for the delivery of messages that can be used to signal events such as program start and end times, emergency alerts, and other network events. It is an important component of the CableLabs Enhanced Content Specification, which is a set of technical specifications used in digital TV networks. ESAM is designed to enhance the functionality and interoperability of networks, improving the viewing experience for subscribers.

ESAM scripting for SCTE:

1. Identify the video content that needs to be marked up with SCTE markers. These could be ad breaks, chapter markers, or other significant events in the video.

2. Use an ESAM editor tool to create the ESAM script. There are several tools available, such as ESAM Creator and ESAM Builder. These tools allow you to create, edit, and validate the ESAM script.

3. Define the SCTE markers in the ESAM script. Each marker should include the timecode, duration, and type of event. For example, an ad break marker could be defined as a “cue-in” event with a duration of 30 seconds.

4. Validate the ESAM script to ensure that it is compliant with the SCTE specification. Use the ESAM editor tool to run the validation process and check for any errors or warnings.

5. Save the ESAM script and upload it to your YouTube account. You can do this by selecting the video content in your YouTube Studio dashboard, navigating to the “Advanced” tab, and uploading the ESAM script in the “Content ID” section.

6. Review the video content to ensure that the SCTE markers are working correctly. You can use the YouTube player to test the markers and make any necessary adjustments to the ESAM script.

By following these steps, you can create an ESAM script for YouTube SCTE that will help you manage and monetize your video content more effectively.

An ESAM script is an XML-based file that contains information about events or markers that occur in video content. These markers can be used for a variety of purposes, such as indicating ad breaks, chapter markers, or other significant events in the video.

Here is an example of an ESAM script for a dynamic commercial SCTE marker in XML format:

“`xml
<?xml version=”1.0″ encoding=”UTF-8″?>
<ESAM xmlns=”urn:ietf:params:xml:ns:esam:1.0″>
<EventSignal Time=”00:05:00.000″ Duration=”00:00:30.000″ Type=”Commercial”>
<Metadata>
<MetadataItem Name=”AdType”>Dynamic</MetadataItem>
<MetadataItem Name=”AdID”>1234</MetadataItem>
<MetadataItem Name=”AdTitle”>Example Ad</MetadataItem>
<MetadataItem Name=”Advertiser”>Acme Corp</MetadataItem>
</Metadata>
</EventSignal>
</ESAM>
“`

In this example, the ESAM script includes a “Commercial” event signal that occurs at the 5-minute mark of the video and lasts for 30 seconds. The metadata associated with the event signal includes information about the ad type, ID, title, and advertiser.

By using ESAM scripts like this one, video content creators and distributors can manage and monetize their content more effectively, while providing a better experience for viewers.

More scripting tomorrow…. stay tuned!

101, Best Practices, Career, Collaboration, Learning, Technology, Training

Building A Stack for Your Business: 101

What does building a stack mean?

Building a stack refers to the process of selecting and integrating different software tools and technologies to create a customized software solution that meets your specific business needs.

1. Identify your business needs: The first step in building a stack is to identify your business needs. Determine what problems you are trying to solve and what goals you want to achieve.

2. Research available tools: Once you have identified your business needs, research different software tools and technologies that can help you meet those needs. Look for tools that are reputable, well-supported, and have a track record of success in your industry.

3. Evaluate tools: Evaluate the tools you have identified by looking at their features, pricing, ease of use, and compatibility with your existing systems. Consider factors such as scalability, security, and customization options.

4. Select tools: Based on your research and evaluation, select the tools that best meet your needs and fit within your budget. Make sure to consider how the different tools will work together and integrate with your existing systems.

5. Integrate tools: Once you have selected your tools, work on integrating them to create a seamless and cohesive software stack. This may involve customizing the tools, creating APIs, or developing other integration solutions.

6. Test and refine: After you have integrated your tools, test the stack to ensure it is working as expected. Refine the stack as necessary to optimize performance and ensure it is meeting your business needs.

7. Maintain and update: Finally, maintain and update your software stack over time to ensure it remains up-to-date and continues to meet your business needs. Keep an eye on emerging technologies and be willing to make changes as needed to stay competitive and efficient.