Macromedia has announced the immediate availability of Flash Media Server 2, server software that offers an unmatched combination of traditional streaming media capabilities and a flexible development environment for creating and delivering innovative, interactive media applications.
According to Jeremy Matthews, MD of local e-business enablement specialist and Macromedia distributor, Dax Data, Flash Media Server 2 complements the recently announced Macromedia Flash Professional 8 and Flash Player 8.
"This makes the Flash Platform the leading solution for creating and delivering interactive rich-media applications across browsers and operating systems of all kinds," he says.
"The Flash Platform delivers a superior Web video experience. Today, the vast majority of Web video is presented with a bewildering array of options and downloads that stand between a viewer and content. The ubiquity of Flash Player coupled with the new Flash Media Server 2 reliably delivers a Hassle-free, instant-on video experience across platforms, various connection speeds and browsers."
This means that publishers can integrate video into their Web sites and applications with complete control over playback, interactivity and branding for a seamless experience. Flash Media Server 2 is the foundation for delivering both recorded and live Flash Video in large-scale deployments such as video on demand, live Web broadcasts, MP3 streaming, video blogging, and video/audio chat applications.
The new release introduces new scalable Edge-Origin servers, an optional, enterprise-ready architecture that simplifies load balancing, failover and clustering to ensure greater reliability and scalability of streaming rich interactive experiences even during peak traffic times.
Flash Media Server 2`s programmable streaming environment includes a robust API for precise code control over media streams, assets and features - like custom interactivity, user authentication and bandwidth detection - to deliver truly distinct user experiences. In addition, video experiences are enhanced by the new high-quality video codec in Flash Player 8, complete with automatic detection of the client`s bandwidth connection and capability to adjust the stream accordingly.
"Using Macromedia Flash Media Server 2 with Flash Professional gives media content providers the advantage of creating and presenting a broad range of interactive content to their audiences," says Matthews.
"Flash Media Server 2 now provides enhanced new options for streaming Flash Video, letting users deploy a greater array of content that can be viewed across multiple platforms. With the most interactivity and creative control, Flash Video offers online content that just isn`t possible through any other media player."
Flash Media Server operates across standard Windows or Linux servers and integrates with existing databases and Web and data services. Expanded extensibility functionality enables customers to manage XML-based media meta-data, access local system resources and control logging and reporting for tighter integration with existing media ingest and management systems.
"This latest release from Macromedia confirms its Flash Platform as the best choice for Web video and customers with current Flash Communication Server maintenance contracts will be pleased to learn they are entitled to free upgrades to Flash Media Server 2," concludes Matthews.
Share
Dax Data is a value-added software distributor and product marketing organisation, focusing on Web technology and host connectivity. With offices in Cape Town and Johannesburg and holds a variety of distribution and remarketing agreements for local markets, including:
* Macromedia - Web design and development tools and servers
* NetManage - RUMBA and OnWeb Web enablement and host connectivity
* Graphon - Thin-client solutions
*.DataMirror - Enterprise connectivity, data availability and disaster recovery with replication products
* Logitech - Webcams and desktop peripherals
Historically, Dax Data has assisted companies with delivery of mainframe-based information to open systems platforms such as PCs and LANs - primarily by means of the NetManage suite of products such as RUMBA, which it has distributed since 1992.
Developments in recent years have seen the company expand its range of Web technologies; its distribution agreement with Macromedia becoming a mainstay. Dax Data works with a number of resellers, consulting and training partners to ensure the successful delivery of customer solutions.
Driven by customer demand, Dax Data has transitioned strongly into the Web development market, offering a set of value-added services that include: Presales evaluation programmes, first line technical support, consultancy and training. Dax Data enjoys various industry accreditations and is recognised as a Microsoft Certified Partner, IBM Business Partner and Sun iForce Partner.
Macromedia
Experience matters. Macromedia is motivated by the belief that great experiences build great businesses. Our software empowers millions of business users, developers and designers to create and deliver effective, compelling and memorable experiences - on the Internet, on fixed media, on wireless, and on digital devices.
Editorial contacts