Burstware is a server based software product suite that provides video and audio content to end users at rates faster than the encoded bit rates of the content itself. In order to view or listen to content delivered by a Burstware server, users must make use of a "burst-enabled" media player; currently, Burstware offers plug-ins that will Burst enable the Windows Media Player and the QuickTime for Windows player. In a press release, burst.com states that a plug-in for the Mac version of QuickTime will be released later in the year.

The Burstware system is made up of 3 components: the Server, the Conductor, and the Player plug-in.

When a user first requests Burstware content, the Windows Media Player or QuickTime Player plugin is downloaded automatically for installation on the user's system. The player then requests the content feed through the Conductor, which provides load balancing for multiple servers and routes the player request to the most appropriate source.

The Server then delivers the content to the player in bursts of data which are then buffered by the player for smooth playback. These data bursts can be sent at speeds faster than the encoded bit rates of the content itself (up to the client's connection speed).

In addition to providing streaming capabilities for media files, Burstware has announced their Burstware Live system, which allows for the bursted delivery of live broadcasts. Burstware Live is built on the Burstware delivery technology, and will also feature "time shifting," the ability to pause, resume, and fast forward back to the current broadcast point.

Burstware version 2.0 is now available from the burst.com Web site. Burstware Live is currently in development, contact Burstware for further information.

product submission by DPW Staff

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