Copyright: © 1998 RealNetworks, Inc.


Introducing RealEncoder

RealEncoder is a powerful tool that makes it possible for you to create RealAudio and RealVideo files. These files are streaming media, allowing audio or video clips to play as soon as they are received by your computer and eliminating the wait for file downloads.

See Also:

Basic steps to creating streaming media

About RealAudio and RealVideo

For more information


Basic steps to creating streaming media

1.	Select audio and video content from a variety of sources:

•	existing audio and video files, including .wav, .avi, and .mov file formats

•	media devices such as video cameras, microphones, audio tape, videotape, and satellite feeds

2.	Record your source audio and video to create RealMedia files in several ways with:

•	wizards that automatically set audio and video bandwidth options for the connection delivering your content

•	pre-defined recording templates

•	or your own customized templates


About RealAudio and RealVideo

RealEncoder creates on-demand content that users can access whenever they choose and can be created in all screen sizes. It can be played from standard Web servers or from a RealNetworks RealServer for higher reliability. Live audio and video require a RealServer.

With RealEncoder you can choose to deliver a wide range of media quality and performance, from ordinary modem connections all the way to corporate Intranet LANs. You can also maximize the available bandwidth to meet the demands of the content, for example, a music video requires different emphasis than a simple speech.


For more information

For more information about any of the topics in this manual, refer to the RealAudio and RealVideo Content Creation Guide, available at RealNetworks Web site at www.real.com.

Other topics included in the RealAudio and RealVideo Content Creation Guide are:

•	RealEncoder installed files and file extensions

•	command-line encoding

•	editing RealAudio and RealVideo

•	synchronized multimedia

•	simulating a live broadcast

•	image maps

•	command-line editing

•	configuring your Web site


Installing RealEncoder

Installing RealEncoder is quick and easy. You can download RealEncoder from the RealNetworks Web site or install it from a CD-ROM. Before you begin, make sure you conform with the necessary system requirements.

To download and install the program from the RealNetworks Web site:

1.	After receiving the product online, click the Save to Disk button and specify a temporary directory for the installation program. Note where you saved it.

2.	In File Manager or Explorer, double-click the installation icon in the temporary directory to activate the automated installation process.

To install RealEncoder setup program from CD-ROM:

1.	Insert the CD-ROM into the drive.

2.	Follow the prompts.

To complete the installation of RealEncoder:

1.	Close any other applications that may be open and click Next.

2.	To accept the terms and conditions for installing RealEncoder, click Accept.

3.	Enter your name, company or organization name, and e-mail address. Then click Next.

6.	To install RealEncoder into the default directory, click Next. If you wish to install RealEncoder in a different location, click Browse and select the directory into which you want it to be installed.

7.	To finish the installation, click Finish.

8.	When installation is finished, click OK.


System Requirements

This section outlines the basic hardware and software requirements needed to use RealEncoder. Requirements are based upon the source of the recording (existing files or live content).

RealEncoder is currently available for the following operating systems:

•	Windows 95

•	Windows NT (3.5, 3.51, and 4.0)

See Also:

Requirements: Recording existing files to RealAudio or RealVideo

Requirements: Recording live video into RealAudio or RealVideo


Requirements: Recording existing files to RealAudio or RealVideo
Recording existing files to RealAudio or RealVideo

The following table lists the minimum and the recommended requirements for recording existing audio and video files into RealMedia files:

Requirement	Minimum	Recommended
CPU	486/66 DX	Pentium 120
RAM	8 MB	16 MB
Hard Disk space (software)	4 MB
Hard Disk space (data)	500 MB	1 GB
Color Display	16-bit	24-bit (TrueColor)
Sound Card	16-bit sound card or better
See Also:

System Requirements


Requirements: Recording live video into RealAudio and RealVideo
Recording live video into RealAudio and RealVideo

In addition to normal hardware and software requirements, live capture and recording can use content from a variety of sources:

•	VHS, S-VHS, or Beta-SP tape

•	live video camera and microphones

•	any other video or audio source

High-quality, live recording takes longer and requires greater computer power than recording existing files. The following table lists the minimum and recommended requirements for recording at low and high frame rates.

Requirement	Low Frame Rate (less than 3 fps)	Minimum for High Frame Rate (more than 3 fps)	Recommended for High Frame Rate or Large Screen Sizes
Operating System	Windows 95	Windows NT
Computer	Pentium 166 MHz	Pentium 200 MHz	Dual Pentium 2
RAM	32 MB	64 MB
Hard Drive	1 GB	1 GB
Color Display	16-bit	24-bit (TrueColor)
Video Capture Card	Any native Video for Windows-capable capture card	Osprey 100, Osprey 1000 (or equivalent)
Sound Card	16-bit sound card or better	16-bit sound card or better
Note: Slower machines also give reasonable results in Slide Show mode, at 1fps or less.

See Also:

System Requirements


Creating RealAudio and RealVideo

This section describes how to use RealEncoder to convert your media into RealAudio and RealVideo. It provides instructions for recording existing computer media files, for recording from media devices, and for broadcasting your live content.

RealEncoder gives you two different methods for recording: Wizard Mode and Advanced Mode. Wizard Mode is the easiest method; it guides you step-by-step through the recording process. Advanced Mode is for more knowledgeable users--those who want to customize the recording process.

You can use RealEncoder in the following ways:

•	Record existing audio and video files

•	Record from media devices

•	Broadcast live content

See Also:

About bandwidth


About bandwidth

Bandwidth, also known as bitrate, is the amount of data that can be sent through an Internet or network connection during a set period of time. Bandwidth is measured in kilobits per second (Kbps). Standard modems are commonly referred to by the bitrate they are able to receive, for example, 14.4, 28.8, and 56 Kbps. These designations may already be familiar to you.

In addition to these standard bandwidths, you can record clips for bitrates up to 100 Kbps, 200 Kbps, or more. These higher bandwidths, however, are generally more typical of corporate LANs or entertainment-based Web sites.

Keep in mind that the bandwidth a connection is capable of is greater than the average bandwidth carried across it. For that reason, the templates for 28.8 Kbps connections actually only use approximately 20 Kbps, while a 56 Kbps connection template actually uses about 34 Kbps.

These constraints can affect your recording in many ways. You sometimes have to compromise between reaching the largest audience (with the lowest-speed connections) and the quality of your work. Fortunately, RealEncoder comes equipped with a Recording Wizard that helps you maximize the quality of your content.

See Also:

Creating RealAudio and RealVideo

Creating bandwidth negotiated files


Recording existing media files

RealAudio and RealVideo clips may be created from previously-captured digital audio or video files.

The following audio and video formats are supported by RealEncoder. It is recommended that you use uncompressed files only:

•	Audio (.au)

•	Waveform (.wav)

•	Uncompressed Video for Windows (.avi)

•	Uncompressed QuickTime for Windows (.mov)

To create RealAudio or RealVideo from an existing file using the Recording Wizard:

1.	Start RealEncoder. If RealEncoder is already open, select New Session from the File menu.

2.	If RealEncoder opens in Advanced Mode, click the Wizard Mode button.

The New Session dialog box opens.

3.	Select Record from File and click OK.

The Recording Wizard opens to the Introduction page.

4.	Click Next.

The Source File page opens.

5.	Use the Browse button to locate the audio or video file that you will use as the source for your recording.

6.	Click Next.

The Media Clip Information page opens.

7.	Enter the Title, Author, and Copyright information in the provided spaces.

This information will appear in the viewer's RealPlayer when your clip is played. This step is optional.

8.	Click Next.

The Target Audience page opens.

9.	Select the Target Audience--the connection speed for most of your viewers, and click Next.

The Audio Format page opens if your source contains audio. If not, skip the next step.

10.	Select the type of audio that your file consists of (if applicable), and click Next.

The Video Quality page opens if your source contains video. If not, skip the next step.

11.	Select the video quality for your output file (if applicable), and click Next.

The Output File page opens.

12.	Enter the name and directory of your final, recorded RealMedia file, and click Next.

The Prepare to Record page opens.

13.	Review all information regarding your file. If it is correct, click Finish.

You are returned to the main RealEncoder window.

14.	Click Start to begin recording.

15.	Click Stop if you want to end the recording before the input source stops.

The Recording Complete dialog box opens. You can also press Shift and click Stop together to bypass this dialog box and return directly to the main window.

16.	Click OK to return to the main window.

17.	To experience your recording, click the Play button.

You must have RealPlayer installed to play the RealMedia file.

See Also:

Recording existing files: Advanced Mode

Requirements: Recording existing files to RealAudio or RealVideo


Recording audio or video from a media device

With RealEncoder, you can record RealAudio and RealVideo from many types of media devices: live microphone input, live video camera input, audio tape, video tape, or satellite feeds.

Before you begin, make sure that your media device is properly connected and is working correctly.

To create RealAudio or RealVideo from media devices using the Recording Wizard:

1.	Start RealEncoder. If RealEncoder is already open, select New Session from the File menu.

2.	If RealEncoder opens in Advanced Mode, click the Wizard Mode button.

The New Session dialog box opens.

3.	Select Record from Media Device and click OK.

The Recording Wizard opens to the Introduction page.

4.	Click Next.

The Prepare Media Device page opens.

5.	Select the Input Source(s), audio or video.

6.	If you select a video source, specify whether you are using a video capture card or a video camera connected directly to your computer's external port.

7.	Click Next.

The Media Clip Information page opens.

8.	Enter the Title, Author, and Copyright information in the provided spaces.

This information will appear in the viewer's RealPlayer when your clip is played. This step is optional.

9.	Click Next.

The Target Audience page opens.

10.	Select the Target Audience--the connection speed that you believe your viewers will have, and click Next.

The Audio Format page opens if your source contains audio. If not, skip the next step.

11.	Select the type of audio that your content consists of (if applicable). If you are recording only audio content, and your media device supports stereo output, select Enable Stereo Encoding.

12.	Click Next.

The Video Quality page opens if your source contains video. If not, skip the next step.

13.	Select the video quality for your output file (if applicable), and click Next.

The Output File page opens.

14.	Enter the name and directory of your final, recorded RealMedia file, and click Next.

The Prepare to Record page opens.

15.	Review all information regarding your file. If it is correct, click Finish.

You are returned to the main RealEncoder window.

16.	Click Start to begin recording.

17.	Monitor the audio and/or video and click Stop to finish recording

The Recording Complete dialog box opens. You can also press Shift and click Stop together to bypass this dialog box and return directly to the main window.

18.	Click OK to return to the main window.

19.	To experience your recording, click the Play button.

You must have RealPlayer installed to play the RealMedia file.

See Also:

Recording from a media device: Advanced Mode

Requirements: Recording live video into RealAudio or RealVideo


Broadcasting live content

In addition to creating RealAudio and RealVideo files from your media sources, you can use RealEncoder to broadcast your live content over the Internet or a corporate LAN. You must have access to a RealServer in order to use this feature.

To broadcast live content using the Recording Wizard:

1.	Start RealEncoder. If RealEncoder is already open, select New Session from the File menu.

2.	If RealEncoder opens in Advanced Mode, click the Wizard Mode button.

The New Session dialog box opens.

3.	Select Live Broadcast and click OK.

The Recording Wizard opens to the Introduction page.

4.	Click Next.

The Prepare Media Device page opens.

5.	Select the Input Source(s), audio and/or video.

6.	If you select a video source, specify whether you are using a video capture card or a video camera connected directly to your computer's external port.

7.	Click Next.

The Media Clip Information page opens.

8.	Enter the Title, Author, and Copyright information in the provided spaces.

This information will appear in the viewer's RealPlayer when your clip is played. This step is optional.

9.	Click Next.

The Target Audience page opens.

10.	Select the Target Audience--the connection speed that you believe your viewers will have.

11.	Click Next.

The Audio Format page opens if your source contains audio. If not, skip the next step.

12.	Select the type of audio that your content consists of (if applicable). If you are encoding only audio content, and your media device supports stereo output, select Enable Stereo Recording.

13.	Click Next.

The Video Quality page opens if your source contains video. If not, skip the next step.

14.	Select the video quality for your output file (if applicable), and click Next.

The RealServer Information page opens.

15.	Enter the name, port, and password of the RealServer that you will use for your broadcast. Plus, you must enter a filename that users will use to access the broadcast.

You may also specify a filename and location for an archive of your broadcast. Select Archive Broadcast to File, then enter a file name or click Save As to select an output file.

16.	Click Next.

The Prepare to Record page opens.

17.	Review all information regarding the broadcast. If it is correct, click Finish.

You are returned to the main RealEncoder window.

18.	Click Start to begin recording.

19.	Monitor the audio and/or video and click Stop to finish recording.

The Recording Complete dialog box opens. You can also press Shift and click Stop together to bypass this dialog box and return directly to the main window.

20.	Click OK to return to the main window.

21.	To experience your recording, click the Play button.

You must have RealPlayer installed to play the RealMedia file.

See Also:

Broadcasting live content: Advanced Mode


Recording existing files: Advanced Mode
Recording files: Advanced Mode

Advanced Mode allows you to more closely control the recording process. You can select the exact recording template, including custom templates. Only experienced users should use Advanced Mode.

To create a RealAudio or RealVideo file from an existing file using Advanced Mode:

1.	From the RealEncoder main window, choose Advanced Mode from the Options menu.

2.	Click New Session from the File menu.

The New Session dialog opens.

3.	In the Input Source section, select File.

4.	Click the Browse button to locate the audio or video file that you will use as the source for your recording.

In the Output section, RealMedia File is selected automatically.

5.	Click the Save As button to choose a directory and filename for the recorded file.

6.	Click Save.

7.	Click OK.

The New Session dialog closes, returning to the RealEncoder main window.

8.	Enter the Title, Author, and Copyright information for your output file. These fields are optional.

9.	Select Mobile Download if you wish to create content that can be downloaded by a RealPlayer and transferred to Mobile Players such as the Audible Player for deferred playback.

10.	Select Selective Recording if you wish RealPlayer and RealPlayer Plus users to be able to save your RealVideo or RealAudio file to their computer.

11.	In the Recording Templates list box, select the template for the target audience you want to encode your file for.

You may select more than one template, see Multiple-Template Recording for more information.

12.	Click Start to begin the recording process.

When recording is complete, a message appears indicating the actual bitrate of the RealMedia file.

If RealEncoder is unable to record the file at the selected bitrate, you may need to re-record the file with a different template.

13.	Click OK when the recording is complete.

See Also:

Recording existing media files


Multiple-template recording

With multiple-template recording, you can reach the widest possible audience while still providing high-bandwidth users with the best listening and viewing experience. Recording with multiple templates will create several copies of your recording, optimized for different connection speeds. You can then create links to these different recordings so that the user can choose which file will work best with his or her connection.

Multiple-template recording is only available in Advanced Mode.

To record using multiple templates:

1.	Using Advanced Mode, set up a recording session.

2.	Select templates by pressing the Ctrl key and clicking on as many templates as you need.

Each template should be a different bitrate, for example a 28 Kbps template, a 56 Kbps template and a 200 Kbps template.

3.	Click Start.

The Multiple Template Encoding dialog box appears.

4.	If you are creating bandwidth negotiated files select Bandwidth Negotiation, otherwise leave this box unselected. For more information, see Creating Bandwidth Negotiated Files.

5.	Click Begin. The recording process starts.

The Multiple Templates dialog box will remain visible during recording, and you will be able to monitor audio levels and video output.

6.	Click OK when the "Recording Complete" message appears.

7.	You will not be able to preview the bandwidth negotiated files until the directory containing the files is posted on a RealNetworks RealServer. If you recorded them as individual files, you may now view them with the RealPlayer.

8.	Click Close to close the Multiple Template Encoding dialog.

See Also:

Pre-defined templates

Recording existing files: Advanced Mode


Recording from a media device: Advanced Mode
Recording from media device: Advanced Mode

Advanced Mode allows you to more closely control the recording process. You can select the exact recording template, including custom templates. Only experienced users should use Advanced Mode for recording from a media device.

To create a RealAudio or RealVideo file from a media device using Advanced Mode:

1.	From the RealEncoder main window, choose Advanced Mode from the Options menu.

2.	Click New Session from the File menu.

The New Session dialog opens.

3.	In the Input Source section, select Media Device.

4.	Select the media device that you will record from: audio and/or video.

5.	If you select a video source, specify whether you are using a video capture card or a video camera connected directly to your computer's external port.

6.	In the Output section, select RealMedia File.

7.	Click the Save As button to choose a directory and filename for the recorded file.

8.	Click Save.

9.	Click OK.

The New Session dialog closes, returning to the RealEncoder main window.

10.	Enter the Title, Author, and Copyright information for your output file. This step is optional.

11.	Select Mobile Download if you wish to create content that can be downloaded by a RealPlayer and transferred to Mobile Players such as the Audible Player for deferred playback.

12.	Select Selective Recording if you wish RealPlayer and RealPlayer Plus users to be able to save your RealVideo or RealAudio file to their computer.

13.	In the Recording Templates list box, select the template for the target audience you want to encode your file for.

14.	Click Start to begin the recording process.

When recording is complete, a message appears indicating the actual bitrate of the RealMedia file.

If RealEncoder is unable to record the file at the selected bitrate, you may need to re-record the file with a different template.

15.	Click OK to close the encoding complete message.

See Also:

Recording audio or video from a media device


Broadcasting live content: Advanced Mode

Advanced Mode allows you to more closely control your live broadcasting. You can select the exact recording template, including custom templates. Only experienced users should use Advanced Mode for live broadcasting.

To broadcast live content using Advanced Mode:

1.	From the RealEncoder main window, choose Advanced Mode from the Options menu.

2.	Click New Session from the File menu.

The New Session dialog opens.

3.	In the Input Source section, select Media Device.

4.	Select the media device that you will broadcast from: audio and/or video.

5.	If you select a video source, specify whether you are using a video capture card or a video camera connected directly to your computer's external port.

6.	In the Output section, select Live Broadcast.

7.	Enter the name, port, and password of the RealServer that you will use for your broadcast. Plus, you must enter a filename that users will use to access the broadcast.

You may also specify a filename and location for an archive of your broadcast. Select Archive Broadcast to File, then use the Save As button to select an output file.

8.	Click OK.

The New Session dialog closes, returning to the RealEncoder main window.

9.	Enter the Title, Author, and Copyright information. This step is optional.

10.	Select Mobile Download if you wish to create content that can be downloaded by a RealPlayer and transferred to Mobile Players such as the Audible Player for deferred playback.

11.	Select Selective Recording if you wish RealPlayer and RealPlayer Plus users to be able to save your broadcast to their computer.

12.	In the Recording Templates list box, select the template for the target audience you want to broadcast for.

13.	Click Start to begin broadcasting, and click Stop to end the broadcast.

When your broadcast is complete, a message appears indicating the actual bitrate of the RealMedia file.

14.	Click OK to close the encoding complete message.

See Also:

Broadcasting live content


Tips and Tricks

RealEncoder comes with a variety of options that allow you to create the highest-quality streaming media.

Because there is no single best process for delivering all types of streaming audio and video, RealEncoder provides several ways in which you can customize and streamline your recording.

Follow these links for more information:

Choose and modify recording templates

Performance improvement tips

Producing high-quality audio

Producing high-quality video

Monitoring recording statistics

Editing your media files


Recording templates

This section describes how to choose the recording template that best suits your needs and how to customize a template if necessary. You can only choose and customize templates using Advanced Mode.

The primary reason RealEncoder comes with a variety of templates is that every audio or video clip has different content and bandwidth considerations. For example, you would use one template to deliver a speech over a 28.8 Kbps modem, and another to deliver a music video over an ISDN connection.

Before you begin recording, you must make decisions about the appropriate settings for different types of audio and video input. RealEncoder supplies several pre-defined templates to assist users in making those decisions without having to know how to use the advanced settings. You can also adjust these templates or define a new template for the type of content you are recording.

See Also:

Pre-defined templates

Creating new templates

Creating bandwidth negotiated files


Pre-defined templates

Each pre-defined recording template is optimized for a particular type of audio and video content as well as for bandwidth. Select a template that best suits your needs. RealEncoder also allows you to record files using more than one template. See Multiple-Template Recording for more information.

It is recommended that if you want to change some of the settings, save the template as a new template to avoid overwriting the pre-defined template.

The following table lists all templates included with RealEncoder:

Template Name	Audio Codec	Video Bitrate (Kbps)	Total Bitrate (Kbps)	Video Frame Rate
Audio 28.8, Music – Mono	16 Kbps Music - High Response	n/a	16	n/a
Audio 28.8, Voice	16 Kbps Voice - Wideband	n/a	16	n/a
Audio 28.8, Music – Stereo	20 Kbps Music Stereo	n/a	20	n/a
Audio 56K Dial-Up Modem, Music - Mono	32Kbps Music Mono	n/a	32	n/a
Audio 56K Dial-Up Modem, Music - Stereo	32 Kbps Music Stereo	n/a	32	n/a
Audio 56K ISDN, Music – Mono	40 Kbps Music Mono	n/a	40	n/a
Audio 56K ISDN, Music – Stereo	40 Kbps Music - Stereo	n/a	40	n/a
Audio 112K, Dual ISDN,  Music - Mono	80 Kbps Music Mono	n/a	80	n/a
Audio 112K, Dual ISDN, Music - Stereo	80 Kbps Music - Stereo	n/a	80	n/a
Video 28.8, High Action	6.5 Kbps Voice	13.5	20	Optimal Sharp
Video 28.8, Slide Show *	12 Kbps Music	8.0	20	.25 fps
Video 28.8, Talking Heads	5 Kbps Voice	15	20	Optimal Smooth
Video 56K Dial-Up Modem, Music	12 Kbps Music	22.0	34	Optimal Smooth
Video 56K Dial-Up Modem, Voice	6.5 Kbps Voice	27.5	34	Optimal Smooth
Video 56K ISDN, Music	16 Kbps Music - High Response	29.0	45	Optimal Smooth
Video 56K ISDN, Voice	8.5 Kbps Voice	36.5	45	Optimal Smooth
Video 112K Dual ISDN, Music	16 Kbps Music - High Response	64.0	80	Optimal Normal
Video 112K Dual ISDN, Voice	16 Kbps Voice - Wideband	64.0	80	Optimal Normal
Video High-Bite Rate 200K, Music	16 Kbps Music - High Response	184.0	200	Optimal Normal
Video High-Bite Rate 200K, Voice	16 Kbps Voice - Wideband	184.0	200	Optimal Normal
Video High-Bite Rate 300K, Music	16 Kbps Music - High Response	284.0	300	Optimal Normal
Video High-Bite Rate 300K, Voice	16 Kbps Voice - Wideband	284.0	300	Optimal Normal
Note: the total bitrate is a combination of the audio codec and the video bitrate. The total bitrate for each template is slightly less than the total bitrate of the bandwidth of the connection.

See Also:

Recording templates

Creating new templates

Creating bandwidth negotiated files


Creating new templates

Each template is a mix of various codecs (compression/decompression algorithms) and settings. Audio-only templates consist of only an audio codec. Video templates consist of an audio codec, video codec, video bitrate, total bitrate, frame rate, and recording speed.

The quality of the recorded output is effected by these settings and by the actual content. Fixed camera shots, amount of motion, and multiple camera shots can all determine the quality of your output . If one of the pre-defined templates does not achieve what you are looking for, try creating a new template.

Templates can only be modified using Advanced Mode.

To modify a recording template:

1.	Choose Advanced Mode from the Options menu.

2.	Select a template from the Recording Templates list and click Settings.

The Template Settings dialog box opens.

3.	Enter the name of the new template in the Template Name field and click Save.

Warning: You should always save a template under a new name if you plan on modifying its settings. Otherwise, you will overwrite the existing template, deleting it permanently.

4.	Select an audio codec. They are arranged by bitrate and type of content.

5.	Select a Video codec. RealEncoder has two video codecs available, RealVideo (Standard) and RealVideo (Fractal).

6.	Select the total bitrate for the entire encoded file. The video bitrate will be total bitrate less the audio bitrate.

Generally, you should reduce the expected total bitrate by 25% to compensate for connection and packet overhead. For example, choose 20 Kbps for a 28.8 Kbps modem.

7.	Choose a Frame Rate setting:

•	Optimized Frame Rate lets RealEncoder automatically adjust the frame rate according to the content. You specify whether you want sharper images, smoother motion, or somewhere in between.

For example, if you chose Sharpest Image, and a person who is talking begins to gesture or move around quickly, the frame rate decreases as the motion speeds up and increases as the motion slows down. The image sharpness remains constant throughout.

•	Fixed Frame Rate gives you the option of forcing the output to emphasize image clarity or motion smoothness, and is adjusted by moving the slider.

For example, if your content contains a lot of motion, set the slider closer to the 15 fps setting. The resulting video image will be less clear but will exhibit smoother motion.

8.	Choose an Encoding Speed by moving the slider.

It is recommended that you leave the slider at Normal Encoding if you are recording existing files. The faster you encode (record a RealMedia file), the more your output quality will suffer.

The encoding speed slider will be disabled if you do not have a recording session open to record a file. Encoding speed only affects file recording, and is disabled during live recording.

9.	Click Save to save the template with the new settings.

10.	Click Close to close the Template Settings dialog.

See Also:

Recording templates

Pre-defined templates

Creating bandwidth negotiated files


Creating bandwidth-negotiated files

Bandwidth negotiated files allow you to provide the user with the best quality a connection can handle without the user having to explicitly choose from separate clips recorded for different speeds. The process is transparent to users, and you can configure your site to automatically serve the appropriate file.

When you create bandwidth negotiated files, you record using multiple templates and each recorded file is placed in a directory. You then link your Web page to the directory where the files are located, a RealServer chooses a file based on connection speed, and the user's RealPlayer automatically plays your file. You can only use bandwidth negotiation with a RealServer.

To provide content in multiple formats without bandwidth negotiation, your Web site must have a separate hypertext link and page for each format or template.

Refer to the RealAudio and RealVideo Content Creation Guide for more information.

See Also:

Recording templates

Pre-defined templates

Creating new templates


Performance improvement tips

RealEncoder has several features that allow you to improve performance and increase efficiency while recording your media clips.

See Also:

Disabling viewers

Live capture-to-file

Drag-and-drop recording


Disabling viewers

By disabling the input source window, the output source window, and the audio level meter during live recording, you can increase the frame rate of your recorded file and decrease the time it takes to record your clip.

To disable viewers during live recording:

1.	Open the View menu.

A checkmark is placed next to the viewers that are currently active:

•	Input Source

•	Encoded Output

•	Audio Meter

2.	Select a viewer to disable it.

See Also:

Performance improvement tips

Live capture-to-file

Drag-and-drop recording


Live capture-to-file

If you have a real-time capture station, you can use it to capture and compress directly into RealMedia format. The output of a video player or audio player can be recorded by RealEncoder to a RealMedia file instead of a Live Broadcast.

This process eliminates the need to create and store intermediate audio or video files, which are very large and can take considerable disk space. It is also the fastest way to capture content like breaking news clips when time-to-post is important.

See Also:

Performance improvement tips

Disabling viewers

Drag-and-drop recording


Drag-and-drop recording

RealEncoder supports drag-and-drop recording. You must be in Advanced Mode to use this feature.

To use drag-and-drop with RealEncoder:

1.	Click an input file icon and drag it onto an open RealEncoder window.

This opens an advanced session with path and file name information entered appropriately.

2.	Enter any descriptive information (title, author, and copyright) and customize recording settings before clicking Start.

See Also:

Performance improvement tips

Disabling viewers

Live capture-to-file


Producing high-quality audio

This section describes how to successfully create good quality sound for your RealAudio or RealVideo clips. Follow these tips in order to get the best quality from the audio in your recorded files:

•	Use high-quality source files or recording input device.

•	If you are not doing a live broadcast, capture or "digitize" the sound to a supported file format such as a .wav or .au whenever possible.

This allows you to use a sound editor to adjust the amplitude of your signal to maximize the available dynamic range. If you do not adjust the signal, the resulting RealMedia file may sound flat.

•	If your original audio file signal exceeds the acceptable amplitude range, the file may be "clipped." Clipping can give rise to clicks or pops on playback. If your source file contains a clipped signal, your final RealMedia file will have high-frequency background noise or static. Lowering the input volume will help reduce clipping.

•	Eliminate any DC offset either while recording or later with an audio editor. This removes low frequency noise.

•	When recording live-source audio, you have less opportunity to manipulate your input signal. Be sure that volume levels are prepared and tested before recording.

•	Cut any unnecessarily long silences from the beginning or end of the output file to conserve space.

See Also:

Recording with multiple codecs

Synchronizing audio and video

Using the Audio Level meter

Volume control


Recording with multiple codecs

Use a CD-quality sampling rate (44.1 kHz), sampling width (16-bit), and two channels (stereo) when creating an input file that you intend to record using multiple audio codecs. Stereo audio codecs will not encode mono audio input, but mono audio codecs will accept stereo audio input.

See Also:

Producing high-quality audio

Synchronizing audio and video

Using the Audio Level meter

Volume control


Synchronizing audio and video

The following sampling rates for your source audio will ensure that the audio remains synchronized with video or other time-critical media. Sampling rates are lower than the default input rates. For fuller sound, use the higher sampling rates.

Codec	Sampling Rate
14.4	8, 16, or 32 kHz
5 Kbps voice	8, 16, or 32 kHz
6.5 Kbps voice	8, 16, or 32 kHz
8.5 Kbps voice	8, 16, or 32 kHz
15.2 Kbps voice	8, 16, or 32 kHz
16 Kbps voice	16 or 32 kHz
8 Kbps music	8, 16, or 32 kHz
12 Kbps music	8, 16, or 32 kHz
16 Kbps music High response	11.025, 22.05, or 44.1 kHz
16 Kbps music Med response	11.025, 22.05, or 44.1 kHz
16 Kbps music Low response	8, 16, or 32 kHz
20 Kbps music stereo	8, 16, or 32 kHz
40 Kbps music mono	11.025, 22.05, or 44.1 kHz
40 Kbps music stereo	8, 16, or 32 kHz
80 Kbps music mono	11.025, 22.05, or 44.1 kHz
80 Kbps music stereo	8, 16, or 32 kHz
See Also:

Producing high-quality audio

Recording with multiple codecs

Using the Audio Level meter

Volume control


Using the Audio Level meter

While you record RealAudio or RealVideo clips, you can monitor the Audio Level to be sure you are encoding the optimal dynamic range. Green indicates a normal reading. Red warns that you are close to an over-modulated input. The best sound quality will occur when the top red bar is often lit but the clipping indicator (the red light above the meter) is never lit.

Clear the clipping indicator during recording by clicking on it. This allows you to track if audio clipping is occurring without watching the audio level constantly.

See Also:

Producing high-quality audio

Recording with multiple codecs

Synchronizing audio and video

Volume control


Volume control

While recording, you can adjust or monitor the volume using the Windows Volume Control window.

To adjust the recording volume:

1.	Select Volume Control from the Options menu.

The Volume Control window opens.

2.	In the Volume Control window, select Properties from the Options menu.

The Properties window displays.

3.	Select Recording to adjust the input recording volume. (Playback adjusts the level of the volume you hear while you are recording, not the volume RealEncoder uses.)

4.	Select from the list of volume controls the type of inputs you will be using and click OK.

The Recording Control window opens.

5.	Select which recording inputs to use by choosing the Select box for each input.

6.	Adjust the sound level by moving the sliders up or down.

Remember, if the volume is too high, the recorded sound may be clipped and appear distorted. If the volume is too low, it will be difficult to hear. Use the audio level meter in the RealEncoder window to monitor the level during recording.

7.	Close the Recording Control window and return to the RealEncoder.

See Also:

Producing high-quality audio

Recording with multiple codecs

Synchronizing audio and video

Using the Audio Level meter


Producing high-quality video

This section describes the type of video input needed to successfully create quality RealVideo clips. Tips are given for recording existing files and for recording from external devices.

See Also:

Existing video files

External audio and video sources

Image Size

Image cropping


Existing files

In order to get high quality output, your existing files should meet the following requirements You can use any size image, but the height and width of the video will be automatically cropped to a multiple of 16.

AVI files:

•	AVI files should have a 24-bit color depth

•	The standard video frame size for the Internet is 176 x 144

•	Files should be uncompressed for best results

•	Indeo drivers must be installed on your machine for the encoder to be able to open .avi files created with the YUV9 format. Indeo drivers are available from the Intel Web site (http://www.intel.com). However, if you captured an AVI file on the same machine as RealEncoder, the encoder typically has no problem opening it.

QuickTime files:

•	24-bit RGB QuickTime video files

•	8-bit or 16-bit mono and stereo audio

•	Files must be uncompressed

See Also:

Producing high-quality video

External audio and video sources

Requirements: Recording existing files to RealVideo


External audio and video sources

When using external audio and video sources, you must start with the best possible quality. In particular, different video formats yield different qualities when captured (digitized). Additionally, video playback devices commonly have two types of video outputs, S-video and composite. S-video produces better results.

The common video formats in order of quality are:

•	Betacam-SP, also known simply as Beta. This format is common among video production professionals.

•	Laserdisc

•	S-VHS or Super-VHS

•	VHS

See Also:

Producing high-quality video

Existing video files

Requirements: Recording live video into RealVideo


Image Size

RealEncoder supports any size image, but will automatically crop the height and width to multiples of 16. The most common sizes are 176 x 144 pixels or 320 x 240 pixels. An image size of 160 x 120 is also supported. Live capture image size is controlled through Set Video Format under the Options menu, and is dependent upon the video capture hardware installed.

See Also:

Producing high-quality video

Image cropping


Image cropping

The cropping feature allows you to record any section of a video image that you wish. By cropping an image, you can reduce the overall bitrate of your recorded clip.

To crop a video image:

1.	To edit the image cropping settings, select Crop Settings from the Options menu.

The Image Cropping window displays with a sample image from the session input. Notice the crop lines around part of the image. These lines show the portion of the image that will be recorded.

2.	Use Left, Top, Width, and Height buttons to adjust the size and location of crop lines.

3.	Click OK to return to the RealEncoder window.

4.	Select Crop Enabled from the Options menu.

5.	Click the Start button to start the recording process using the crop settings.

The cropped image appears in the Encoded Output viewer.

See Also:

Producing high quality video

Image Size


Monitoring recording statistics

You can monitor a variety of statistics while your RealAudio or RealVideo clip records. These include start and stop points, as well as audio and video bitrates, frame rates, motion quality and encoding speed settings. You can also monitor the output results of average bitrate, buffer time, frame rate, audio loss, and duration.

To monitor recording statistics:

•	Choose Statistics from the View menu.

The Statistics window opens. You can return to the RealEncoder window without closing the Statistics window.

See Also:

Tips and Tricks

About bandwidth


Editing your media files

Once created, RealMedia files (.rm) can be edited using the RealMedia Tools utility (rmtools.exe). Operations include stream cutting, copying, and pasting. You can also edit Title, Author, and Copyright information. Refer to the RealAudio and RealVideo Content Creation Guide for more information.

See Also:

Tips and Tricks