Learning Flash Media Server 3

Chapter 5. Two-Way Audio-Video Communications

Face-to-Face Communication

The dream of face-to-face communication via something like a combined television/ telephone has been around for at least the last 50 years. However, the promise of such communication between individuals in remote locations has only been realized and widespread lately. With open socket technology and high-speed Internet, such face-to-face audio/visual (A/V) communication over the Web is simple and becoming more common.

This chapter looks at the basic ingredients for creating a two-way A/V application using FMS3—either FMIS3 or the Development FMS3. FMSS cannot be used for interactive applications. The applications in this chapter all use classes and objects briefly discussed in previous chapters, especially in Chapter 3, which examined the Camera, Microphone, and Video object,s and the NetStream class. You might want to review Chapter 3 before getting started so that you’re less likely to get lost in the discussion.

The NetStream Bundle

It sometimes helps to think of the NetStream class as a pack mule. You load it up with different things and send it on its way. Once the stream arrives at its destination, it unloads its bundle to be received as audio and video. Like pack mules, every destination requires a different stream. So if you are sending a bundle to Kowloon, Sydney, Yokohama, Mumbai, and Lima, you’ll need five mules, one for each destination. As far as you the developer is concerned, you will need to create ...