Encoding from a live source is supported with specific video capture cards. RealNetworks does not specifically recommend any one piece of third party software. However, there are several conversion products available which offer compatibility with RealPublisher input formats. There are some shareware products available on the Web and we offer other products from our RealStore site. Live encoding and live broadcasting are two methods used by the RealEncoder to encode from a live source.
Live encoding occurs when encoding is from a live source to a static file.
The inputs into your sound card and video capture device can be a microphone, CD, tape recorder or other media device such as a video camera, DVD or laserdisc. Live Broadcasting occurs when encoding is from a live source and the encoded stream is being broadcast over the internet live at the time of encoding. A RealAudio Server or RealServer is required for live broadcasting. The RealEncoder 5.0 can be used for live broadcasting so long as the hardware and drivers on the system support live broadcast encoding. If the system components do not support live broadcast encoding, there may not be an error message, but the live broadcast will not successfully occur.