Patent ID: 7747798

Claim:
A portable media encoder comprising: a video input port configured to receive a real time video input from a video capture source; an audio input port configured to receive an audio input from an audio source; a digital output port for providing a digital output real time stream corresponding to the received video input and audio input; an encoding processor that converts the video input and the audio input into a streamable real time digital output format for transmitting through the digital output port; a housing including front and rear panels enclosing the encoding processor and providing at least one access panel providing user access to the video input port, the audio input port, and the digital output port, the housing having a size and configuration enabling a single individual to hand carry the encoder; a display screen mounted in the front panel and communicatively coupled to the encoding processor and operable display confirmation of encoding operations therefrom; a set of control buttons mounted on the front panel and communicatively coupled to the encoding processor and operable to provide preselected encoding parameters thereto, the control buttons including: a context-sensitive information button operable to provide operational information corresponding the current operational state of the portable media encoder to a user via the display screen; a menu button operable to provide user access to a series of menus services provided by the portable media encoder, whereby menu selections are displayed on the display; up and down selection buttons operable to enable a user to view menu choices displayed on the display; a select button operable to enable a user to select a menu choice; an encode and a stop button operable to enable a user to start and stop an encoding process using the portable media encoder; a plurality of discrete preprogrammed buttons, each enabling a user to start an encoding process with button specific encoding configuration information stored in the portable media encoder and wherein the specific encoding configuration information includes one or more of source type, output type, frame rate and resolution; and a lockout switch mounted in the rear panel, the lockout switch operative in a locked position to prevent changes to the operating state of the portable media encoder while the portable media encoder is operating.