The University of Texas has implemented ViewCast Niagara encoding systems and Niagara GoStream portable streaming encoders to capture and stream live video from any location with Internet access, as well as enable archived video for later Video-on-Demand viewing. ViewCast streaming equipment has enabled University of Texas Athletics to evolve its video content delivery model from a subscription-only service to free streaming content for live sporting events, as well as an extensive sports video-archive - all funded by sponsorships.

    With such an expansion of interest and activity, the university's production team needed multiple units to be available at multiple locations, often simultaneously. The program has expanded its coverage to 20 different intercollegiate teams, including football, baseball, soccer, women's volleyball, and many more. To catch a Longhorn sporting event via the Internet or watch replay of captured events, visit their online Athletics media center. They house rack-mounted ViewCast Niagara encoders in their mobile broadcasting vehicles, which enable the production crew to stream audiovisual content from up to three live events simultaneously. The portable Niagara GoStream encoders allow them to capture high-quality, live action sporting events on location from a variety of venues.

    The Niagara GoStream and GoStream Plus are portable streaming encoding units, designed for the most novice of users to make capturing and streaming video uncomplicated. GoStream and GoStream Plus feature three EZStream buttons, which allow users to select from pre-defined encoding profiles. With a portable, streamlined chassis design, intuitive front panel, and EASE control menus, streaming set-up is quick and easy. Pre-defined encoding profiles allow streaming to begin simply with the push of a button.

    "These systems provide plug-and-play encoding functionality that gives us everything we need to begin encoding right out of the box. We don't have to be experts in that area to make this work. Our production crews simply plug their cameras into the ViewCast encoders, connect to the Internet, push a button and start streaming," states Sigmon. "The most novice user can stream if they've got this user-friendly technology."

    ViewCast streaming encoders provide a wide range of video and audio inputs, as well as flexibility by including multiple bit-rate and format (codec) settings. This broad array of capabilities ensures that the production crews can capture the rapid-paced action of a game and deliver a high-quality viewing experience to the fans, regardless of the Internet connection speed or viewing format they choose.

    "The University of Texas is a great example of an organization that has been able to leverage our streaming technology to maximum benefit by providing a rich array of live and archived video content to sports fans. The university listened to its fans and responded with the high-quality, on-demand content they were asking for, and Niagara GoStream provided a cost-effective and reliable solution," commented Gary J. Klembara, senior vice president of sales at ViewCast.

    The power of the GoStream Plus platform allows users to encode multiple formats and resolutions simultaneously. It also features full D1 compression, and allows users to export files to storage devices via USB on the front panel. USB ports allow easy installation of software upgrades, encoding profiles and for transferring archive files. Full portability and mobility can be achieved with wireless and battery options that create a system that can be used anywhere there is a wireless network. This portable unit gives the user the flexibility to be mobile, but with the optional Dual Mount it has the power of a rack-mount unit.