Viewcast enables encoding and streaming video on-the-go

Westlake Village (CA) - ViewCast today introduced the Niagra GoStream device, which can encode and stream video through wired or wireless IP networks. The portable box is basically an encoding computer that does not require a keyboard, mouse or external monitor. Encoding settings are accessed from the front touch panel and video can be delivered out through the Ethernet ports or via Wi-Fi.

The GoStream provides full analog capture with composite and S-Video inputs on the front. For audio capture, the device also has two RCA and two XLR connectors on the front panel. The device even has a docking station for an iPod or Creative Zen video device.

Both a Gigabit and 10/100 Ethernet ports are available. A "backpack" sleeve gives the GoStream not only battery power for up to 6.5 hours, but contains Wi-Fi connectivity as well.

The device supports several video codecs including Windows Media, MPEG-4/H.264, MPEG-2, RealVideo, AVI and Flash. Multiple streams with different bit-rates can be broadcasted simultaneously. Encoding settings are craeted through a regular computer and then transferred to the GoStream via USB ports. "80% of the functionality can be accessed through the front panel and its 4-line LCD," ViewCast claims. An company representative told TG Daily that the device can output both streaming video and complete download on demand files.

Including the battery backpack, the GoStream Niagra sells for about $6000.