Apache Flex Video Streaming

How to Use VideoDisplay for Live Streaming in Flex: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re working with Apache Flex and need to display a live streaming video, you might find yourself puzzled by the available options. A common question among developers is about utilizing the VideoDisplay object in MXML for streaming video from Flash Media Server (FMS). In this blog post, we’ll explore this problem and provide clear solutions to get you up and running with live streaming efficiently.

Understanding the Challenge

The VideoDisplay component in Flex offers a smooth way to showcase videos within your applications. However, there seem to be limitations regarding its capabilities, especially when it comes to live streaming. Developers often encounter questions such as:

  • Is it possible to attach a NetStream to VideoDisplay?
  • Why is there no attachStream() method like the previous Video object?

The confusion often stems from the documentation and the distinction between different video objects available in Flex.

Key Points to Note

  1. Live Streaming Options: The Flex documentation states that VideoDisplay supports various video sources, including streaming from FMS and camera feeds, but does not explicitly guide on using NetStream.
  2. Attach Method: Unlike the older Video object that allows attaching a NetStream directly, VideoDisplay does not have a method for doing so. This leads many developers to seek alternatives or reconsider their approach.

The Solution: Stick with Video Object for NetStream

After thorough investigation, it becomes clear that if you want to obtain data from Flash Media Server (FMS), your best option is to rely on the older Video object. Here are the specific reasons why:

Why Use Video Object?

  • NetStream Compatibility: You can utilize the attachNetStream() method with the Video object to connect it to a streaming source.
  • MXML Limitations: While the Video class is not based on UIComponent and may not be usable directly in MXML, there are workarounds and methods to integrate it within your Flex application.

What About VideoDisplay?

The VideoDisplay component can still be utilized for other types of video playback, such as playing fixed files or progressive downloads. However, for live streaming needs from FMS, the Video object is your go-to choice.

Caution with AttachCamera

When working with the attachCamera() method of the Video object, remember that it publishes local camera video to the server. Ensure you are handling this appropriately if you do not intend to share your local feed.

Conclusion

To summarize, if you’re aiming to display live video from Flash Media Server in your Flex application, the answer lies with the Video object and its capabilities to attach a NetStream. While VideoDisplay serves well in other contexts, it does not offer the functionality needed for effective live streaming.

Equipping yourself with this understanding will help you make informed decisions in your development efforts and enhance your application’s video playback features.

Feel free to reach out if you have further queries or need additional clarifications regarding Flex video handling!