Use this page to configure or edit relays. A streaming RTP relay forwards an RTP stream from a source to either a multicast or multiple unicast destinations. One of the primary functions of a relay is to minimize the usage of network bandwidth across limited bandwidth WAN links by receiving an single incoming stream and outputting either a multicast stream or serving multiple unicast streams.

Relays can also be used to distribute the load across multiple servers. The incoming stream can be provided to multiple destination servers and then redistributed to clients. Possible destination servers, include QuickTime, Darwin, or another DME. There are a number of methods for receiving an incoming stream. The most common is to receive an incoming stream into the Multi Protocol Server and then push the stream to the RTP Server (Out-10). It is also possible to receive a Push directly into the RTP server (In-3) or to receive an unannounced unicast or multicast. In this scenario you will need to manually place the multicast/unicast .sdp file from the source on the destination server.

Another important use case for providing input to the RTP server is from the VC Gateway. This input does not require explicit configuration. In addition to the output options for delivering multicast or unicast streams via Push mechanisms, streams are available via the RTPSP/RTP server without any explicit configuration. When clients open an RTSP stream to the .sdp file from a server, they will receive a reflected unicast of the incoming stream. This method can be used to distribute the stream to either client players or to multiple destination servers.