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Quick-Start Guide
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iFriends supports Microsoft Windows Media Encoder 9 to host live iFriends LiveStream sessions.
To use Windows Media Encoder 9, please read the instructions below. Microsoft Windows Media Encoder 7 is still supported, and the
instructions for using it are now available here.
LiveStream 9 is the new, easier-to-use version of LiveStream that works with Microsoft's Windows Media Encoder, version 9
Thank you for your interest in hosting your iFriends Video Chatroom through
iFriends's LiveStream technology. Please note: LiveStream works best
when you use modern high-end PC equipment, in particular:
Minimum 1.5ghz PC, minimum 128MB ram, and preferably a high-speed two-way internet
connection (such as DSL, 2-way Cable, T1/T3, etc). You must be using Windows 2000 or Windows XP.
Livestream WM9 will not work with Windows 95, 98 or ME.
If your environment falls short of these specifications, consider using a lower-impact hosting option, such as iFriends' own EasyCamTM or iFCam.
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One-time Installation & Setup
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From the same PC that you will host your live iFriends videochat session, download and install Microsoft's Windows Media Encoder 9 Series:
(Click here for the free download).
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Below, choose the Media Encoder configuration template that best describes your circumstances. Important:
Download it by right-clicking on the link, selecting "Save Target As", and save it to your desktop.
iFriends Modem
For chathosts who access the internet through a conventional
telephone line (i.e., modem), or who are using "slower" PCs.
Chathosts who experience difficulty with higher-speed configurations, such as "iFriends Regular" below, should
try this setting.
iFriends Regular
For chathosts who access the internet over higher-speed connections, such as Cable TV,
DSL or a dedicated "T-1" or higher network connection. Note: If you are using an older PC with limited system resources, and/or
experience difficulty with this setting, try iFriends Modem instead -- it's easier on your PC, and consumes less bandwidth.
iFriends Pro
For chathosts using the fastest, most
modern equipment (minimum 2ghz PC, minimum 256MB ram, high-speed hard disks, and preferably Windows 2000 or Windows XP), and
who access the internet over ultra-high-speed connections such as "T-1" or higher network connections, and who are using high-quality cams/camcorders.
Note: If you are using an older PC with limited system resources,
and experience difficulty with this setting, try iFriends Regular or iFriends Modem instead.
(Customized Settings: You may also use your own customized settings. However, in the event of technical difficulties with custom settings, iFriends is unable to provide
technical support. If you require technical support, you must be using one of the three recommended settings. If you choose to customize your settings, iFriends recommends that
you begin by customizing one of the three above templates)
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Each Time You Host
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Make sure no webcam or special video software is running, including iFCam.
Start Windows Media Encoder v. 9:
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Double-click on the Configuration template you downloaded during "one-time Installation & Setup" above.
(Windows Media Encoder v.9 will run, according to the settings contained within that file).
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Click the green "Start" button in the menu bar at the center top of your screen. (Alternatively, you can use the hotkey [ CTRL + SHFT + E ],
or select the "Start Encoding" option from the "Tools" menu.
Look for a small status message at the very bottom left of the window that says "Encoder Broadcasting". Do you see it?
If so, then your PC and cam are all set to stream on iFriends! All that's left to do is to create your iFriends videochat session!
(If you have trouble reaching this point, consult the "Help" feature in Windows Media Encoder or check your cam configuration.)
Initiate your iFriends videochat session:
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Sign in your chathost session at the Chathost Console, as usual.
On the same screen that you designate "All Audiences" or "Adults Only", select the "Windows Media Encoder" option, and click the "Click here to proceed" button.
(See screenshot).
At the bottom of the next screen, look for the "Livestream Preview Window", to ensure that iFriends can connect to your Windows Media Encoder v. 9
If you do not see your cam image in the preview window, follow the adjacent trouble-shooting instructions carefully.
(See screenshot).
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Once you have successfully completed the signup form, your LiveStream video chatroom is live on iFriends!
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Need Help?
Things not working the way they should? Check the LiveStream FAQ (Frequently-Asked Questions)
for additional information.
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Live Cams
