The RealFlash represents a fruitful combination of the Macromedia's Flash 2.0 (A sophisticated animation software) and the RealNetworks' RealSystem (A software package that streams the animation together with the audio), a combination that allows us to synchronise up a vector-based animations with the streaming audio. And, since the RealFlash can play on RealPlayer 5.0, it inherits all advantages of large user base, The bandwidth negotiation, distributed multicasting and the fast-forward/rewind control over the playback.

To make this technology work, we will need the audio capture/editing set-up. we will also need the copy of a Macromedia Flash 2.0 to create an animation and sync the audio, as well the RealPublisher 5.0 or the RealEncoder 5.0 to encode a file for RealPlayer. We should also get a RealFlash optimization kit (which includes the tools and documentation to streamline the playback), RealServer 5.0 (to stream up the files), and a RealPlayer 5.0 with the ActiveX Control and a Netscape plug-in (to view the files actually). These RealNetworks products can be obtained at RealNetworks site.

Now that we have a finished the Flash animation, there are two ways to encode a file for the streaming delivery over Web. First is to use a free RealEncoder; second is to use a RealPublisher, which retails for about US$49. An encoding process is identical with both of the tools, but a RealPublisher handles HTML and FTP for us.

If we dug out clams for the RealPublisher, all we need to do is enter a filepath and choose the audio codec (compression/de-compression algorithm), and the files will be automatically encoded and are FTPed to the server.

If we have opted for a free RealEncoder, the process is bit more complicated. Once we have finished the masterpiece, export animation as ".rm" (the RealMedia) file. Make sure to select an appropriate codec for audio: If our animation is complex, pick the lo-fi codec that squashes an audio. By same token, we can use the CD-quality audio codec if we have managed to keep the animation simple. Because the RealFlash runs on the Real's streaming media protocol, we will also need to create the text "metafile" which points to an actual media clip. FTP both files to the RealServer-equipped with Web server, and we are ready to rumble. However, if the test-run fails to rumble right, double check the filepaths, and make sure that you have all proper plug-ins. To make sure we have got a right plug-ins and the helper applications, go to a ShockRave site and let the JavaScript/Java wizards guide through the process.

Who Needs to Get Flashed?
The RealFlash is all about the animation (and little else). So, if we are a budding cartoonist looking to score the slot on Comedy Central, then a RealFlash worth it. Macromedia touts it as a perfect tool for the advertisements, the training courses, the movie trailers, and the karaoke.