Bit Streaming (Cambridge (CIE) A Level Computer Science) : Revision Note
Bit streaming
What is bit streaming?
Bit streaming is the continuous flow of data (bits) sent over the internet or a network
Commonly used for real-time services like video, audio, or live broadcasts
Data is sent in small chunks so it can be played back immediately
Reduces the need to download the entire file before use
Bit streaming can be categorised into two types:
Real-time
On-demand
Real-time vs on-demand
Feature | Real-time streaming | On-demand streaming |
|---|---|---|
What is it? | Watching something live as it happens | Watching something whenever you choose |
Examples | Live sports, live news, online gaming, video calls | Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime |
Timing | Streamed and watched at the same time | You choose when to watch |
Delays (latency) | Needs low delay to feel live | Can handle small delays thanks to buffering |
Internet needed | Needs a strong and steady connection | Can adjust quality based on your connection (adaptive bitrate) |
Playback controls | Usually no pause or rewind during live events | You can pause, rewind, or skip as needed |
Factors affecting bit streaming
What factors can affect bit streaming?
There are two main factors to consider when using bit streaming, they are:
Bit rate
Broadband speeds
Bit rate
Bit rate is the amount of data able to be transmitted in a specified unit of time (usually seconds)
Feature | Higher bit rate | Lower bit rate |
|---|---|---|
Quality | Allows for higher quality content (HD / 4K) | Lower quality – more pixelation or blurriness |
Visual & audio clarity | Sharper and clearer images and sound | May look blurry, especially during fast movement |
Bandwidth usage | Uses more network bandwidth | Uses less bandwidth |
Streaming platforms will adjust bit rates based on network performance
Helps avoid buffering, even on weaker connections
Broadband speeds
Broadband speeds affects how well data can be streamed
Faster speeds = better quality and smoother playback
Aspect | High-speed broadband | Slow/restricted broadband |
|---|---|---|
Network capacity | Handles higher bit rates | Can’t support high bit rates |
Allows multiple devices to stream smoothly | Limited bandwidth affects overall network performance | |
Supports HD/4K quality | May force streams to use lower resolution | |
User experience | Smoother streaming with minimal buffering | Frequent buffering and interruptions |
Clear visuals and audio | Pixelation and lower sound quality | |
Ideal for real-time content (e.g. gaming, video calls) | Struggles with live or interactive services |
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