What this is for
Help Alpha Geek Media deploy new all-in-one streaming servers that will allow our show hosts to stream their live shows once, and be automatically distributed across a large assortment of platforms on all manner of devices, video and audio, high bandwidth and low.
Right now, we are running proof-of-concept versions of these all-purpose servers across three channels, on aging, salvaged hardware. The concept has proven to be sound, but the servers are weak. To roll this out properly, and to ensure that the service works reliably, we need to up our hardware game.
What this means for fans
More shows from more hosts available LIVE on whatever device via whatever kind of Internet connection happens to be available when the show starts. Fewer missed live shows, more ways to tune in for either audio or video.
What this means for show hosts
Fire-and forget automatic distribution. Stream your show via the service of your choosing, press two buttons, and your live show is on computers, TVs, phones, tablets, Internet radio players, car stereos, game consoles and more. Take care of your most dedicated fans by being available wherever they are when you stream live.
The Fun Stuff: Special Episodes!
In addition to the awesome Perks that many network members have generously contributed, we have something different planned as community rewards at various funding levels.
At each milestone, you will unlock special "one of a kind" podcast episodes, and the hosts and content of each show will be voted on by the community. We will open up week-long voting pages that the community can use to choose two hosts and one topic (within reason) to become the special episode. Ever wanted to have Brian Ibbott and Turpster discuss the finer points of British Boy Bands? Itching to know what Tom Merritt and Darrell The Trek Nerd think of Pro Wrestling? This is your chance!
Participating hosts from the network:
- Hammond Chamberlain
- Joel Duggan
- Michael "Starman" Gaines
- Brian Ibbott
- Scott Johnson
- Jennie Josephson
- Tom Merritt
- Jocelyn Moffett
- Ryan Murphy
- Stephen Schleicher
- Darrell "The Trek Nerd" Skeels
- Jeannie Szarama
-
Mark "Turpster" Turpin
- Garrett Weinzierl
- Todd Whitehead
- Justin Robert Young
What the initial goal money will buy
Three Servers to replace the sketchy hardware that is currently driving the simulcasters on channels 1-3.
Streaming software version upgrades for the first 3 channels.
What the stretch goal money will buy
Fourth "Special Event" Server
Streaming software licenses for fourth server
High-throughput router
Server cooling system for all
Server Enclosure construction materials
Large backup battery for all
Portable video mixing desk for live events
Risks
This is a one-man operation. Something unforeseen could happen to me that would prevent me from building and deploying the systems.
Initial Goal: $3825.00
Unlocks: First TWO community-driven special episodes
Replacement servers for channels 1-3, including licenses for the video streaming software.
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Doghouse Systems has prepared special upgraded versions of their
Armor VS gaming rigs, refit to act as streaming video servers.
First Stretch Goal: $4925.00
Unlocks: Third community-driven special episode
Additional all-in-one encoding server for the Special Events / Test Channel.
License for video streaming software.
High-throughput router.
Second Stretch Goal: $5325.00
Unlocks: Fourth community-driven special episode
Server enclosure cooling equipment
Third Stretch Goal: $5650.00
Unlocks: Fifth community-driven special episode
Materials for construction of server enclosure
Fourth Stretch Goal: $6450.00
Unlocks: Sixth community-driven special episode
APC Smart-UPS XL 1000VA server enclosure battery
Extreme Stretch Goal: $8750.00
Portable video mixing desk to massively improve the quality of on-site event live streams (w00tstock, Nerdtacular, Dragon*Con, etc.)
