University of North Texas Pulls Ahead of the Curve in Distance Learning With OPTX International's ScreenWatch Software

Business Wire, April 18, 2001

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

CHICO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 18, 2001

By connecting ScreenWatch(TM) software to its computer education program, the University of North Texas brings distance learning to graduate level professionals. ScreenWatch is the first true-to-source computer screen capture and streaming solution. The leader in streaming software, its unique capabilities makes it ideal for incorporating demanding computer graphics including full-motion video or Flash animation into web-based tutorials.

With 27,000 students, the University of North Texas at Denton serves the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Paul Schlieve's goal is finding responsive ways of teaching distance education. But early experiments with two-way communication methods proved costly and time consuming. "We had classrooms filled with $100,000 worth of production equipment and ended up with blobs of color," reports Schlieve, associate professor in the Computer Education and Cognitive Systems Department. "ScreenWatch eliminated these problems."

With the introduction of effective distance learning courses using ScreenWatch, the university reduced the need for on-campus classes and increased the availability of Internet classes. Now students enjoy a balance between face-to-face and distance classes. The Internet offers students 24-hour access to class material, the students make better use of their time with less commuting, and the school is more competitive. "This is a win-win situation," says Schlieve. "ScreenWatch makes it simple since it's fully integrated with RealNetworks'(R) RealVideo(R) and SMIL technology, making comprehensive delivery of computer education accessible for students and simplifying technical support."

"ScreenWatch is a dream come true," states Schlieve. "This is the only software that allows us to stream computer screen activity with such quality." This software enables Schlieve to teach live and archived courses with ease and clarity. "ScreenWatch helped us to make Web-based education a success," Schlieve continues. "Streaming video and ScreenWatch helps to bring the rich experience associated with face-to-face instruction into the Internet environment."

ScreenWatch provides multiple concurrent streams in RealNetworks RealPlayer(R), making it easy to Webcast screen activity and PowerPoint presentations simultaneously. An optional utility converts ScreenWatch files into Windows Media Version 7 Screen Code Files, creating stand-alone playback with Windows Media Player. It provides streamable files at 30 fps from Windows Media Streaming Servers. ScreenWatch streams live or archived content at or below an economical 28.8 Kpbs bandwidth, supporting learners accessing content over dial-up or low-speed links. The software records computer screen activity using Windows 2000. Its enhanced optimizer for RealNetworks deployment further reduces packet loss. ScreenWatch supports RealServer on Linux, Solaris(TM), and HP-UX, as well as Windows 2000 and Windows NT systems.

OPTX serves organizations requiring high-quality, professional screen recording and playback for training, education, and promotion. Harvard University, MicroStrategy, Cadence, AtClassNow, RealNetworks, and CAD-TV have already adopted ScreenWatch, and it is distributed worldwide. For information, visit www.screenwatch.com, call 530/899-2100, or e-mail sales@optx.com.

NOTE: RealNetworks is a trademark of RealNetworks, Inc. ScreenWatch is a trademark of OPTX International.