HD web video
Jul/094
High definition video or HD video as it is known, is digital video with higher resolution than the previous standards (i.e. SD video and DVD). This high resolution is achieved through new video file formats, which allow new codecs, certain performance optimizations (like deblocking) and a lot higher bandwidth(bitrate).
HD resolutions are noted with the number of lines and if it is progressive or interlaced stream. Thus 540p for instance means – resolution 960 x 540 pixels (assuming 16:9 aspect ratio) and progressive stream. Note that interlaced streams are primarily available for compliance with older standards like DVD.
Flash Video
Jul/091
FlashVideo(FLV) is the video format that Macromedia created for their FlashPlayer rich media browser plugin. Due to the fact that FlashPlayer plugin (now owned by Adobe) has a web presence in excess of 97%. It is safe to say that about every computer that connects to the internet can play video in FlashVideo format.
The file format of .FLV files is by design based on the h.263 standard. The newer FlashPlayer(9.0.0.29 or above) supports h.264/mp4 files which may have extension .flv(.f4v).
Video Sharing
Jul/092
Video sharing is a service that provides the ability to show your video on the web for the general audience or a targeted one on your website. Video sharing services are free(for the content owner/publisher), as opposed to video hosting services. In a sense video sharing is a synonym for “free video hosting“. It is usually personal or viral content and often intended as a community. As opposed to generic file sharing, video sharing is about the actual content and not it’s carrier(the files). This is achieved through a process called video streaming. The primary intent for video sharing services is personal use. Video sharing services are a great resource for viral marketing initiatives in order to create brand awareness.
For a more detailed explanation on the differences between video sharing services and video hosting services read Video Sharing vs. Video Hosting.