The .asf file is a streaming multimedia file scaled to fit within a network's bit rate boundary. Most .asf files were existing media files (such as audio or video files) that were converted to the Active Streaming format and scaled so that they can be streamed over the various networks. However, there are some .asf files that are created from scratch by combining various media files and saving them as an .asf file. This type of .asf file is analogous to a slide show, that is, it usually consists of an audio track and lots of images. This information can be placed on NetShow Server and streamed over a network to NetShow Player. .Asf files can also be played locally on a computer.
One other way of creating an .asf file is to have an ASF Real-Time Encoder write out its encoded information to an .asf file. This model of creating an .asf file allows you to turn a live event directly into an .asf file. The Multicast Content section discusses ASF streams and the ASF Real-Time Encoder online Help file discusses how to use the encoder to create an .asf file.
Some practical uses of .asf files might be to deliver training video, desktop slide presentations complete with audio (Microsoft® PowerPoint can convert presentations into .asf files), or audio with synchronized images. You can also embed scripting commands, which extends the ability of the .asf file so that it can invoke URLs, process feedback from the user, and execute client-side commands.
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