Multimedia CD-ROM Servers

[Jim Schick]

We are looking at setting up a CD-ROM server in our Youth Services
department here at the public library. Right now we are using 5 disc
pioneer CD-changers on each of our pentium computers. What I envision
doing is networking the CD-ROMs to the Youth Services computer area,
enabling us to share the CD-ROMs and not having multiple copies of each
title we want access to (I understand the licensing involved). My
problem is this: I've heard that doing multimedia CD-ROMs over a network
off a server is difficult. Video seems to do OK, but the simultaneous
audio signals are what you have the trouble with. Having multiple users
accessing a CD on the server all wanting graphics and sound at the same
time makes me wonder if the hardware can provide all this
simultaneously. Is there anyone out there currently doing this type of
thing with multimedia programs, and if so, could you shed some light on
this topic?

--
Jim Schick
Automation Specialist
Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library
(913) 231-0594
jschick at tscpl.lib.ks.us