Generic support for distributed multimedia applications

The question of how to build a convenient application programming interface for multimedia applications in a distributed and heterogeneous environment is addressed. In accordance with the objectives of distribution transparency with node autonomy, presentation transparency, device independence, and the handling of resource allocation by the underlying system, a concept is developed for this new applications area. The model comprises resources operating as sources and sinks of transient and persistent information. These resources and their interactions appear as capabilities at the application programming interface. Applications do not distinguish between local and remote operations and resources. Authorization is integrated as the protection attribute of the capabilities. The model supports a level of abstraction at which unnecessary details-such as device dependencies-are made transparent to application programs