Live Streaming Equipment Guide: What you need to broadcast live

Dec 4, 2018 by

Ryan Campbell, StreamSpot

Live streaming is an incredible area of opportunity for Catholic evangelizers. However, the technical details of going live can be a major deterrent in launching this new and powerful digital tool. Here are some guidelines to help take the guesswork and confusion out of the process.

Understanding the technical essentials for live streaming

There are four technical essentials for live streaming: You’ll need:

1. A camera
2. An encoder
3. Power/electricity
4. Internet connectivity

The latter two items (power and internet) are fairly straightforward. But the first two essentials (camera and encoder) present a greater variety of complex options. Answer these five questions to gain a better understanding of the technology and equipment you need to start live streaming at your Catholic church, school, or diocese.

1

How many cameras do you need?

The first step is to consider how many cameras you would like to use for live streaming. Ask yourself:

• What does my space allow? Consider the size, shape, and configuration of your venue (i.e., where you plan to stream, such as a sanctuary or gymnasium). How many cameras does it take to adequately cover the space?
• How many cameras can we manage? A simple, one-camera setup is obviously the simplest solution. However, if you have a team that can assist with camera control and switching, a multi-camera setup will allow you to achieve a more professional and sophisticated live production.

2

How do you want to deliver your video feed?

Camera feeds can be delivered for streaming in two ways: 1) A hardwired, physical connection or 2) over a network via IP protocols. Here are some things to keep in mind as you consider which option is best for you.

Delivering video via a physical connection (HDMI or SDI)

With this option, you must use a video output connection to physically connect your camera(s) to an encoder. High definition cameras can output video via HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) or SDI (Serial Digital Interface).

Both HDMI and SDI transmit the same video quality, but there are some important differences to consider:

Transmitting video via HDMI:

• Pro: HDMI outputs are commonly found in most consumer camcorders.
• Pro: HDMI-enabled equipment is typically less expensive.
• Con: Can lose signal quality at lengths over 50 feet.

Transmitting video via SDI:

• Pro: Can transmit video over lengths up to 300 feet.
• Con: SDI cameras and switchers tend to be more expensive and are not commonly available at consumer stores.

Delivering video via IP protocols

Instead of using a physical HDMI or SDI connection, you can use IP video technology to transmit your feed(s) through an internet connection that is linked to the camera.

Advantages of IP video streaming:

• Extremely efficient method of delivering video.
• Camera does not need to have a physical connection with the encoder.
• You can use an internet browser on the same network to control or monitor the camera.
• Ideal for single camera streaming environments.

Disadvantages of IP video streaming:

• With this method, video is dependent on your network stability. An unreliable or slow internet connection can cause a low quality stream or even loss of signal to your camera.
• Not all encoders are compatible with IP video technology. If this is the method you choose, be sure to find an encoder or encoding software that supports IP video.
• Not ideal for multi-camera production. Switching between multiple IP cameras cannot be done with a simple, hardware-based switcher. Instead, you must use external encoding software to switch between video feeds.

3

Where do you want your camera to be located?

As you determine which streaming camera is best for you, here are three important factors that can steer your decision:

Live streaming camera placement

It’s important to consider where your camera(s) will be placed. In an ideal setup, you can inconspicuously mount your streaming camera(s) to a wall or ceiling. However, if you need to consistently access your camera for other purposes, mounting may not be the best option.

Camera zoom power (focal length)

Once you know where your camera will be placed, determine how much zoom you’ll need to get the shot you desire. If you plan to consistently stream at a wide angle, zoom capability may not be essential. If you’d like to produce a more dynamic, versatile, and attractive stream with occasional close-ups, purchase a camera with zoom capability that accounts for the size of your venue.

A camera’s zoom description is typically measured in “x” zoom (e.g., a 10x zoom will magnify the widest shot ten times). Use this to determine whether a camera provides the right focal length for your needs.

Live streaming camera control

Different camera models provide a wide variety of options when it comes to camera control during a live stream. If you want the ability to pan, tilt, or zoom your camera, PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) cameras are an excellent, easy-to-use solution.

With a robotic PTZ camera, one operator can use a control deck to broadcast or manipulate multiple cameras at one time. In fact, you can easily configure preset positions for frequently used shots. If your camera is mounted to a wall or ceiling, a novice camera operator can use these presets to easily call up pre-framed positions that focus on the altar or the ambo, for example.

4

Do you want to be able to go live automatically?

In addition to having the right camera, it’s crucial to find an encoder that fits your streaming needs as well. An encoder is used to convert the feed from your camera into a format that can be streamed to your viewers.

There are two types of encoders: hardware encoders or software-based encoders. If you’re looking for the most user-friendly option, use a hardware encoder that is devoted only to live streaming, such as the popular StreamSpot ONE encoder.

Advantages of hardware encoders (e.g., StreamSpot ONE)

• Simple to set up and easy to use.
• Operate independently (do not require a powerful Mac or PC computer).
• Can be configured to automatically start and stop at specific times (perfect for streaming Catholic Mass).
• Incredibly mobile (can run on battery power and connect to wifi or cellular networks).

If the amount of staff, volunteers, and technical expertise is limited at your church, school, or diocese, a hardware encoder is typically the best option. However, if you’re planning a more sophisticated, multi-camera live production that includes graphics (e.g., lower thirds or scoreboards), slides, or other design elements, a software-based encoder offers more feature-rich and production savvy broadcast options.

With a software-based encoder, all these production elements can be more easily managed and switched in one program. As a result, software-based encoders require greater expertise, powerful equipment (Mac or PC computer), and must be run by people with production, editing, and design experience.

Ryan Campbell is Customer Success Manager and an equipment specialist at StreamSpot.