Onsite Encoding Requirements
Overview
This document will cover the technical requirements for a successful webcast when streaming
directly from a venue (client office, theater/hall, hotel conference center, or temporary space such as
an open field). If a location (venue) cannot accommodate any items listed, this must be addressed
during the first technical call with all parties.
Technical Requirements for Onsite Streaming Services
- An IP Address for each stream requested. Standard set-up is a primary and secondary
stream for redundancy purposes which, would mean two (2) assigned IP Addresses on two
ports. All cabling such as CAT 5/6, is to be provided by a venue representative “cable to
table”. - Each IP must have open access to the internet with the below listed requirements in place
- Publicly accessible, Static IP is preferred over a Dynamic IP - this is preferred but
private IPs with QoS will work. - Ports 80 and 1935 must be open and remain open for the full duration of any testing
or event. - Firewall, gatekeeper or other security protocols must be disabled if in place.
- IP, Alternate IP, Gateway, Subnet Mask, DNS, Alternate DNS.
- Publicly accessible, Static IP is preferred over a Dynamic IP - this is preferred but
- Network connectivity – Each encoding unit must have an individual port assigned that travels
a unique path out to the internet. If this cannot be accommodated, we recommend traveling
through separate network switch at a minimum. - Bandwidth requirements are no less than 5 Mbps per connection with standard
requirements and no less than 10 Mbps per connection for HD requirements. - Communications port – We recommend a wired third port for a communications laptop. This
is to allow for open communications without impacting any encoding device. Should this be
unavailable then a wireless network may be used in its place with the understanding that a
shared wireless network may have congestion due to usage and image communications. - One (1) dedicated phone line that can make national and/or international phone calls with an
accompanying handset - Dedicated clean power circuit of 20 AMPs with two (2) power strips/surge protectors
provided by venue.
Detailed network requirements documentation can be accessed here: https://webcasts.com/networkresources/
Broadcast Signal Requirements
The Audio Video signal requirements should be shared with any vendor secured by a client.
- Two (2) identical mixed program feeds via HD/SDI with embedded audio is recommend as a
broadcast standard. HDMI as a prosumer source may be accepted due to limitations with a
specific venue or A/V crew. - One (1) XLR mixed audio feed for audio back up.
- All Cables to be provided by the Audio/Video partner(s).
Location/Venue Logistics & Requirements
- Work area to have one (1) six-foot table with chairs accommodating up to three individuals.
Additional tables and chairs may be required should there be a need for additional
equipment and/or personnel. - Venue IT representative to be available at the location for all test times as well as the
event(s) - Any restrictions concerning access to location or venue must be communicated on the first
technical call by the client or location (venue) representative.
Glossary
- IP Address: A unique string of numbers separated by periods that identifies each computer
using the Internet Protocol to communicate over a network - Static IP / Dynamic IP: When a device is assigned a static IP address, the address does not
change. Most devices use dynamic IP addresses, which are assigned by the network when
they connect and change over time - Quality of Service (QoS): A control mechanism to provide high-quality communication over a
best-effort network by over-provisioning the capacity so that it is sufficient for the expected
peak traffic load - Network Switch: A networking device that connects devices together on a computer
network by using packet switching to receive, process, and forward data to the destination
device - Megabits per second (Mbps): A measure of data transfer speed (a megabit is equal to one
million bits) - HD/SDI: High-Definition / Serial Digital Interface
- HDMI: High-Definition Multimedia Interface