A hardware encoder takes the SDI or HDMI output of your grading system and streams it without a computer in between. It gives the steadiest picture for daily use. Any encoder that streams RTMP works.
What to fill in
Copy these from your room’s Encoder page:
| Field on the encoder | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Server or URL | The server address from the encoder page (it starts with rtmps://) |
| Stream key or name | The stream key from the encoder page, complete |
| Platform or service | Custom RTMP |
Some encoders can’t do RTMPS; the encoder page also shows a plain RTMP address for those. Plain RTMP is not encrypted, so use RTMPS whenever your encoder supports it.
Recommended settings
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Codec | H.264 (High profile) |
| Resolution | 1920 × 1080 |
| Frame rate | Same as your project |
| Bitrate | 8 Mbit/s, constant (CBR) |
| Keyframe interval | 1 second |
| B-frames | Off, where the encoder lets you choose |
Tested encoder families
- Blackmagic Web Presenter and Blackmagic Streaming Encoder: add a custom platform with the server and key, or set them in the setup utility.
- AJA HELO: create a streaming profile of type RTMP with the server and key.
- Magewell Ultra Encode: add an RTMP server under Streaming with the server and key.
- Teradek: choose Manual (RTMP) as the streaming mode.
Exact menu names differ per firmware version; check your encoder’s manual when a field has another name.
Network
The encoder needs a stable upload of at least 12 Mbit/s for an 8 Mbit/s stream, and outgoing connections on port 1936 (RTMPS) or 1935 (RTMP). A wired connection is strongly recommended.