This guide outlines how to Live Stream events and includes details of the technical requirements and how to monetize streaming and more.
- Hardware Encoder = The professional way to do a live stream is to use a Live Encoder will allow you to connect a camera live feed to the encoder and will send it directly to our servers for you to see on your live player. It essentially replaces the need for a Computer, Encoding Software, mobile Compatible codes and Capture Card.
- Software Encoder = The second way of doing it is to get a Camera, a Computer and a Capture Card. Then install Adobe Flash Media Live Encoder as well as h264 video codec and AAC audio codec on your system and connect the camera to the computer via the capture card.
- A Webcam = A very simple way to stream and used by many people for Skype etc. Register an account with Ustream, Justin.tv, Livestream, or Bambusers and it will allow you to stream your web camera without any additional software.
- Facebook and YouTube = A very simple way to stream. These accounts have inbuilt features to Live Stream directly from your phone or a Webcam and no additional software is required
- An IP Camera (more commonly known as a CCTV / Security Camera or Webcam = another simple way to live stream your event. Register an account with Ustream, Justin.tv, Livestream, or Bambusers and it will allow you to stream your Webcam or IP Camera without any additional software.
What’s the minimum internet speed that I will need to live stream an event?
First you need to know what bitrate are you going to use. If you wanted to live stream an event in HD (High Definition) a bit rate of 2,500kbp is recommended. In that instance you are going to need around 3-4 Mbit network connection in order to stream smoothly.
How much “broadband” would I use while live streaming an hour long event?
Based on the settings mentioned above you will use around 1.2GB ; this is particularly important to note if you are using a Mobile Broadband package.
Can I make a video of the event available on demand for people to watch?
Yes, Facebook and Youtube automatically make a copy of your broadcast. Alternatively, if you choose the Hardware or Software Encoding routes mentioned above you can use the recording options and then upload the video to YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive etc or to your own website.
Can I charge people to view videos on demand?
Yes, there are a number of ways but in summary, you can create and account with a special provider, input your camera / steaming settings and set how much you want people to pay in order to view the stream. The provider will then generate a piece of code which you can embed in your site. Click on the video below to see an example of a “Pay Wall on a video. After payment is processed (via PayPal) the person will receive a voucher code to access the video (Use 123456 as the code to skip the payment process and view the video below).
This provider will give you the option to pre-sell Tickets for the live stream, to restrict the stream to certain countries, to sell a pass offering access to multiple events (e.g. a monthly subscription) and so on.
In addition to a live stream you can upload videos recorded previously to this provider and make them available on an on-demand and Pay Per View basis. This is just a summary of the live stream process and options to monetize your content. If you want to find out more email [email protected]