Migrating to an in-house live streaming system offers a much higher quality stream, and can even support multiple cameras, graphics, and more. However, this comes with the responsibility of managing and maintaining the system, which requires a higher level of technical expertise.

For video, PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras are a popular choice among our customers. These cameras allow for remote control of the camera’s movements, making them ideal for situations where you need to capture multiple angles or follow the action without physically moving the camera. However, it's important to note that not all cameras are suitable for live streaming—specifically, security cameras should be avoided. They may lack the necessary video quality and control options required for professional live streaming.

Most of our customers use an audio board to connect their live stream, which works well for capturing direct audio sources like microphones. However, a common issue is the lack of room audio, which can make the stream sound sterile and uninviting. To counter this, consider integrating additional microphones specifically designed to capture ambient sound in the room. This will provide a more immersive experience for your viewers.

The encoder is crucial for compressing and transmitting your audio and video feed to the streaming platform. We work with almost every type of encoder, allowing flexibility in your setup. However, we only provide detailed documentation and support for OBS (Open Broadcaster Software). OBS is a widely used, open-source and free encoder that offers extensive features for managing and customizing your live stream. While other encoders may be compatible, OBS is our recommended choice as that is the only encoder our support team has been trained on.

To create a functional live streaming setup, you'll need to properly connect all of your equipment. Start by linking your PTZ cameras and audio sources to the encoder, ensuring that each connection is secure and configured correctly. Use the appropriate cables (e.g., HDMI, SDI, XLR) to connect the devices. Once connected, configure the encoder's settings to match your streaming platform's requirements. Ensure your network connection is stable and fast enough to handle the stream. If you're using multiple cameras, consider setting up a video switcher to easily switch between different camera angles during the live stream.

Recording your live streams isn't just valuable—it's essential. The main purpose of recording is to have a backup in case the network or stream fails during the live event. This recording can serve as a failsafe, allowing you to upload or rebroadcast the event later if something goes wrong with the live stream. Ensure your recording setup is reliable and capable of handling the same resolution and bitrate as your live stream to maintain quality. Having a backup recording solution is strongly recommended to protect against technical failures.

By moving to an in-house system, it's important to understand this will severely limit MemoryShare's ability to assist you during a crisis. There are many areas where things can go wrong, such as a camera not turning on, a cable coming loose, or software misconfigurations. While we provide guidance and documentation, the responsibility for troubleshooting and maintenance falls on you. MemoryShare cannot be held responsible for issues related to your in-house setup. It's crucial to have a plan in place for technical support and to regularly test and maintain your equipment to minimize the risk of problems during live events.
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We recommend working with a trusted A/V specialist when setting up your in-house live streaming system. To ensure maximum compatibility with your current setup, please send them the following tech specs:

View Tech Specs

MemoryShare offers a complimentary 45-minute call with one of our Live Stream Engineers to answer any questions you may have about transitioning to an in-house system. If you need further assistance, additional calls can be purchased for $150 each. Click the link below to schedule your complimentary call:

Schedule a Call with a Live Stream Engineer