Technical Considerations when Going Live

Internet Bandwidth

A wireless internet connection may be sufficient for streaming in many cases but a hard-wired ethernet connection to your computer will be the most robust if available. The maximum quality you can stream reliably will be limited to no more than about 75% of your internet connection upload speed. To determine the upload speed of your connection simply Google search “internet speed test” and they will give you a link that quickly determines your connection speed.

The data transmission rate of most video conferencing and webinar focused platforms like Zoom are surprisingly low: 2.6Mbps/1.8Mbps (up/down). Bear in mind that most Zoom users are limited to 720p HD video.

The data required for live-streaming focused platforms like YouTube can be substantially higher. Maximum streaming resolution varies by platform. YouTube allows live streaming up to 4kp60. Recommended video bitrates for streaming are listed below.

  • 4k/2160p @60fps: 20-51 Mbps
  • 4k/2160p @30fps: 13-34 Mbps
  • 1440p 60 fps: 9-18 Mbps
  • 1440p 30 fps: 6-13 Mbps
  • 1080p 60fps: 4.5-9 Mbps
  • 1080p 30fps: 3-6 Mbps
  • 720p 60fps: 2.25-6 Mbps
  • 720p 30fps: 1.5-4 Mbps

Signal Distribution (locally)

If you are displaying only to a local audience (in the same room), signal distribution to displays will be your focus. HDMI cables can be used to carry a signal up to 50ft, SDI cables up to 300ft. There are a variety of signal converters and distribution splitters available to broadcast one signal to multiple monitors or projectors. 

Questions? Contact us!