Manually set up encoders for live streaming in Microsoft Stream (Classic)
If you have a specific encoder you want to use, you need to add it. Once the encoder is set up, it is ready for you to begin live streaming with ease.
Microsoft Stream (Classic) accepts live feeds from a variety of different encoders that output RTMP or RTMPS. Each encoder is different, so make sure to follow the guidelines for your specific encoder configurations when sending to Stream. Check out the list of tested encoders with easy setup to get started.
To learn how to set up a Live event in Microsoft Stream, read about creating live events. If you are already using an encoder that has been tested with Microsoft Stream, read about configuring encoders for live streaming.
Set up an encoder manually
After you save or schedule your Live event (read Creating live events for details), you can see the list of pre-selected encoders in the Select encoder dropdown list on the Encoder setup tab. The ingest URLs are also generated at this time. Select Configure manually to set up an encoder not in the list of pre-selected encoders.
Terms to know
| TERM | DEFINITION |
|---|---|
| Bitrate | The rate at which data is processed or transferred at a single fixed rate. It is usually measured in seconds, ranging from bps for smaller values to kbps and mbps. |
| Codec | XXXX |
| Encoding | XXXXX |
| Ingest | Ingest means to obtain and import data for immediate use or storage. |
| Keyframe/GOP | XXXXXXXXX |
| kbps | xxxxxx |
| mbps | xxxxxx |
| Pixel Aspect Ratio (PAR) | XXXXXXXXX |
| RTMP and RTMPS | XXXXXXXXXXX |
| Sample rate | XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX |
| Strict Constant Bitrate (CBR) | XXX |
| Transcoding | XXXXX |
Set up an encoder
Select Start setup to create an ingest channel for live streaming. Wait for the setup to complete. You will see a Ready to connect message on the screen.
Copy and paste the following settings into the encoder of your choice:
a. Server ingest URL: In your encoder, this may be called URL or Address.
b. Redundant server ingest URL: If supported by your encoder, use this URL to double push to improve durability and resiliency. Since this is outputting a redundant stream from your encoder, it will require double bandwidth. So, make sure that you have the required bandwidth capacity to support this. This is listed under the Advanced section.
Note
The primary and the secondary feeds must be sending data at the exact same time. That is, for every piece of data sent through a server, its timestamp needs to be the same for both the primary and secondary feeds.
c. Select Secure Connection (SSL) to switch between RTMP or RTMPS protocols for the ingest URLs. To use RTMPS, your encoder must support RTMPS.
Microsoft Stream (Classic) does not require a stream key or name, so you can fill this in with any non-empty value such as, MicrosoftStream. Depending on the encoder, this may be entered on a separate field or appended to the end of the ingest URL e.g. /MicrosoftStream.
Make sure your encoder is set up with the correct settings, based on the recommended encoder settings below.
Set up your encoder with the desired audio and video sources.
Start streaming from your encoder to the Microsoft Stream (Classic) ingest endpoints.
Go back to Microsoft Stream. After you are able to see the preview from the encoder, select Start event to go live so your audience can see the Live event.
Recommended encoder settings
Ingest protocols
Single bitrate RTMPS or RTMP
Video format
- Codec: H.264
- Profile: High (Level 4.0)
- Bitrate: Up to 5 Mbps (5000 Kbps)
- Strict Constant Bitrate (CBR)
- Keyframe/GOP: 2 seconds
- There must be an IDR frame at the beginning of each GOP
- Frame Rate: 29.97 or 30fps
- Resolution: 1280 x 720 (720P)
- Interlace Mode: Progressive
- Pixel Aspect Ratio (PAR): Square
Audio format
- Codec: AAC (LC)
- Bitrate: 192 Kbps
- Sample Rate: 48 kHz or 44.1 kHz (recommend 48 kHz)
Playback requirements
Both an audio and video stream must be present in order to playback content in Microsoft Stream.
Configuration tips
Whenever possible, use a hardwired internet connection.
When determining bandwidth requirements is to double the streaming bitrates. While this is not a mandatory requirement, it will help mitigate the impact of network congestion.
When using software-based encoders, close any unnecessary programs.
Don't change your encoder configuration after it has started pushing. It has negative effects on the event and can cause the event to be unstable. If you want to do this before the event has started, you must disconnect using the producer controls in Microsoft Stream (Classic) and start setup again.
If the encoder is disconnected during the live event, reconnect it keeping the same timestamps of continuing process. Any discontinuity may cause audio or video issues on certain browsers and devices.
Give yourself ample time to setup your event. For high scale events, it's recommended to start the setup an hour before your event.