Wondering if you can live stream with an IP camera on Dacast? The short answer is yes.
At Dacast, we have a number of broadcasters who use this IP camera streaming instead of choosing to stream live via a USB or standard webcam. However, please note that streaming with an IP camera does require a certain type of encoder. If you are looking to stream live from a software encoder, we recommend the Wirecast encoding software as it supports IP cameras.
We suggest using the Wirecast free trial with the Dacast service. That way, you can test out whether or not this software/streaming platform combination will meet your needs before you commit to live streaming in this fashion.
One other option we can recommend is OBS Studio, which is a free software encoder. Based on feedback and reviews seen online, streaming from this encoder using an IP camera is also very much possible. If you care to check this encoder, you can do so at OBS Broadcaster Software.
What is an Encoder?
Encoding is a process used to convert the RAW video files captured by a camera into digital files suitable for live streaming over the internet. OBS Studio and Wirecast are examples of software encoders that are used for live streaming. This means that the encoder feeds digital video files to the streaming platform in real-time.
Required Encoder Settings
The following live encoder settings are required for live streaming with Dacast, regardless of your selected resolution and bitrate:
VIDEO CODEC | H.264 (x264 may work) |
FRAME RATE | 25 or 30 |
KEYFRAME INTERVAL | 2 secs (or 2x frame rate) |
SCANNING | Progressive |
ENCODING BITRATE | Constant (CBR) |
AUDIO CODEC | AAC |
AUDIO BITRATE | 128 kbps |
AUDIO CHANNELS | 2 (Stereo) |
AUDIO SAMPLE RATE | 48 kHz (48,000 Hz) |
Any questions or need help/access to this feature? Please contact us. Not yet a Dacast user, and interested in trying Dacast risk-free for 14 days? Sign up today to get started.
Additional Resources
- How to Set Up a Live Stream on Your Website
- How to Improve Live Streaming Quality
- Live Streaming Equipment: What You Need to Stream
- Encoder Setup Guide: A Walkthrough
- Live Encoder Configuration: Our Required Settings