Setting Up HLS Streaming using Videon EdgeCaster Hardware Encoder with Dacast (Windows & Mac)

In the world of live streaming, having the right tools and configuration is key to delivering high-quality content to your audience. One such tool is Videon EdgeCaster Hardware Encoder which, when combined with Dacast, can help you achieve seamless HLS live streaming. In this blog, we will guide you through the process of setting up this hardware encoder with Dacast to ensure your live broadcasts go off without a hitch.

Step 1: Create a New Channel on Dacast

The first step in this setup process is to create a new channel on your Dacast account here. Be sure to select the HLS channel option.

Step 2: Connect the Hardware Encoder

Plug an Ethernet cord into the hardware encoder, and it’s crucial to ensure that the encoder is connected to the same network as your laptop or computer.

Step 3: Install Videon Discovery Application

On your laptop, download and install the Videon Discovery Application here. This software will play a vital role in configuring your hardware encoder. 

Step 4: Open Videon Discovery Application

Once the discovery software installation is complete, click ‘Open’ to launch the application. The Videon dashboard will appear on your screen. Make sure your audio and video inputs (HDMI/SDI) are properly connected to the encoder.

Step 5: Configure Video Profiles

• Encoding Mode: Choose ‘Constant Bitrate’
• Video Bitrate: Keep it below 4000 kbps, and adjust as needed based on your internet upload speed.
• Video Encoding: Select ‘H.264 (AVC)’
• H.264 Profile: Opt for ‘Main Profile’

Step 6: Set Up Audio Profile

Navigate to the ‘Audio Profile’ tab and configure it with the following settings:

• Audio Encoding: MPEG-4 AAC-LC (Default)
• Encoding Mode: Choose ‘Constant Bitrate’
• Audio Bitrate: Set it to 128 kbps

Step 7: Configure Outputs

• Select ‘HTTP push (Live Edge Streaming)’ as your output option.
• Turn ‘HTTP Push’ to ON at the top of the screen.
• Video Source: Pick your desired profile from the dropdown.
• Audio Source: Choose the desired profile from the dropdown.
• HTTP Streaming Provider: Set it to ‘Akamai’.
• Manifest Type: Choose ‘HLS’.
• Segment Window: Configure it to have 9 segments of 3 seconds each.
• Media Type: Set it to ‘TS’.

After filling in all these details, return to your Dacast account.

Step 8: Configure Dacast

• Go to the HLS channel you created earlier.
• Click on the ‘Encoder Setup’ button in the upper right corner of the screen.
• Copy the ‘Primary Publishing URL’.

Now, go back to the Videon Streaming Dashboard and paste the URL into the ‘Primary Publishing URL’ box. Be sure to remove the “/master” part of the link.

Click ‘Save’.

Step 9: Test Your Stream

In your Dacast account, go to your channel, grab the shared link, and test it out in your browser. Keep in mind that some hardware encoders may take a few minutes to start streaming, so don’t be alarmed if the signal initially shows as ‘Offline’, it may take up to three minutes.

Your HLS Videon EdgeCaster Hardware Encoder is now set up with Dacast for live streaming!

Advanced Setup

For those looking to enhance their live streaming experience for viewers, here’s an advanced setup:

Step 10: Configure MBR Group

In Videon’s streaming dashboard, under the MBR Group tab, add the following settings:

• Key Interval: 3 Seconds
• Click ‘Save’.

Step 11: Create Additional Video Profiles

Go to the ‘Video Profiles’ section and create new profiles as needed for bitrate purposes. It’s recommended to have at most three profiles, and you can adjust the video bitrate to match the resolution’s rate. Note: It is recommended to use a max resolution of 1080p60 in the MBR’s settings. This will avoid performance issues with a top-end of 4K.

Step 12: Enable MBR Group Member Option

After filling in the data for the profiles, make sure to toggle ‘ON’ the MBR Group Member option for each profile, and then save. All the profiles should have this option enabled.

Step 13: Configure Video Source

In the ‘Outputs’ section, click on the ‘HTTP Push’ tab. Under ‘Video Source,’ select ‘MBR Group,’ and then save. Double-check that the ‘video profiles’ have the checkmark enabled.

Now, you’re all set up for advanced streaming configurations with your HLS Videon EdgeCaster Hardware Encoder and Dacast. Happy streaming!

To learn more about Videon EdgeCaster, please visit: https://www.videonlabs.com/edgecaster 

If you have any questions about audio files, live streaming, VOD, or need help with this Dacast feature, feel free to contact us directly.

Not yet a Dacast user, and interested in trying Dacast risk-free for 14 days? Sign up today to get started.

get started for free