NewTek TriCaster 300 - Manual (Page 221)

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15.3.1 BROWSER BASED
The basic Browser Based connection option can arguably be thought of as the lowest common
denominator, and also the least demanding approach in terms of learning curve for you, the
operator. The only local setting required beyond the initial Connection Type selection is the URL
of the Home field (see Section 15.2) for the streaming site you intend to use.
Many of the organizations providing streaming services offer free accounts with limited
capabilities and options, often ad-sponsored. These arrangements can be just what you need to
get started experimenting with live streaming, or may even satisfy all of your needs in this
regard. Generally, the companies involved also offer paid-for accounts as upgrades. The
benefits may include such things as removing the ads, more streaming options (such as higher
bitrate and resolutions or multi-bitrate streaming), two-way live chat, and so-on.
Note: The steps involved in creating an account with a streaming service provider and configuring
the stream vary widely, and unfortunately cannot really be dealt with in depth here. Generally,
though, they are pretty simple, and the provider offers step by step information and support
through the site. And, of course, NewTek’s own TriCaster™ forum membership can generally be
relied upon for helpful hands-on experience and advice.
Once configured on the remote site, you can audition your streaming broadcast using the Test
button provided in the Configure Stream Connection panel. After leaving this panel, the Stream
button underneath the Program Out monitor on the Live Desktop toggles streaming on an off. (If
you start streaming with the Test button, then close the Configure Stream Connection panel,
streaming continues.) If you do not wish to archive your test stream, disable the Archive File
switch beforehand – but remember to re-nable it later if desired.
Hint: Some services may show you what they are receiving from TriCaster™ when you press Test
or Stream, but do not actually broadcast that stream until you indicate that you are ready to go
‘on air’, using controls on the website.
For Browser Based streaming, the encoding of your program into a stream for transmission to
the service provider (and ultimately beyond to your Internet audience) is performed by an applet
running on the website. As mentioned before, however, while simple, this arrangement often
doesn’t give you as much control or as many options as you might eventually want. The other
Connection Type options are more hands-on in this respect, but require you to manually select
related settings, as discussed for each type next.