As we can see, many broadcast and television fields still use traditional cameras instead of network cameras. Thus, there is no way to assign an IP address on the network directly. The video output by traditional cameras is not useful in streaming media. That’s because it generates massive data, which is not suitable for transmission on the network.

So, a video encoder is required to compress and reduce the video output of these cameras. In short, a video encoder makes the video output suitable for network transmission. At the same time, it can also set an IP address and have a stream function.

However, selecting an encoder can be challenging at times. It is normal to make your decision based on its features and applications. So, make sure you pay close attention to the following parameters when choosing a network encoder.

1. Get the Encoder With SDI / HDMI Input

SDI/HDMI are both HD interfaces, and they are also a serial digital interface for video transmission. They are based on the SMPTE serial link standards.

SDI/HDMI interface uses the original video data for transmission without compression. As a result, it ensures that the image quality is not lossy and genuinely present the video content. Moreover, it can realize real-time transmission of video signals without causing the delay.

2. Expand 4G Network Functions; WiFi Is the Essential Requirement

WiFi and 4G networks are required for video encoder functions. Because in many cases, if there is no WIFI network, you can use the 4G service, and its network speed can reach ten to dozens of times of the 3G network speed. It is best to choose the built-in dual-frequency (2.4G /5.8G) WiFi module, 4G LTE module, or support USB extended 4G-LTE Dongle so that it can realize various forms of wireless network transmission.

3. It Must Support H.265 Encoding Function Technology

At present, most broadcast platforms use H.264 coding technology. Well, H.265 high-efficiency video coding is a video compression standard. It is a new video coding developed after 264. H.265 (HEVC) technology. Besides, it is useful not only to improve the video quality but also to achieve H.264 / MPEG-4 AVC.

It doubles the compression rate (reducing the bit rate to 50% under the same picture quality.) Besides, it can support 4K resolution and even ultra HD television, and the highest resolution can reach 8192 × 4320 (8 K resolution). Therefore, H.265 technology is essential to improve the relationship between code stream, encoding quality, delay, and algorithm complexity to achieve optimal settings.

4. It Should Support Multi-Protocol Functions (RTMP/RTSP/SRT)

At present, the streaming video encoder output must support the RTMP/RTSP protocol. Well, RTMP is the standard protocol. Nowadays, PCs are mainly Windows. Windows browsers support flash, and flash supports RTMP protocol. Therefore, all encoders support RTMP output. Compared with the delay of the HTTP protocol stream (generally above 10 seconds), RTMP is low latency.

Now, let’s focus on the SRT protocol. SRT is a standard open-source low-latency video transmission protocol. Using reliable SRT transmission technology can successfully achieve safe and steady HD video transmission and distribution between multiple places in the ordinary Internet environment. Moreover, SRT supports AES encryption to ensure end-to-end video transmission security.

In terms of reliability, SRT guarantees the stability of transmission through a forward correction technology (FEC). Likewise, in terms of low latency, SRT solves the problem of high transmission delay of the UDT protocol. That’s because SRT is built on the UDT protocol.

The UDT protocol is based on the UDP network communication protocol. SRT solves the complex transmission timing problem and can support the real-time transmission of high-throughput files and ultra-clear videos. Thus, many radio and television broadcast industries are willing to choose to support the SRT protocol encoder. Of course, the RTMP protocol is enough for civilian use, so that the cost will be lower.

Over to You!

If you search for a video encoder for live broadcasting, you will come across dozens of different models. Even so, it is necessary to pick the one that can meet your needs. Make sure you consider the above four points when choosing a video encoder. In other words, these points will determine the quality of a video encoder.