At CinemaViva, we frequently encounter clients with complex live streaming needs.
Recently, a high-profile client needed to stream a multi-camera setup back to a studio in New York. To meet this requirement, we developed the ultimate web presenter rolling rig, designed to provide portability, reliability, and flexibility for live streaming in any location.
In this post, I’ll guide you through the components, assembly process, and key considerations when building a portable web presenter rig.
The Concept: A Portable Live Streaming Rig
The core requirement for this project was to stream with three cameras via SRT (Secure Reliable Transport) to a remote studio. This necessitated a robust yet portable setup capable of handling multiple video inputs and ensuring reliable power management.
To meet these needs, we decided on the following components:
•Blackmagic Web Presenters: To handle the video encoding and streaming.
•Blackmagic Design Teranex Mini Rack Shelf: For organizing the web presenters.
•CyberPower Battery Backup and Surge Protector: To ensure reliable power in any environment.
•SKB Rolling Case: For portability and easy transport to any location.
•Linksys LGS124P 24 Port Gigabit Unmanaged Network PoE Switch: For network connectivity and power management.
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Key Components and Assembly
1. The Web Presenters and Blackmagic Design Teranex Mini Rack Shelf
We started with the Blackmagic Web Presenters, which were mounted on the Blackmagic Design Teranex Mini Rack Shelf. This shelf allows us to secure all three web presenters in a compact and organized manner. The shelf was then placed in an SKB 4U rack case, which would hold all the equipment securely and make transportation easy.
2. Power Management: CyberPower Surge Protector
A critical part of any live streaming setup is ensuring uninterrupted power. We used the CyberPower surge protector and battery backup, which can handle four inputs on battery power and an additional two with surge protection only. This means even in environments with unreliable power, the rig can keep running during brief outages or fluctuations.
3. Network Connectivity: Linksys LGS124P PoE Switch
For managing the network connections, we integrated the Linksys LGS124P 24 Port Gigabit Unmanaged Network PoE Switch. This switch offers 12 Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+) ports, allowing us to power devices like IP cameras and other PoE-compatible equipment directly through the network. With 24 ports available, the switch provides ample connectivity for multi-camera setups, making it a highly versatile component for any live streaming rig. The Linksys switch also ensures fast and reliable gigabit connections, critical for maintaining the high bandwidth necessary for live streaming.
4. Cables and Connectivity
Proper cable management is essential for ensuring a smooth workflow during setup and operation. We used various lengths of ethernet cables for network connectivity and electrical cables for power distribution. The only component we were waiting on at this stage was the Linksys LGS124P network switch to handle the ethernet connections from all three web presenters and other devices.
Putting It All Together
Once the components were ready, we began the process of installing the equipment in the SKB rolling case:
•Step 1: Rack Mounting
We mounted the CyberPower surge protector at the top of the case to ensure easy access to power controls and cable connections. Below that, we installed the web presenters on the Blackmagic Teranex Mini Rack Shelf, leaving enough space to access the cables and connectors.
•Step 2: Adding the Linksys PoE Switch
Once the Linksys LGS124P PoE switch arrived, we mounted it underneath the web presenters. This allowed us to connect all the devices seamlessly, with room to spare for quick access and maintenance.
•Step 3: Testing and Configuration
After assembling the rig, it was time to test the setup. We connected the web presenters and checked the power management system. We ensured that everything was working as expected by conducting test streams and verifying the network connections.
Challenges and Solutions
As with any project, there were a few challenges we encountered:
•Power Over Ethernet (POE)
We attempted to power the cameras using POE from the Linksys switch, but this was unsuccessful because the switch provided up to 30 watts, while the cameras required 36 watts. After some research, we discovered that the cameras would need a dedicated Blackmagic Studio converter for reliable POE.
•Cable Quality
Not all ethernet cables are created equal. During our tests, we noticed that some cables were causing slow connection speeds. After troubleshooting, we identified the problematic cables and replaced them with higher-quality options.
Final Thoughts
This portable web presenter rig is an ideal solution for live streaming professionals who need mobility without sacrificing quality or reliability. With a few key components, including the Linksys LGS124P PoE switch, you can create a highly functional, multi-camera streaming setup that can be deployed in any location.
For us at CinemaViva, this rig has already proven its worth. We have an upcoming gig, and we’re confident that this setup will allow us to deliver a flawless live streaming experience for our client.
Components Used:
•Blackmagic Web Presenters
•Blackmagic Design Teranex Mini Rack Shelf
•CyberPower Surge Protector with Battery Backup
•SKB 4U Rolling Rack Case
•Linksys LGS124P 24 Port Gigabit Unmanaged Network PoE Switch
•Ethernet Cables, Power Cables, and Electrical Components
Stay tuned for more insights and behind-the-scenes looks at our video production processes. If you have any questions about this setup or are looking for professional live streaming solutions, feel free to contact us at CinemaViva.