A complete guide for beginner streamers. Setting up the interactive television service "stream-TV" Equipment for streaming games
"Stream-TV" - service interactive television based on ADSL technology, provided by Comstar-Direct CJSC to private individuals - subscribers of MGTS OJSC. It does not require the installation of any antennas; broadcast of television programs is provided with the highest image quality, regardless of the level of the radio signal and radio interference at the subscriber’s location. The signal is transmitted via the MGTS subscriber telephone line, while the telephone remains idle.
Necessary equipment
- Decoder and smart card
- Ethernet cable. Please note that such a cable is not included in the delivery package of the Stream-TV decoder. The cable that is included with the modem is short in length and will be used to connect the modem and the Stream-TV decoder.
- TV equipped with an RCA input (composite input). This input is available on any modern TV. You can connect the TV and decoder using the A/V Amino cable included with the decoder. If your TV also has SCART and S-video connectors and you want to use these connectors, you can additionally purchase a special cable to connect the decoder to the TV.
If the computer and TV are located in different rooms, you need to place the decoder and modem next to the TV, and run the Ethernet cable to the computer in another room. It is not advisable to connect a modem located in one room to a decoder located in another room, since the result on the TV screen may be an image that crumbles into squares when changing frames, and the sound disappears. This is due to the attenuation of the video and audio signal in a long Ethernet cable. Therefore, you should connect the modem and decoder with a short Ethernet cable included in the delivery kit of the modem, and the modem and computer with a long one, the speed of Internet access from the computer will remain high. If you still need to place the modem and decoder in different rooms, we recommend using Powerline adapters (for example, Zyxel PLA 400 EE), which transmit the signal through the building's electrical wiring at high speed.
Step 1. Connecting the equipment
Connect the TV and decoder using the supplied Amino A/V cable (or an S-video, SCART cable you purchased). Then connect the modem and decoder using the Ethernet cable included with the modem. Connect the decoder and the power supply without connecting it to the mains.
Step 2. Turn on the equipment
Turn on the TV, activate the video signal reception mode via the RCA connector (or SCART, S-video, if you want to use these connectors). How to do this is indicated in the TV user manual. For some TV models, it is enough to turn on the AV mode; other models may require more detailed settings. Turn on the modem and wait until it establishes a connection to the Internet.
Step 3. Install the smart card
Insert the smart card into the decoder as follows: position the decoder horizontally, push the smart card with a little force with the gold-plated contact pad facing up, the contact pad should be at the front of the smart card. As a result, the smart card should “peek out” from the decoder by about one and a half centimeters. After this, if you wish, you can position the decoder vertically.
Step 4. Activate the TV package
Turn on the decoder by plugging the power supply into an electrical outlet. If everything is configured correctly, a red light will light up on the front panel of the decoder, and after a while you will see a request to enter your account number and authorization code on the TV screen. Enter them using the number keys on the decoder remote control. If numbers will not be entered, press the STB key on the remote control and try entering the numbers again. After successfully entering the account number and authorization code, after a while you will see an image of the Stream TV main menu page.
Main menu "Stream TV"
Navigation through the menu is carried out using the "Up", "Down", "Right", "Left" keys on the decoder remote control. Confirm your selection by pressing the "OK" key. Useful information can be obtained by opening the "Information" section.
Useful information for Stream-TV subscribers
To watch television channels, you need to subscribe to one of the TV packages that will complement your Internet access plan. This must be done through Personal Area"Stream" subscriber. However, the changed tariff will take effect only on the next day (for unlimited tariffs) or from the 1st day of the next month (for limited tariff plans). I would like to start using Stream TV right now. Therefore, we subscribe directly from the TV screen. It should be noted that in this case, until the TV package that you have subscribed to in addition to your Internet tariff plan comes into effect, you will be charged for watching television at higher rates and on a daily basis. It is in your best interest to activate the TV package for your Internet access plan as soon as possible. After activating such a package, the subscription that you carried out from the TV screen, that is, the more expensive one, automatically ceases to be valid, the fee for using the Stream TV service will be debited from your personal account once a month, as well as for using Internet access. So, in order to start using the Stream TV service right now, you need to open the “Tariffs” section. You will be asked to enter a PIN code. Enter 1111, this code was in effect at the time of writing these instructions. If this code turns out to be invalid, call the service technical support"Stream TV" to find out valid code. By entering the correct code, you will be taken to the subscription page. Choose the package you are interested in and subscribe.
When entering the "Tariff" section, you must enter PIN code 1111
Select the "TV Channels" section and subscribe to the package of TV channels you are interested in
Step 5. Let's look
Return to the main menu by pressing the Menu key on the remote control and selecting "Home". You can go to the main menu page both when working in the menu and while watching TV programs. Just press the Menu button on the remote control of the Stream-TV decoder. In the main menu, in the "Services" section, select "TV Channels". The menu for this section will open. Channels available for viewing in the package you have chosen are marked with a “+” sign, and unavailable channels with a “–” sign. Select the channel you need. To view it in full screen Press "OK" on the decoder remote control.
At the beginning of the show, for the first few seconds, information about the channel number, its name, the name and start time of the program currently broadcast, and the same information about the next program, the current date and time are displayed at the bottom of the screen. If desired, this information can be called up at any time by pressing the "Down" key on the decoder remote control. The program guide can be viewed directly on the TV screen.
Some programs have annotations. It can be viewed while in the menu.
Possible problems and ways to solve them
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Decoder does not turn on | Check for voltage at the electrical outlet to which the decoder is connected. If there is voltage in it, press the STB key and the power on/off key on the decoder remote control. |
| The decoder turns on but does not respond to commands from the remote control | Check the condition of the batteries in the remote control and whether they are installed correctly. If the batteries are OK, press the STB key on the remote control. |
| The decoder and TV are turned on, but there is no image on the TV screen | Check that the decoder and TV are connected correctly. Using the TV menu, check whether the mode for receiving audio and video signals is activated through the TV connector to which the cable coming from the decoder is connected. |
| No broadcast | If it is impossible to watch television programs on a certain television channel for reasons beyond the control of Comstar-Direct CJSC, you will see a message on the TV screen. |
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Hi all!
I decided to post quite complete guide for those who are interested in streaming and don't know how to get started.
It will cover a wide variety of topics, with big amount suggestions based on my personal observations and advice from experienced streamers.
This guide is made for those who plan to use OBS, Xsplit or other programs, but are not familiar with them.
Therefore, before we begin, we advise you to buckle up, put on your helmet, get a cup of tea and understand the reason for traveling in this article.
Creating your channel
When coming up with a channel name, as with any product, you want something catchy and easy to remember. Also, for those who want to play with it, you must have a theme.
Your name is just as important because it differentiates you from others, it's like a brand for your channel.
Some people, when creating a channel, use unattractive and original titles, for example 'ZZfukkyStReAM', although you can come up with a more memorable one like 'Fuk.ky' or something like that.
You'll likely be trying to rank somewhere in this highly competitive market, so think carefully about your channel name as it will guide many future decisions.
Catchphrases
It may seem silly at first, but catchphrases can do a lot in this industry. They create branding, a sense of familiarity for fans/viewers, allowing your channel to be found among others. CohhCarnage, for example, has its own - “Good Show!!” when leveled up for Ezekien_III, he also has a unique punch performed when leveling up.
Coming from your own catchphrase, it can make people excited on your channel, they will look forward to your catchphrase, and what they will say is see for yourself when talking to viewers.
Schedule
Before you go live, plan your schedule.
This is very important in order to indicate a specific stream time for viewers, preparation for achieving your goal and inform the time of your stay on the Internet. This is important for viewer retention.
Stable broadcasts are needed to attract regular viewers, since they can come and there is nothing to watch! On the other hand, you don't want to stream too often because you'll get exhausted too quickly and the streams won't have any new content.
Make the right schedule so that it stabilizes your channel’s views, attracts new viewers and subsequently increases your popularity.
Hardware
This is the most talked about part of streaming, each build is unique and it is difficult to say if there is a perfect setup. What I'm going to do is explain the purpose of each component and how important they are to your broadcast and your viewers.
CPU
The CPU (processor) is usually the most important aspect regarding technical side streaming video.
If you use 1 PC, it not only runs the game, but also encodes the video and broadcasts it to the channel.
What is coding? Encoding is the process of converting the media content you record and converting it into a standard that twitch will receive.
Encoding is a resource-intensive process, which means you need a fairly powerful processor.
I recommend processors with resources larger than those you will use to ensure sufficient processing power as well as longevity.
When buying a processor, you need to determine the time frame within which it can be used, regardless of system requirements games.
AMD/Intel processors will allow you to get the most for your money, even if you spend $100, the processor will be considered powerful for another 2 years before you need to upgrade.
GPU
The GPU (video card) is essential in the gaming experience.
The two main competitors are AMD and nVidia.
The better your video card, the better the game will look and you will get a higher quality stream.
If you use the nvenc encoder from nVidia, the GPU will not be so critically loaded by the broadcast, mainly just the game.
RAM
RAM (random access memory) is short-term memory. I would recommend 8GB, but I highly recommend 16GB or more since games with open world and survival games use a lot of data storage from servers.
RAM greatly improves multitasking when you're running multiple apps while streaming a game.
HDD/SSD
You most likely use HDD (Hard Drive Disk) or SSD (Solid State Drive).
SSD drives are ideal for storing all your essential programs and operating system, which works and runs from it.
HDD uses mechanical components to run, allowing you to store your data on it.
SSDs use flash memory (just like flash drives, and this allows them to be faster and more reliable, since the likelihood of mechanical failure is zero).
If you want to save broadcast content on your computer, make sure you have enough memory on your HDD.
So you can record your broadcast!
Monitor
The monitor will be yours best friend when your broadcast becomes more popular.
I'm currently using 3 monitors
"Why so many?" - you ask.
The central monitor is the main one - I play games on it.
The left monitor is for OBS, for displaying notifications and so on.
Finally we reached the right monitor. I use it for a chatbot (I use Ankhbot, but more on that later).
Webcam
If you decide to use a webcam, then you should take a decent, high-quality Logitech one that costs about $100, which will last you for several years of use (in technical terms, of course).
Microphone
Choosing a microphone is a more complex decision.
Each person has his own, proven way of broadcasting audio to his viewers.
Many people use a simple headset and end up moving on to something else once they gain a foothold in the streaming rankings.
Others immediately use quality microphones like the Razer Seiren or Yeti Mic.
And another important aspect - whether you use a regular audio input, or buy a digital one, perhaps you will use a studio microphone to broadcast professional-quality sound with a large number of options and effects, for which you will need a scissors-shaped stand.
Net
It is important that you have more than 5 Mbit download speed. This will allow your encoder to load at ~2000 Kbps.
Video Capture
For those who want to broadcast console games may be required external card video capture.
There are plenty of capture cards available for older connections and HDMI.
You have the option to use internal capture devices, but external ones will reduce the load on your computer since the processor will only be used for gaming, like on consoles.
Finding a capture card is also quite a costly task in terms of time and money.
Periphery
Peripherals. This is a mouse, keyboard, various gamepads.
This doesn't put a strain on the stream, you just get what you like - you do game process more convenient for yourself.
Setting up OBS
1.You need to download OBS. This application is open source. It is absolutely free, which does not limit the user in broadcasting.
2.Download the CLR Browser, which will be needed to provide the channel with warnings and other notifications.
3.Follow the instructions to install the downloaded OBS and CLR browser plugin.
4. Register an account on twitch.tv. Go to the channel and in the right shrinking pane in the information panel, find Stream Key and click “Show Key”. This is important for OBS as it uses it to broadcast to your channel. The Stream Key will need to be inserted into the field called Stream Key Play Path, and when LIVE mode is turned on, the video will start broadcasting on your channel.
5.Set the encoding bitrate. The golden rule for a streamer is that the bitrate is about 2000 Kbps for your Internet. Make sure you use a CBR encoder, I personally use an X264 encoder.
6.Set video parameters. The golden rule is a resolution of 1280x720 (720p) and 30 fps (frames per second).
7.Set the sound parameters as you prefer. You can leave the microphone settings at their defaults. I personally use a stereo microphone with high quality sound, but set it to mono.
8.Create scenes and sources. Sources are combined into scenes. For example: you want to make an introductory video before the start of the broadcast or before the start of the game, or while loading the game/match. A webcam and text notifications are also added here.
9.Make a test run of broadcasting. This is important for assessing the original video stream that viewers will be able to see.
Branding
1.Logo. It must be something unique. When creating a logo, make sure that it catches your eye. The viewer should immediately understand that this logo represents your channel.
2. Overlays. Whether you buy them online or make them yourself, overlays should enhance your channel and increase its appeal. But don't get carried away, because you may not notice how the entire flow screen becomes clogged. You can provide information about yourself, donations, or new subscribers.
3. Information panels. There is an information panel at the bottom of your channel (immediately below the video). Use it at your own discretion. Here you can leave links to your pages from social networks, websites and simply write about yourself. When creating panels, take into account the theme of your channel, this is very important.
4.Social networks. Associate the name of your channel with your pages on social networks. This generates some kind of advertising and distribution on several platforms: Reddit, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and so on.
Stream! Good part!
These will be general tips, which will help you in the online streaming industry, which always has room for improvement. Even the best streamers and entertainers have room for improvement.
Don't be neutral about what's happening in the chat. Address the audience, talk to yourself, comment on your actions, the same music. This will not only make your video dialogue-rich, but will also attract new viewers, for whom, in fact, you are playing. In addition, you will train your vocal cords so that you can speak for a long time.
Minimizing flow shutdown time. Try to reduce the amount of time you are away to deal with personal problems. If you are young, then explain to your parents or other family members the essence of the broadcast and why you need it. Explain the time you plan to spend on the broadcast - I hope they understand you. Because let’s face it, there’s nothing worse than a mom talking about scattered underwear in the bathroom.
Don't play overcrowded games unless you are good player. Try to avoid what I call the “TOP 4”: League of Legends, Defense of the Ancients, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Hearthstone, if you don't know how to play them. These games are too competitive and you will look like a small gnat among the tournament streams or professional players. Try to start with games with 300-500 viewers, unless this is the only broadcast channel.
Don't shout at the Dudosers. “Dudosers” are those who will try to spam, advertise your channel, or simply insult you. Most viewers will simply leave your game. Better turn on some bot. Some people may want you to just sit back.
Don't ask for donations. This will make you seem too pathetic. Usually the funds are donated to the teams. Therefore, indicate what you are striving for.
Make sure the audience feels comfortable watching you.
Network.Network.Network. Don't clutter the network. Limit your broadcast resources. After all, some viewers do not have the same Internet as you.
Create competitions! It may be rare, but it can attract more viewers. This can make you a more promising member of the streaming community.
Bots
Now I'm going to list the three main bots.
1.AnkhBot. This is my favorite bot because it has quite flexible settings. It's completely free and all information and actions will be stored on Google Docs, which it can integrate with. It has requests for songs, prizes and so on. It also has the ability to block/delete links, block/delete languages (for example, you want viewers to communicate only in English language, then messages in other languages will simply be deleted).
2.NightBot. A free, web-based bot that provides features such as moderation, song requests, and custom commands.
3.MooBot. Similar to NightBot in that it is also cloud based. Includes song requests and more.
Safety
1. Create a separate email that does not contain your name, nickname or channel name. This will create a disconnect between you and your online persona.
2.When creating PayPal, go to the business accounts section, and make sure that all information is hidden by privacy settings. Your address will be shown when you buy things, but the information will be hidden when you are paid. I recommend using the name “Channel's Twitch Channel”.
3.Do not use Skype with viewers! If you trust 100% of random viewers, don't even use TeamSpeak. Discord is a new application that prevents a random viewer from obtaining your IP address.
4.Don't give too much detail about your location! I don’t recommend inviting family/acquaintances to streams, as they might let slip your name or location. Get PO Box to send things to viewers without worrying about anyone getting your personal details.
5. Make sure you change your steam profile email. If you sent someone a game, the recipient will see your email address. Change it.
Microphone, headphones, webcam. Maybe something else? Or will this be enough? How to choose and which models to choose?
To start streaming, one computer will not be enough. You will also need at least a good microphone and headphones. In this article we will tell you what requirements need to be put forward for additional equipment.
Streaming equipment
As we have already said, the minimum set of equipment is a microphone and headphones. You can also take a headset. It's convenient for anyone here.
Microphone for streaming
This is a microphone required element any stream. You can say must have. The viewer won't just watch you play to the music. No. He wants to listen to you. Your thoughts, jokes or tantrums. They want to hear how you get burned when your team is bottom, how you mock your opponent when you win in a trash game. This is exactly what people go to stream for. It's not so much watching as listening.
Therefore, you need to choose something of high quality. We're not saying that you need to take studio equipment, but the better the microphone, the better the stream.
Headphones for streaming
Headphones for streaming are also required if, of course, you also want to hear some sounds from the game and music. Speakers will not fit, otherwise the sound from them will be duplicated into the microphone and this will create a disgusting echo.
Choose headphones solely according to your preferences. For the viewer they have no meaning at all, so take what you like. Even Sinhizers for 150 thousand rubles, or cheap Panasonics from the transition for 50 rubles.
Webcam for streaming
A webcam is completely optional. Many even popular streamers stream without a webcam and that’s okay. In fact, you only need a camera if you plan to make some kind of performance from your stream, like Karina, for example. After each game, she does squats exactly as many times as she died in the game.
The camera is also needed to make eye contact with the audience. When you are having a conversation or answering questions, it is better to have a webcam - this will create a more friendly atmosphere.
You need to choose a camera with good quality Images. It is desirable that she could shoot at least 480p. It's also not bad when the camera has autofocus. Because if it’s not there, you’ll have to sit still. After all, if you suddenly move the chair a little back or forward, then instead of a clear, focused picture, viewers will see a blurry spot.
It is also better to pay attention to webcams with built-in backlight. This will greatly improve the quality of the picture. Otherwise, your face will be dull and dark.
Taking some cool expensive webcam makes no sense. At least at the beginning of his streaming career.
Additional equipment for game streaming
This thing is definitely not included in the starter set, but be sure to buy it for yourself in the future - it’s a cool thing. It's about about green background (chromakey). The thing is more for professional streams, but very cool. If you place it clearly behind you, then with proper settings on the user’s screen you will be visible as if against a transparent background. This looks especially cool when you don’t have a special place for a webcam in the screen frame
So as not to take up a lot of playing space the best option- transparent background.
Light. If you want to make a cool stream, you'll have to take care of cool lighting. To get a high-quality image you need at least 2 light spotlights. It is best to use professional light, which is what photographers use with a diffuser, so that there is no concentrated beam. Then the picture will be soft and pleasant.
Microphone stand and filter. When in certain moment You understand that your microphone creates unnecessary noise and in general it’s time to buy something better, you need to immediately buy a convenient stand with a filter. This is, firstly, convenient and aesthetically pleasing, and secondly, it really improves the sound quality.
It is better to place the microphone stand on the floor rather than on the table. On a desk, the microphone may vibrate due to active use of the keyboard and mouse, this will create additional interference.
That's basically all. Additionally, you can buy anything else, but that’s another conversation!
Make only high-quality streams. If you have any questions, ask in the comments!
