Buying
What does a channel need to stream live?
An encoder (OBS, vMix, Wirecast or a hardware unit) fed from the switcher output, an internet connection with a stable upload of about 1.5 times the bitrate you send, and a streaming server. The player, the app and simulcast come next.
How much does a video streaming server cost?
With INOVANEX, from US$ 18.48 a month (US$ 0.62 a day) for 250 concurrent viewers at 720p, in US dollars with no VAT added and unlimited transfer. The comparison puts other providers on the same basis.
Per viewer, per GB or per hour: which is cheaper?
It depends on your audience and hours on air. For a channel on air around the clock, a fixed price by concurrent viewers with unlimited transfer is usually the most predictable. The calculator gives you all three units.
What happens if my audience outgrows the plan?
Viewers above the limit can't connect. When it starts happening, move up a plan before the next big event; at INOVANEX the change is immediate.
Technical
RTMP or SRT?
RTMP from a studio with a good connection; SRT for outside broadcasts, 4G or long links, because it recovers lost packets. A good provider accepts both.
Which resolution and bitrate?
720p at 2 to 2.5 Mbps for studio shows and news; 1080p at 3.5 to 4.5 Mbps for sports and outside broadcasts. The guide has the full table.
Which encoder settings?
H.264 video, AAC audio, constant bitrate, a keyframe every 2 seconds and the frame rate of your source (30 or 60, or 25/50 in PAL countries). Your provider should give you a sheet with its recommended settings.
Why is my stream behind live?
That is latency: 10 to 30 seconds on classic HLS, a few seconds with low-latency setups. It is normal; ask for low latency only if you run betting, auctions or live interaction.
What do viewers see if my encoder drops?
It depends on the provider: a black screen, an error, or an automatic slate. Ask before signing. INOVANEX includes the slate on every plan, and video AutoDJ can air recorded programs.
Channel and audience
Can I run a 24/7 channel without being live all the time?
Yes, with video AutoDJ: a library of recorded programs that airs on schedule and whenever there is no live signal.
Can viewers rewind or watch what already aired?
With DVR, yes. At INOVANEX retention goes from 24 hours to 30 days, and the recordings also serve for clips and rebroadcasts.
Can I stream on my website and on YouTube at the same time?
Yes, with simulcast from the server: your signal goes to your player and to YouTube, Facebook or Twitch at once, without extra upload from the studio.
Apps and support
Do I need my own app?
If you want viewers on the phone and the TV set without depending on platforms, yes. The channel app page explains what it needs and what it costs.
What support should I expect?
Support that answers while you are on air, which for a channel means always: published hours, an emergency channel and response times in writing.
Does switching providers mean going to black?
No, if you keep both services active for a few days and update player, apps and simulcast before cancelling the old one. The step by step is in this guide.