Video Capture, Encoding...

 

 

Camera(s)

 

At your church, you'll need one or more cameras and a computer connected to the internet.  For most churches, having cameras that operate well in low lighting are very important for a high quality video signal.  If you elect to have more than one camera to film your service, you'll need to switch between camera feeds during the service.  With the Microsoft Expressions encoder, a software video switch is provided.  For other endcoders (and multiple cameras), you may want to consider a video switch.  Focus Enhancements (focusinfo.com) offers reliable high performance video switches.

 

Computer

 

On the computer where you'll capture the video signal and transmit it to the StreamingChurch.tv streaming server, you'll need an adequate computer and video card. Recently purchased mid-range or above personal computers should be adequate to transmit your video signal.  The Osprey video card is a popular video card for streaming video.

 

Encoding Software (free)

 

If you elect to stream using the Windows format, you'll need either the Windows Media Encoder (download here for free), or the Windows professional Expression Encoder.  If you elect to stream your service using the Flash format, you'll need to the Flash Media Encoder (download here for free).

 

Internet Connection

 

You should have a DSL or faster internet connection at your church to transmit the video signal to the StreamingChurch.tv Live streaming server.  You can test your connection speed here.  You should have at least 500 Kbps upload speed or greater.