How Live Encoding works

The Bitmovin Live Encoder is an award winning multi-cloud SaaS distribution encoder, and simplifies live streaming by structuring the workflow around three key elements: input, encoding, and output. Each element has a specific purpose, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

Input: Setting the Blueprint

The workflow begins with the input, which defines how live video is brought into the encoder. Acting as a blueprint, the input specifies transport protocols such as RTMP, SRT, or Zixi, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of production setups. It supports a variety of resolutions, from SD (480i) to 4K (2160p), as well as portrait orientations for mobile streams. By accepting industry-standard audio video codecs such as H.264, HEVC, AAC and OPUS, the input stage provides a reliable and flexible foundation for encoding.

Encoding: The Core Process

At the heart of the workflow is encoding. This is where the Bitmovin Live Encoder processes the incoming video, audio and metadata, transforming it into high-quality adaptive streams suitable for delivery. Using adaptive bitrate (ABR) streaming, the encoder generates outputs in formats like HLS and DASH, ensuring smooth playback across devices and varying network conditions. Advanced features, such as video scaling, image overlay insertion, deinterlacing, loudness correction, subtitle conversion and DRM encryption offer users extensive customization options to meet specific technical and creative requirements.

Output: Delivering the Stream

The output defines where the encoded video is stored or forwarded after processing. The Bitmovin Live Encoder supports integration with a variety of storage solutions, including Akamai NetStorage, Akamai Object Storage, Azure Blob Storage, Google Cloud Storage (GCS), and AWS S3. These storage options ensure reliable and scalable distribution, making the content available for further delivery via Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) or playback platforms. Configurations are optimized to maintain high performance and compatibility across diverse streaming environments.

Setting Up Your Live Encoding Workflow

Setting up your live streaming workflow with the Bitmovin Live Encoder is both flexible and user-friendly. The platform offers three distinct methods to configure inputs, encoding settings, and outputs:

API: For developers seeking full control and automation, Bitmovin’s powerful API allows for detailed customization of every aspect of the workflow, from input specifications to encoding profiles and output destinations.
Templates: Customisable templates simplify the process of configuring the live encoder with the full range of API features, enabling users to quickly replicate consistent setups for recurring live events, saving time and ensuring uniformity.
Dashboard UI: The Bitmovin Dashboard provides an intuitive user interface that guides users through the configuration process with a step-by-step wizard, making it ideal for those new to live streaming or looking for a straightforward setup option. Additionally, the Dashboard allows users to independently create and manage inputs and outputs, offering the flexibility to configure specific parts of the workflow as needed.

These flexible configuration methods empower you to tailor every part of your workflow (input, encoding, and output) to suit your specific needs, ensuring reliable and high-quality live streams with minimal effort.