It has become quite popular to stream and record YouTube videos, and some people operate their YouTube channels just like conventional TV channels. In order to stream YouTube videos, you need various types of software, ranging from encoders to recorders and clip converters.
You also need proper hardware that will allow you to create the video, connect to the internet, and run the software applications. If you are planning to record and stream YouTube videos, some of the hardware requirements to think of include the following:
-
Powerful computer (preferably a PC)
It is still possible to stream and record from a laptop computer, but it is often advisable to use PCs as they are more suited for the purposes of broadcasting and streaming media.
You must be able to run the software applications and upload your videos to YouTube or stream directly to your channel.
This requires a computer, which is the most convenient device to connect to the internet on a wide screen. Ensure your computer has recent upgrades and is compatible with most modern software applications.
It should have sufficient RAM (4GB and above) as well as disk space, as streaming/recording takes up lots of space.
Most recent design PCs should be able to achieve the feat.
-
Video recorder/camcorder
In order to stream a YouTube video, you need to generate the clip or video. Streaming is a little different from uploading since the latter gives you a chance to finish editing before you upload it online. Streaming involves rendering the clip in real time.
However, you can still edit a full video and then stream it whenever you like. In fact, this is the common practice that makes YouTube streaming a little different from direct broadcasts from TV sets and boxes. Find a powerful video recorder or camcorder to capture your videos and clips.
Might interest you: Learn PHP the easy way
There are several camcorder models in the market, and finding one should not be an overwhelming task. Simply make sure the settings, capacity, and features are top quality to produce premium video clips.
-
Hardware encoders
Although you can use software encoders to convert data and media from the original format to one that can be streamed live on YouTube, it is still recommendable to invest in hardware encoders. These are basically devices using defined algorithms to convert media to a format that can be streamed.
The video quality is often preset, and there is little you can do to change this. While there are no free hardware encoders like you can find free software counterparts, some are as low as $100.
What’s more, hardware encoders are designed specifically for encoding, making them very fast and efficient.
They do not rely too much on your computer’s processing power like software.
-
Microphone and audio setup
You can always use the built-in device microphone found in your smartphone and video camera. However, YouTube video live streaming and recording require the microphone to be as close to the presenter as possible. This also influences whether or not you have to purchase YouTube subscribers or you’ll get them for free naturally with legitimate ways of getting YouTube views. It may be necessary to invest in an external microphone instead, as this will help you capture high-quality sound from your presenters.
The external microphones should be routed to an audio mixer before being fed into your computer, the camera, or the hardware encoder.
-
Capture and conversion hardware
Even with software encoders, you may still need a card or capture box to convert and digitize the video signal to a format that can be recognized by the encoding software.
However, those using a built-in camera on their smartphone or computer, dedicated encoding hardware, or USB camera will not have any need for additional capture devices.
-
Internet Connection Hardware
Whether you choose Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or LAN, you will need various hardware elements to help you connect to the internet. You may need to invest in LAN and Ethernet cables and/or Wi-Fi routers depending on what you are using to connect to the internet.
Conclusion
Live streaming and recording YouTube videos basically involve five main areas that may have hardware demands. These include the camera (for the video signal), microphone (audio signal), capture and conversion, encoding, and internet connection.
In these five areas, you may need to purchase one or two hardware components.
It is essential to remember that each category is crucial for successful streaming. For instance, low-level computers and weak internet connections will result in poor or no streaming at all.
Checking bandwidth and connection speeds are also of prime concern when purchasing your internet connection hardware.