Next live Broadcast approaches

Norfolk Broads Live! Will be on air again from 1st April 2012 and there shall be no tom foolery just because of the date!

Since the first two trials of streaming live footage while afloat much has been learnt not only about the technology behind such, but the equipment one uses to make it all possible along too with how one should make such an event as interesting as possible.

There has been investment in equipment and learning of how best to use this for an improved viewer experience.  A new MiFi unit has been procured which offers up to 40% faster data rates (network dependent) and should mean improved quality in terms of both sound and picture as we shall be able to use more bandwidth.  Improved cables have been sourced to give a more consistent and stable connection from the cameras to the computer and coupled with a new high speed USB hub has meant an additional camera has also been purchased bringing the total number to 4.

After reviewing recorded footage of the previous live stream, while the commentary added some depth and interaction with the viewers in the chat room, it was otherwise a silent experience with no external sounds making watching the stream an eerily quiet experience. We have been experimenting with using a small sound mixer to mix an external microphone source to add further depth and reality to proceedings. 

This has proved problematical because of the slight, but perceivable time lag USB gives when mixing sound using a hardware mixer and matching such with the software based feed which takes the sound from the computers sound card. Due to this it may not be possible to have external and internal microphones in use simultaneously.  Further tests will be made to fine tune this and see if such can be used for the live stream because adding ‘real life’ sounds certainly would add to the experience.

We also looked into replacing USB webcams with higher quality IP cameras which would offer full pan and tilt capabilities complete with optical zoom.  However because of the practical problems of running such aboard a boat and not having the luxury of a router and/or switch to run such cameras over Ethernet, we have stuck with the easy to ‘plug and play’ USB webcams (they are also cheaper to replace should one fail or fall in the water).

A new intro opener has been commissioned especially for Norfolk Broads Live! Which will give a 3 minute countdown to the live stream (so you can all get settled in time for the off) and this gives chance to iron out any last minute technical problems before the live stream takes place – those 3 minutes are where the most pandemonium occurs ensuring all is in place and working!  

Naturally it is the viewers who make it really happen, it is your input in the chat room during a live stream that make things truly interactive so any input and ideas are always welcome.  Come April all being well you will be treated once more to join in the magic that is the Broads, from the comfort of your armchair.