FAQ

Q: Can I easily travel with a LiveU backpack to different countries?

A: LiveU offers a variety of global roaming options, for more information visit our International Roaming page.

Q: Can I use LiveU for live TV and/or live web transmission?

A: LiveU is a professional-grade, broadcast-quality solution that support SD or HD quality video uplink at minimal latency, and is utilized by our customers worldwide for both live TV and live Web content.

TV/Studio broadcasters can easily install a physical LU1000 server in their studio, and utilize the server's SDI output to plug directly to their switcher for routing, editing, or pushing to a live program.

Web broadcasters can use a cloud-hosted virtual server (their own, one fully managed by LiveU, or one managed by a LiveU partner such as an OVP) which runs the LU1000 application. The virtual server also runs web encoding software (Flash Media Encoder, Window Media Encoder, H.264 etc) which then transmits the video as RTMP to the customer's CDN or live video platform of choice.

The in-studio physical version of the LU1000 can be used for either SDI output or web encoding.

Q: For TV/studio transmission, what are the back-end configuration requirements?

A: The LU1000 server needs to be connected to the Internet with at least 4Mbps uplink and downlink speed, with a fixed public IP address.

If network routing is involved, 2 UDP ports need to be forwarded to the LU1000, and Firewall should allow access.

The SDI card in the LU1000 Server then connects to the studio switcher for routing the video in the studio.

The server can be rackmount, desktop, or laptop, depending on the customer's specific workflow requirements. The LiveU server can accept simultaneous feeds from numerous LiveU field units.

Q: For direct-to-web transmission, what are the back-end configuration requirements?

A: There are a number of options for server configuration for web-only transmission (i.e video is published directly online, does not go through a studio first):

1.Virtual Server: you can run a cloud-based server to run the LU1000 Server Software (the LU1000 decodes all the data coming from the field unit). The same server will also run encoding software such as Flash Media Encoder, Windows Media, or H.264 which will then send the RTMP feed to your Content Delivery Network (CDN) or live video platform of choice. The virtual server can be configured and managed directly by the customer, or by LiveU.
 

2.LiveU Partners: customers using one of LiveU's official distribution partners can request to have the LU1000 server configured managed directly by the LiveU partner.

3.Physical Server: you can use a physical desktop, rackmount, or laptop server, connect it in your office (see requirements for Studio Back-End configuration above), and run a web encoding software on the same computer.

Q: Which web encoders, CDNs, and live video platforms do LiveU support?

A: LiveU supports any platform that can receive an encoded RTMP feed, using Flash Media, or H.264. Alternatively, a physical SDI output can be used to push video from the LiveU LU1000 server to any kind or hardware-based web encoders.

Q: Can I use LiveU with field editing/switching devices, tape decks, video switching board, and others?

A: Yes.

The LU60 can support any device that can output SD or HD video using SDI, HDMI, Analog, or Firewire output.

The LU30 can support any device that can output SD video via Firewire (other inputs may be supported with a variety of commercially available adapters).

Please note: LiveU devices accept raw video and then do their own video encoding prior to transmission. The video device needs to be set to the applicable video mode and not feed pre-encoded video.

Q: What's the battery life on the LiveU backpack?

A:

On LU60:

Internal Battery: up to 2 hours External Battery supplied by LiveU (hot-swappable): up to 3 hours (optional accessory with extra cost)
With just one external battery, combined with the internal, the unit can run for up to 5 straight hours. If using multiple external batteries, hot-swap can be performed 24/7, one battery charges while the other is in use. Anton Bauer/IDX/Sony V-Mount: varies by model. Hot-swappable.

The unit can also run on AC power or a car DC inverter for continuous usage. Internal also charges while unit is plugged into power supply.

Charge time: Internal and External Battery: 3-4 hours

On LU30:

Internal Battery: 60-90 minutes External Battery supplied by LiveU (hot-swappable): 2-3 hours (optional accessory with extra cost)
With just one external battery, combined with the internal, the unit can run for 3-4 straight hours. If using multiple external batteries, hot-swap can be performed 24/7, one battery charges while the other is in use. Anton Bauer/IDX: varies by model. Hot-swappable.

The unit can also run on AC power or a car DC inverter for continuous usage. Internal also charges while unit is plugged into power supply. Charge time:

Internal and External Battery: 3-4 hours

Q: Which cameras are supported by LiveU?

A:

LU60 supports practically any commercially available camera or video device that can output SD or HD video, using SDI, HDMI, analog or Firewire outputs.

The LU30 can support any commercially available camera or video device that can output SD video, using Firewire output (other outputs may be supported using a variety of commercially available adapters).

Q: Which video inputs are supported by LiveU systems?

A: 

On LU60: HD-SDI, SD-SDI, HDMI, Analog, Firewire.

On LU30: Firewire (others with adapters).

Q: Which audio inputs are supported by LiveU?

A: Audio is embedded with the video. Any audio input that can connect to the camera is supported. 

Q: Are audio and video in-sync?

A: Yes.

Q: Does the video go through a server controlled by LiveU?

A: In a TV/Studio workflow, the video goes directly to the server at the customer's facility. The video never goes through any LiveU-controlled servers (travels via the cellular towers and the cloud directly to the customer's server).

In a web-only workflow, customer has the choice between managing their own server to which the video will go directly, without passing through LiveU-controlled servers, or asking LiveU to manage a virtual server on the customer's behalf (in this option the video travels through a LiveU-controlled server before being redirected to the customer's CDN or OVP).

Q: Can you record on the LiveU server?

A: Yes. The LU1000 server can be set to save the original video files once transmission is complete.

Q: Which video outputs are supported by the LiveU server?

A: For TV/Studio environment the standard outputs are HD-SDI and SD-SDI. Other outputs may be supported upon special request.

For web-only streaming the server outputs an RTMP feed that is re-directed to the customer's CDN or OVP.

Q: What transmission bitrates can I expect when using LiveU?

 A: Depends on the cellular, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or BGAN conditions at the time and place of transmission, and on the capacity of cellular carriers in the specific country or area. Availability of 4G can also impact the available bitrate.

In good conditions, the LU60 can transmit at over 3Mbps (though it usually will not require that much). Average conditions are in the 1-2Mbps range. However, the unit can transmit effectively in as low as even 500Kbps, depending on the selected resolution and settings.

Note: since LiveU aggregates multiple 3G, 4G and other connections, the solution can be used both in areas that have 4G and those that don't. Also, by aggregating bandwidth on multiple carriers, and by using LiveU's proprietary antenna solution, the LU60 can transmit effectively from many dead spots and areas where a specific carrier (3G or 4G) may not have adequate coverage.

Q: How does the LiveU system workflow function?

Q: Can I use LiveU simply as a pipe, utilizing my own video encoder?

A: LiveU uses variable bit rate technology, in order to uplink live video in bandwidth conditions that can vary dramatically from second to second. In order to maintain high quality video and avoid drop-outs, the system uses its own video encoding. Therefore it needs to receive a raw video feed and cannot be used as just a pipe. The units do however support fast file transfer (FTP) using the same bandwidth.

Q: Can I provide my own modems or data plans?

A: You may use your own modems or data plans. However, LiveU strongly recommends our all-inclusive Turnkey Service Package, that provides you with worry-free data plan management so you never have to deal with multiple monthly invoices from different carriers; unexpected roaming, overage charges, or other fees; or run into data caps or throttling. Also, our service plan allows for very quick hardware swaps whenever needed (for upgrades, replacements, etc) since we can send you any standard configuration box in our inventory as opposed to moving your modems from one unit to another.

Q: How much does the unit weight?

A:

LU60: ~5kg w/battery
LU30: ~5.5kg w/battery

Q: Is LiveU a satellite provider or satellite-based solution?

A: No. LiveU is based on cellular networks (3G, 4G LTE/WiMAX). Our solution also supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet as options.

Also, customers who use BGAN satellite briefcases can utilize those in conjuction with our units to bond several BGANs together. However, the solution's primary uplink is based on terrestrial cellular uplink.

Q: What's the latency when using LiveU?

A: Latency starts from below 1 second depending on network conditions. The units have 3 latency settings that are each suited for different functions and resolutions. In general, latency is affected by the resolution selected, the bandwidth conditions in the field and the cellular modem internal delay. Once a certain latency mode is selected, that latency will stay consistent throughout the transmission (i.e. latency will not fluctuate in mid-transmission).

Q: Does LiveU support 4G LTE/WiMAX?

A: Yes, LiveU fully supports 4G LTE and WiMAX.

In areas or specific spots where LTE is not available or has low coverage/congestion, LiveU can still output high-bandwith using its bonded 3G cards.

Q: How/where can I get a LiveU system?

A: Depending on the country you're in, LiveU products are available either directly or via our distributors in over 60 countries.

LiveU products are available for long-term lease, rental, or capital purchase, depending on the market.

In the U.S, LiveU products are available directly or via a number of partners.

For more information about the options in your country, please contact us.

Q: Is LiveU available in my country?

A: LiveU is available via our network of distributors in over 60 countries. In some countries, LiveU is also available directly through us. To speak with the local representative in your region, please contact us.

Q: What are the advantages of the LiveU all-inclusive lease plan? Do I have to choose it?

A: The LiveU all-inclusive lease plan (Turnkey Service Package) is our recommended option.

The package includes all the components needed for your wireless transmission: data plans and modems; hardware and software (field units and servers); 24/7/365 premium customer support, complete warranty, software updates, and hardware upgrades.

The lease plans frees you from managing multiple data plans with the cellular carrier, eliminates the risk of roaming charges or erroneous cellular fees, and contains all the elements involved in your wireless unlink in one simple bill.

Perhaps more importantly though, in a world where cellular and video technologies advance at break-neck speeds, our continuous hardware upgrades mean you always carry the latest and greatest wireless uplink solution.

However, we understand that some customers prefer to purchase rather than lease. For those customers we also offer a capital purchase option in some countries. For pricing, please contact us.

Q: Where can I rent LiveU products for short-term projects?

A: In some countries including the U.S, LiveU is available for short-term rentals.

Short-term rental are provided either directly through LiveU, via our distributors in applicable markets, or via production partners who can also provide the complete production workflow (camera operators, editors, distribution and more).

Similar to our long-term lease option, rental fees include the complete transmission package: data plans and modems, hardware, software, warranty, and support.

Q: Does LiveU offer online distribution or management services (CDN, OVP, etc.)?

A: LiveU is an uplink technology provider, and as such, our primary focus is to develop the world's best possible portable uplink solutions.

For customers who require additional web distribution and video management services such as Content Delivery (CDN), or online video management tools, LiveU has partnered with a variety of live video platforms, Content Delivery Networks, and Online Video Providers who can provide these services in conjunction with LiveU in a seamless way. LiveU supports a variety of web encoding standards (Flash Media Encoder, Windows Media Encoder, H.264, etc.), and can deliver video to practically any CDN, OVP, or live video platform. For more information, please contact us.

Q: Does LiveU offer production services (cameras, production crew, etc.)?

A: LiveU is a technology provider, and as such, our primary focus is to develop the world's best possible portable uplink solutions.

For customers who require additional services such as camera operators, camera equipment rentals, and other production services, LiveU has partnered with a variety of live video platforms and production houses that are fully trained and authorized to provide LiveU products, as well as other production services. For more information, please contact us.

Q: Do I need to obtain my own modems and data plans for my LiveU unit?

A: No. When you lease LiveU products, data plans and modems are included in our service package (as are all other parts of the transmission solution such as warranty, 24/7/365 premium support, complete warranty, and upgrades. For more information, please visit our Turnkey Service Package page.