If you are uploading HD video to TeamXStream and want to know the best settings to use, we have the details you need.

HD Settings

You can upload in 1080p or 720p.

1080p = 1920x1080 resolution

720p = 1280x720 resolution

16:9 aspect ratio

data rate = should be at least 3000 kbps

frame rate = 29.97 or 30 fps

Audio Sample Rate = 44 kHz

Audio bit rate = 128 kbps

Compression Format = H.264 AVC

Camcorder

If you are filming on an HD camcorder, there are several common scenarios.  Most HD camcorders will record the file in pieces to avoid extremely large files.   You can upload all of the pieces to us and select the "Merge Files" Option (assuming you have a plan that includes this feature).  

Many of our clients have a product called Elgato, which does a good job of merge/converting video files on mac.

We've recently started suggesting a product called Pavtube HD Video Converter because it does a very good job on both mac and windows.  Its a very inexpensive option.

Live Capture

If you are using Live Capture, you will likely have the game saved as a single MP4 or MOV file.   Go ahead and upload that file to TeamXStream.  The only format we cannot accept is Apple Intermediate Format (AIC)(icod codec).  If you have an AIC file, you will need to convert it first before uploading.  

If you are using a hardware device, such as Black Magic or Matrox, you can use one of their HD presets and they do an excellent job. 

DVD

If you have your game on a DVD, you likely have already lost the HD quality.  For this reason, we suggest avoiding the use of DVDs in your workflow.  Receiving your video on a flash drive or portable hard drives is both more economical and efficient.  That said, you can upload the DVD to TeamXStream in its current state and we will pull the video from it.

Compression

If you have an HD file that is extremely large, you may want to compress it first.  This is a delicate step, and if done wrong you could lose your HD quality.   It's important to use a compression tool that allows you to set the conversion options (see above).  Many tools, such as Elgato, have Presets for controlling the output settings for the video file.   For example, with Elgato you can choose the HD 720 Preset, plus you can fine tune the settings.   You might want to set the data rate in the range of 3000-6000 kbps.  The larger the data rate, the larger the file will be.  Some sports, such as water polo, require a higher data rate due to the movement of the water.

You should always choose the H.264 format when compressing your video.  

Memory Stick

If your game is recorded on a memory stick, the best option is to copy the video from the stick to your computer.  Once you have the files transferred to your computer, you can upload them to TeamXStream.  

On a Mac, the video files can sometimes be buried within various "packages" rather than typical folders.   Do a control-click on the package and select "Show Package Contents" to find the files.  They will typically be in MTS or M2TS format, depending on the make of your camcorder.

 

SD Settings

 

There are various SD video resolutions.   We'll focus on 360p and 480p.

360p = 480x360 resolution

480p = 640x480 resolution

4:3 aspect ratio

data rate = should be at least 1000-1500 kbps

frame rate = 29.97 or 30 fps

Audio Sample Rate = 44 kHz

Audio bit rate = 128 kbps

The descriptions above for Camcorder, DVD, Live Capture, and Compression are true for SD video as well.  To achieve the best results, aim for the highest resolution and data rate your camcorder will allow. 

Upgrading to HD

If you are considering an upgrade, we recommend Canon, and B&H Photo & Video is a great place to shop for gear. They have Consumer and Professional grade equipment, depending on your budget.   We have had great experience with the Canon XA20. Make sure you purchase a tripod with a fluid head, as this makes a big difference.