While BoxCast has its very own streaming protocol (BoxCast Flow), you also have the option to stream from a third-party encoder of your choice via Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP). BoxCast provides the RTMP address so your encoder knows where on the BoxCast platform to send your audio and video data for streaming.
This article will teach you how to set up new RTMP sources and generate a stream name for your encoder. Check out our guides for guidance in setting up specific encoders.
Add an RTMP Source
Add an RTMP encoder encoder by navigating to the Sources page of your BoxCast Dashboard. Click the + Add a Source button, followed by the Add Source button for RTMP, then name your source as you wish before finally clicking Add Source.
As an alternative method for adding an RTMP source, or for simply viewing popular RTMP encoders, click RTMP options from the Sources page. To add a source listed, click the Add Source button for that encoder. The encoder name will be displayed by default, but you may be rename as needed before finally clicking Add Source.
Find An RTMP Source's Addressing
Click on the RTMP source to reveal more details. copy the source's Server URL and Stream Key to enter into your encoding device or software. It is worth knowing there are third-party encoders that require the entire RTMP address in one string - what BoxCast refers to as the RTMP URL.
Important Note
All generated URLs (as of Sept. 2023) are RTMPS. If your encoder does not support RTMPS simply remove the "s" from the URL (i.e. rtmps://rtmp.boxcast.com/live becomes rtmp://rtmp.boxcast.com/live)
It is not uncommon for third-party encoders to use different terms relative to what BoxCast refers to as Server URL, Stream Key, and RTMP URL. If you're not sure how to enter the RTMP address for your specific encoder, we recommend you contact the encoder's manufacturer directly or refer to their product documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many RTMP sources may I create?
Up to three RTMP sources may be be created per concurrent stream on your streaming plan. As an example, if your plan permits the simultaneous streaming of two broadcasts, you may add up to six RTMP sources. If you receive the error below but require additional RTMP sources, please contact questions@boxcast.com.
Does my RTMP source change?
No. Your RTMP source's addressing will not change unless you choose to Regenerate Stream Key.
If you need more help, feel free to reach out to our support team at questions@boxcast.com, or through the chat.