Uscreen offers multiple ways to live stream, including our advanced RTMP option for creators who want more control over their production. This guide will help you set up a professional live stream using third-party tools like OBS Studio.
ℹ️ INFO: This article is intended for advanced users comfortable with the technical aspects of streaming. If you prefer a simpler solution, we recommend using Uscreen Live Studio.
Setting Up Your Live Stream
Step 1: Create Your Live Event
Navigate to Content > Live Streaming
Click on Add New
Choose the Stream software | RTMP option
Step 2: Configure Event Details
Enter a compelling Title and Description for your event
Organize your stream by selecting appropriate Categories and an Author
Upload a custom Thumbnail to attract viewers
Step 3: Set Schedule and Access Options
Select the Start Date and Time of the event
Choose your Access and Purchase Options
Make it available to active subscribers
Allow one-time purchase access
Set it as free for all users
Step 4: Enable Engagement Features
Toggle Live Chat to allow viewers to interact during your stream
Enable Donations if you want to accept contributions
Set any other additional options as needed
🔗 Learn more about the Live Chat
Step 5: Publish Your Event
Set Visibility to Published to make it available in your catalog
Click Save Changes
📝 NOTE: Double-check all your settings before going live. Make sure your event visibility is set to Published and verify your Access settings to ensure the right audience can view your stream.
Setting Up Your Stream Key
The Stream URL and Key are what connect your streaming software to Uscreen.
ℹ️ INFO: Stream keys can be reused for future events. Wait at least 5 minutes between events when reusing the same key.
In the Live Event editor, locate the RTMP section
You'll find your Stream URL and Stream Key
Copy the Stream Key by clicking the Copy Key option
📝 NOTE: Keep your Stream Key private. Anyone with this key can stream to your event.
Configuring Your Streaming Software
We recommend OBS Studio, a free and powerful streaming tool available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Setting Up OBS
Open OBS and click Settings
Navigate to the Stream tab
Under Service, click Show All and select Uscreen
Paste your Stream Key in the designated field
Click OK
to save changes
🔗 Learn more about Streaming with OBS Studio
Testing Your Stream
Always test your stream before going live to ensure everything works properly.
In OBS, click Start Streaming
In Uscreen, go to your Live Streaming editor
Under the RTMP card, click Test Player
Wait for at least 60 seconds to see your content appear during testing
💡 TIP: Test your stream at least 5 minutes BEFORE going live to prevent it from being visible to your audience.
Going Live
Once you've tested your setup and are ready to broadcast:
Ensure your streaming software (OBS) is streaming
In Uscreen, click Start Live Stream
Your stream is now live and visible to your audience
💡 TIP: Start streaming in your streaming software 30-60 seconds before clicking Start Live Stream in Uscreen to prevent viewers from seeing a black screen.
Ending Your Live Stream
When your event is complete:
In your streaming software, click Stop Streaming
In Uscreen, click Finish Event
to end the live stream
📝 NOTE: Make sure to end the stream in both Uscreen and your streaming software to ensure proper recording.
After Your Live Stream
Once you end your live event:
Your recording will be automatically processed and saved
Navigate to Content > Videos to find the recording (initially unpublished)
Edit the recording if needed before publishing it to your catalog
You can also replace the recording with an edited version using the Replace option
🔗 Learn more about Replacing a Video
Technical Recommendations
For optimal streaming quality, use these settings in your streaming software:
Video Settings
Video Codec: H.264 (Main Profile)
FPS: 30 or 60 FPS (Uscreen is optimized for these frame rates)
Quality Options
Great Quality (1080p 30fps)
Bitrate: 5000 kbps
Keyframe Interval: 2 seconds
Minimum upload speed: 7.5 Mbps
Better Quality (720p 30fps)
Bitrate: 3500 kbps
Keyframe Interval: 2 seconds
Minimum upload speed: 5 Mbps
Decent Quality (480p 30fps)
Bitrate: 1000 kbps
Keyframe Interval: 5 seconds
Minimum upload speed: 3.5 Mbps
Other Popular Streaming Tools
While we recommend OBS Studio, you can also use:
StreamYard
Wirecast
XSplit
Zoom
Restream
ScaleEngine
📝 NOTE: Our support team can provide limited assistance with third-party tools. For complex issues with other software, we recommend switching to OBS or using Uscreen Live Studio.
FAQs
Can I use multiple cameras with third-party tools?
Can I use multiple cameras with third-party tools?
Yes, most streaming software allows you to set up multiple camera sources and switch between them during your broadcast. This is configured through the 3rd-party streaming software.
Why do I see "The stream is currently not active" message?
Why do I see "The stream is currently not active" message?
This indicates that you've started your live stream in Uscreen, but your streaming software isn't sending a signal. Check that you've started streaming in your software and that your Stream Key is correct.
Can I customize my stream with graphics and overlays?
Can I customize my stream with graphics and overlays?
Yes, third-party tools like OBS allow you to add custom graphics, lower thirds, transitions, and other professional elements to your stream.
What's the difference between RTMP and Uscreen Live Studio?
What's the difference between RTMP and Uscreen Live Studio?
RTMP allows for more advanced production features but requires external software. Uscreen Live Studio is simpler but has fewer customization options.
How do I improve my stream quality?
How do I improve my stream quality?
Use a wired internet connection, ensure your upload speed meets the requirements for your desired quality, and close unnecessary applications that might share and use bandwidth.