Overview
RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol) sources can be added to Hive to support IP cameras, and compatible encoders. This setup guide walks through how to input stream URLs, verify connectivity, and ensure your source is recognized by the system when adding new sources to your studio.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Discover Sources
Access the RTSP Setup Panel by navigating to your source settings, or add a new source.
2. Input Your RTSP Authentication
IF RTSP Authorization is enabled: You will need a user name and password. Your manufacturer will provide you with this when you purchase the hardware.
If you cannot find it or do not have the original documentation, please search for it from your manufacturer’s help center or contact your manufacturer’s customer service to get it.
3. Configure Video Settings
Your video protocol will be RTSP
The Stream URL for your camera should Auto-Populate in the “Stream URL” field. If it does not, please connect to your camera’s WebUI and pull the Stream URL from the web interface.
Once you confirm both the protocol and the stream URL, choose the bridge you wish to connect it to. You can select which linked studio bridge to connect it to if it is within the same network as the RTSP source.
Hive will automatically attempt to establish connection. Check your connectivity by clicking the button below. If the connection is good, you should see your video signal in the preview box to the right of the window.
4. Connect Control Settings: Brand & Model
Hive has hundreds of drivers unique to the make and model of your camera. Choose the correct make and model to get the most out of your hardware control.
Choose the brand of your camera from the drop down menu. If you do not see it, choose ‘Other’.
Choose the model of your camera from the second drop down menu. You cannot choose the model without selecting the manufacturer first. If you do not see your model, please select ‘Other’.
Your camera’s hardware name and IP Address will automatically populate the ‘nickname’ field. You can rename your source as you wish from here.
5. Connect Control Settings: Networking
On the next page, you can see your connection type, such as VISCA over IP, HTTP, or no control. Choose which setting you wish to use in theHive UI.
In the IP Address field, Hive will auto-populate the camera’s internal configured IP in the field. If you would like to change it, you may change the camera’s IP settings in the field manually.
NOTE: This may affect your camera’s connection and is considered a “Risky Setting”.
If you want to change your protocol from UDP or TCP, Hive will automatically pull your settings for you. Simply choose your preferred net protocol from the drop down menu.
6. Successful Connection
When your camera is successfully added, it will take a few moments for your controls to link with your camera. Your controls will not function immediately. This is an expected occurrence and varies from camera to camera.
A loss of internet service will not effect local RTSP Streams, but will effect cloud connections.
How It Works and What to Expect
RTSP streams are ingested directly via the Hive software, using the URL provided
Hive listens for ONVIF communication from the local network connected to the bridge. Once Hive detects your camera, you will see it in the Device Discovery panel after clicking Add New Source.
If credentials or paths are incorrect, the stream will fail to load and you will receive an “Authentication Failed” error.
Tips, Limitations, and Best Practices
RTSP URLs are case-sensitive; verify exact formatting
Ensure the camera and Hive are on the same subnet or routable over LAN/VPN
Use VLC or browser-based test tools to check RTSP validity before adding to Hive. Many manufacturers have WebUI’s in the camera’s firmware that allow you to get this information quickly and easily. Please refer to your manufacturer’s documentation for more information.
Public-facing streams may require firewall rules or NAT port forwarding
FAQs
1. What is an RTSP URL?
An RTSP URL is a network address used to request a video stream from an IP camera or encoder.
2. My RTSP stream won’t connect... what’s wrong?
Check your credentials, IP address, and ensure the port you had listed when you added the source is open.
3. How do I test the stream before using Hive?
Use a tool like VLC Media Player. Paste your RTSP URL into the “Open Network Stream” field.
4. What if the stream is delayed or lags?
Check network congestion and reduce resolution or bitrate on the source device.
5. Can I add more than one RTSP stream per camera?
It depends on the device. Most allow one or more streams.
6. Do I need special ports open?
Typically, port 554 is used. Your camera’s documentation may specify more.
Use Cases
Integrators add ceiling-mounted PTZ cameras into Hive for control and streaming for their multi-cam meeting rooms.
Streaming from NVRs into Hive for single-dashboard preview
Configuring backup feeds using third-party IP encoders.
Broadcasting lecture halls, auditoriums, or surveillance feeds in real-time.
Conclusion
RTSP integration allows you to expand your video input options using IP-based camera systems. With the correct URL structure and network setup, Hive makes it simple to pull in external video feeds for live viewing, automation, or recording.