Overview
The Video tab within the Advanced Settings of each source in Hive provides precise configuration controls over how your camera outputs its signal into the Hive environment. Whether your source is connected via USB, HDMI, SDI, or IP, this tab allows you to manage the format, resolution, frame rate, encoder profile, and streaming behavior — ensuring your signal is optimized for your production needs.
This article explores the three major sections of the Video tab:
Output Configuration
NDI Sub-Tab
RTSP Sub-Tab
Step-by-Step: Navigating to the Video Tab
Launch Hive and select the appropriate organization and studio.
In the Source Tray, locate your video source and click the cogwheel icon in the lower-right corner of its tile.
In the Advanced Settings window, click the "Video" tab at the top of the interface.
1. Output Configuration
Video Output Types and Frame Rates
Output Type | Max Supported FPS |
USB | 60 FPS |
HDMI | 60 FPS |
SDI | 60 FPS |
IP (RTSP) | 30 FPS (typical) |
Note: Some cameras or encoders may lock output rates based on physical port configurations or internal firmware constraints. Hive will show only what's available based on the selected driver.
Refresh Rate
Frequency at which your camera's image is refreshed (Hz). Options depend on your camera's internal capabilities.
Encoder Profile
Low – Simplified, lightweight compression for constrained networks
Main – Balanced quality and bandwidth
High – High-efficiency, sharp visuals, moderate bandwidth
Ultra – Best visual quality, highest bandwidth usage
Choosing the right profile depends on your available upload bandwidth and your visual quality requirements. For cloud-based production, "Main" or "High" is often optimal.
2. NDI Sub-Tab – Network Device Interface Output
NDI Format
Ultra – Maximum bitrate and image fidelity
High – Excellent balance of clarity and performance
Medium – Suitable for most multi-source workflows
Low – Lower data rate for congested or limited networks
NDI Discovery Server (Toggle)
Enable this if your network uses a centralized NDI Discovery Server for managing NDI routing across multiple subnets or segments.
NDI Multicast Server (Toggle)
Enable this to use multicast streaming, which allows multiple devices to receive the same stream without duplicating bandwidth use per device.
Important: Your network hardware (switches and routers) must support multicast protocols for this feature to work reliably.
3. RTSP Sub-Tab – Real-Time Streaming Protocol Settings
RTSP Authorization
Enable this toggle to require a username and password for devices attempting to access the RTSP stream. Credentials are typically provided by your camera manufacturer.
Encoding Type
H.264 (AVC) – Widely supported, efficient compression
H.265 (HEVC) – Better compression efficiency, requires more CPU/GPU
MJPEG – Uncompressed, low-latency, high-bandwidth usage
Use H.264 for compatibility, H.265 for advanced workflows, and MJPEG only when minimal latency is absolutely necessary.
FAQs
1. Why can't I see all output ports or frame rates listed? The options available depend on your camera model and selected driver. Some ports may be disabled or locked by firmware.
2. What's the difference between Refresh Rate and FPS? FPS refers to how many frames per second your camera sends, while Refresh Rate relates to how often the image is updated internally.
3. Should I enable NDI Discovery Server and Multicast? Only enable these features if your network is configured to support them.
4. Where do I find my RTSP username and password? Check the product manual or the web interface of your camera.
5. Can I change encoding types on the fly? Yes, but doing so may briefly interrupt the stream.
6. How do I test if my RTSP stream is protected? Try connecting to it from a third-party player like VLC.
Use Cases
1. Tuning NDI Stream Quality for a Multicam Shoot — Select "Medium" or "High" in NDI format.
2. Creating an Encrypted RTSP Feed for a Control Room — Enable RTSP Authorization and use H.265.
3. Optimizing USB Output to Match Streaming Encoder FPS — Select 60 FPS.
4. Reducing Bandwidth Use in a Campus Environment — Use NDI Multicast Server.
5. Aligning Encoder Profile with Remote Collaboration Needs — "Main" or "High" profiles for cloud workflows.