epiphan VGADVI BroadcasterPro, VGADVI Recorder Pro User Manual

Epiphan Technical
Documentation

©2013

Epiphan Systems Inc.

All Rights Reserved

August 2013

VGADVI Broadcaster

Pro™/VGADVI Recorder Pro™

User Guide

www.epiphan.com

Thank you for choosing Epiphan!

At Epiphan Systems Inc. (“Epiphan”), product function and quality are our top
priority. We make every effort to make sure that our products exceed our
customers’ expectations.

Product Feedback

We regularly contact our customers to ensure product performance and
reliability. We strive to continually enhance our products to accommodate your
needs. We welcome your feedback and suggestions for product improvements.
You can email your comments to [e-mail].

Specifications

You can go to the Broadcasting page of the Epiphan website to get information
about the System Pro.
You can go to the Recording page of the Epiphan website to get information
about the VGADVI Recorder Pro.

Warranty

All Epiphan Systems products are provided with a 100% return to depot
warranty for one year from the date of purchase.

Technical Support

Epiphan is staffed by a professional support team. If, after checking the FAQs
for your product on the Epiphan website and re-installing the Epiphan driver
software (where applicable), you continue to have outstanding issues, email a
problem report to [e-mail]. To help us solve the problem
efficiently, include the following info:

 Your VGADVI Recorder Pro/Broadcaster Pro serial number.
 The behavior of your VGADVI Recorder Pro/Broadcaster Pro LED

indicators.

 Technical description of the signal source including resolution, refresh

rate, synchronization, type of hardware.

 Complete description of the problem you are experiencing.

Copyright © 2013 Epiphan Systems Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Terms and Conditions

This document, the Epiphan web site, and the information contained therein,
including but not limited to the text, videos and images as well as Epiphan
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Epiphan, Epiphan Systems, Epiphan Systems Inc., and Epiphan logos are
trademarks or registered trademarks of Epiphan Systems Inc., in certain
countries. All Epiphan product names and logos are trademarks or registered
trademarks of Epiphan. All other company and product names and logos may
be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners in certain
countries.

Copyright © 2013 Epiphan Systems Inc. All Rights Reserved.

THE SOFTWARE LICENSE AND LIMITED WARRANTY FOR THE ACCOMPANYING
PRODUCT ARE SET FORTH IN THE INFORMATION PACKET OR PRODUCT
INSTALLATION SOFTWARE PACKAGE THAT SHIPPED WITH THE PRODUCT AND
ARE INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE. IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO LOCATE
THE SOFTWARE LICENSE OR LIMITED WARRANTY, CONTACT YOUR EPIPHAN
REPRESENTATIVE FOR A COPY.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS REGARDING THE PRODUCTS IN
THIS MANUAL ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. EPIPHAN
PERIODICALLY ADDS OR UPDATES THE INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTS ON
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BUT ARE PRESENTED WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED. USERS MUST TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR APPLICATION OF
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UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL EPIPHAN BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL,
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WEB SITE, EVEN IF EPIPHAN HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH

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DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL EPIPHAN'S TOTAL LIABILITY TO YOU FOR ALL
DAMAGES, LOSSES, AND CAUSES OF ACTION RESULTING FROM YOUR USE OF
THIS PRODUCT, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED
TO, NEGLIGENCE) OR OTHERWISE, EXCEED THE AMOUNTS YOU PAID TO
EPIPHAN DURING THE MOST RECENT THREE-MONTH PERIOD IN CONNECTION
WITH AMOUNTS WHICH YOU PAID FOR USING THIS PRODUCT.

INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS,
PROVIDED IN THIS DOCUMENT OR THE EPIPHAN WEB SITE ARE PROVIDED "AS
IS." SPECIFICALLY, BUT WITHOUT LIMITATION, EPIPHAN DOES NOT WARRANT
THAT: (i) THE INFORMATION IS CORRECT, ACCURATE, RELIABLE OR COMPLETE;
(ii) THE FUNCTIONS CONTAINED ON THE EPIPHAN WEB SITE WILL BE
UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR-FREE; (iii) DEFECTS WILL BE CORRECTED, OR (iv)
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VIRUSES OR OTHER HARMFUL COMPNENTS. EPIPHAN SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS
ALL REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND CONDITIONS, EITHER EXPRESS,
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NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, NON­INFRINGEMENT, TITLE, SATISFACTORY QUALITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE.

For additional terms and conditions, please refer to additional sections in this
document.

1 Table of Contents

1 Table of Contents ........................................................................................ 1

2 Overview ..................................................................................................... 5

2.1 Introduction............................................................................................ 5

2.2 Available Models .................................................................................... 6

3 Physical Attributes ...................................................................................... 7

3.1 System Hardware Features .................................................................... 7

3.1.1 System in Compact Server Form Factor ................................................. 7

3.1.2 System in 2U Rackmount Form Factor ................................................. 11

3.2 Cables, Connectors and Adapters ........................................................ 13

3.2.1 3.5 mm Mini-jack ................................................................................. 13

3.2.2 VGA to DVI Cable ................................................................................. 14

3.2.3 DVI to DVI Single Link Cable ................................................................. 14

3.2.4 DVI Dual Link Cable .............................................................................. 15

3.2.5 S-Video Cable ....................................................................................... 15

3.2.6 Composite to S-Video Cable ................................................................. 16

3.2.7 HDMI to DVI Adapter ........................................................................... 17

3.2.8 RJ-45 Male ............................................................................................ 17

4 Getting Started .......................................................................................... 18

4.1 Supplying Power to the System ............................................................ 18

4.2 Confirm Input Signals are Received ...................................................... 18

4.2.1 Checking the Signal from the Input Sources ........................................ 18

4.3 Network Connections ........................................................................... 19

4.4 Logging into the Web Admin Interface ................................................ 19

4.4.1 Epiphan’s Network Discovery Utility. ................................................... 19

4.4.2 Logging into the Web Admin Interface Using a Web Browser and the IP

Address of the System ....................................................................................... 20

4.5 Users Logging ....................................................................................... 20

4.5.1 The Administrator User ........................................................................ 20

4.5.2 The Viewer User ................................................................................... 21

4.6 Web Admin Interface ........................................................................... 21

5 Signal Flow Diagrams ................................................................................. 24

6 Video Formats and Standards .................................................................... 26

7 Signal Capture ........................................................................................... 27

7.1 Connecting Input Sources .................................................................... 27

7.1.1 Connecting DVI, VGA or HDMI Input Sources ...................................... 27

7.1.2 Connecting S- Video and Composite Input Sources ............................. 27

7.1.3 Connecting Audio Input Sources .......................................................... 27

7.2 Sources Setup ....................................................................................... 28

7.2.1 Capture HD/DL Card – Internal Frame Grabber ................................... 28

7.2.2 S-Video Source Setup ........................................................................... 30

7.2.3 DVI Source Setup.................................................................................. 31

8 Channel Setup ........................................................................................... 34

8.1 Creating a Channel ............................................................................... 35

8.2 Selecting Video Sources ....................................................................... 35

8.3 Naming a Channel ................................................................................ 36

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8.4 Picture In Picture Layouts ..................................................................... 37

8.5 Select Video Codec ............................................................................... 39

8.6 Set Video Encoding Constraints/Parameters ....................................... 40

8.7 Select Audio Format ............................................................................. 43

9 Streaming .................................................................................................. 43

9.1 HTTP or RTSP Streaming ....................................................................... 45

9.2 Using a Content Distribution Network ................................................. 46

9.2.1 Using Epiphan.tv Portal for Streaming ................................................. 48

9.2.2 Using Epiphan’s Partners as CDN Providers For Streaming ................. 52

9.2.3 Setting up Multicast from Publish Stream ........................................... 53

9.2.4 Setting up an RTP Multicast from Stream Setup .................................. 54

9.3 Viewing Streaming Video ..................................................................... 55

9.3.1 The Stream’s URLs for Publishing ........................................................ 55

9.3.2 Retrieving the Stream’s URLs from the Channel Page ......................... 55

9.3.3 Retrieving the Stream’s URLs from the Info Page ................................ 56

9.3.4 Testing How Participants Log In With a Viewer Password ................... 58

9.4 Viewing a Broadcast with a Browser .................................................... 59

9.4.1 Viewing a Broadcast with a Media Player ............................................ 59

9.5 Viewing a Broadcast on iPhone, iTouch, or iPad .................................. 59

9.6 Compatibility Information .................................................................... 60

9.6.1 Streaming format/Player Compatibility ............................................... 60

9.6.2 Browser Compatibility.......................................................................... 60

9.6.3 Media Player Compatibility .................................................................. 61

10 Recording .................................................................................................. 62

10.1 Selecting Recording File Format ........................................................... 62

10.2 Changing File Limits (Time and Size) .................................................... 63

10.3 Starting and Stopping Recording .......................................................... 64

10.4 Viewing the Current Recording ............................................................ 65

10.5 Recording a Stream on iPad, iPhone and iTouch ................................. 66

10.6 Recording Data in Motion JPEG Format ............................................... 66

10.7 “All-in-one” Recorder Option ............................................................... 66

10.8 Recording Video from Multiple Sources in a Single File with Separate
Tracks 66

10.9 Recording Video from Multiple Sources on One Track in a File ........... 67

10.10 Files Archive ......................................................................................... 68

10.10.1 Downloading Recordings ................................................................. 69

10.10.2 Deleting Files ................................................................................... 69

10.10.3 Renaming Files ................................................................................. 69

10.10.4 Viewing Completed Recording Files ................................................ 70

10.11 File Transfer of Recorded Files ............................................................. 70

10.11.1 Copying Recorded Files to a USB Flash Drive .................................. 71

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10.12 Automatic File Upload .......................................................................... 73

10.12.1 Configuring Automatic File uploads................................................. 74

10.12.2 Configuring the CIFS Client .............................................................. 75

10.12.3 Configuring the RSync Client ........................................................... 77

10.12.4 Configuring the FTP Client ............................................................... 78

10.12.5 Testing the Automatic File Upload .................................................. 79

11 Networking................................................................................................ 79

11.1 Connecting Directly to the System ....................................................... 79

11.1.1 Rescue Settings ................................................................................ 80

11.1.2 Connecting Directly to the System .................................................. 80

11.2 Network Discovery of the System ........................................................ 81

11.2.1 Epiphan’s Network Discovery Utility ............................................... 81

11.2.2 Epiphan’s EpiphanTouch App for iPad, iPhone, iTouch ................... 82

11.3 Setting IP Address ................................................................................. 84

11.3.1 Set the System to use a static IP address ........................................ 85

11.3.2 Set the System to use a DHCP server .............................................. 85

11.3.3 Performing Network Diagnostics ..................................................... 87

12 System Administration .............................................................................. 89

12.1 Setting the Date and Time .................................................................... 89

12.2 Configuring Administrator Access ........................................................ 91

12.2.1 To add or change the Administrator password ............................... 91

12.2.2 Deleting the Administrator password ............................................. 92

12.2.3 Delete the Viewer Password ........................................................... 92

12.3 Configuring Viewer Access ................................................................... 92

12.3.1 To add or change the viewer password ........................................... 93

12.3.2 Configuring IP-based Authentication for Viewers ........................... 93

12.3.3 Delete the Viewer Password ........................................................... 95

12.4 Upgrading the System Firmware .......................................................... 95

12.4.1 Installing new firmware ................................................................... 96

12.5 Maintenance Controls .......................................................................... 96

12.5.1 Restoring the System Default Factory Configuration ...................... 97

12.5.2 Rebooting or Restarting System ...................................................... 97

12.5.3 Shutting down the System ............................................................... 98

12.6 System Information .............................................................................. 98

13 Serial Port Configuring ............................................................................... 99

14 Customizing Presentation and Web Content ........................................... 100

15 Configuring Remote Support ................................................................... 101

16 Disk Check ............................................................................................... 105

17 Disk Status Information ........................................................................... 106

18 Configuring using a Third-Party Application ............................................. 107

18.1 Serial Port Configuration .................................................................... 107

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18.2 RS-232 Commands ............................................................................. 107

18.3 Syntax for HTTP API Commands ......................................................... 109

18.4 Keys for HTTP API Commands ............................................................ 110

18.5 System Info Keys ................................................................................ 110

18.6 Broadcasting Setup Keys .................................................................... 111

18.7 ASF Encoder Keys ............................................................................... 112

18.8 RTP Unicast Keys ................................................................................ 112

18.9 Recorder Keys ..................................................................................... 113

18.10 Examples ............................................................................................ 113

19 Troubleshooting ...................................................................................... 114

20 List of Figures .......................................................................................... 116

21 Configuration Worksheet ........................................................................ 121

Overview

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2 Overview

2.1 Introduction

Epiphan’s VGADVI Recorder Pro™ and VGADVI Broadcaster Pro™ are professional
multi-source audio-video hardware products that combine both Ethernet-based

streaming and recording functionalities. These products are ideal for streaming and
recording multiple visual sources for live events, webinars, presentations, lectures,
and training events. They capture video signals at resolutions up to 2048×2048 and
stream the input channels with a capture rate up to 80 FPS providing a simple and
cost-effective web presentation solution for trainers, tech support, conferences,
enterprises, events, sales staff, distance education providers, and more.

The Pro series of the Epiphan’s broadcasters and recorders features a wide range of
functionalities. It allows you to set up streaming and recording in the most suitable
manner making your video and audio content available for any audience no matter
how large it is. These versatile solutions have a variety options enabling you to

create and configure any number of streaming channels meeting different viewers’

needs whichever they are. Further in this document both products are referenced as
System.

You can configure the System to synchronize, stream and record video sources as
multi video channel streams. It is possible to configure multiple Picture-in-Picture or
Picture-with-Picture layouts, and specify the size and position of all input sources as
you want them to appear in the single output channel.

The System captures data from the following input sources (up to four, depending
on the model):

 a DVI/VGA/HDMI source,
 an S-Video or composite source, and
 an analog audio source.

Having created a required number of channels and configured encoding parameters
for each channel, you can stream video to one or several output URLs. Each channel
being streamed is automatically assigned a unique URL. The channel streams are
viewed in standard browsers and media players. The channel can be recorded to
.AVI or .MOV formatted files.

The key difference between the System models is their form-factors. The form
factor type defines the number of input ports that the model can have and the
possibility to select one of the available storage options for the model.

Overview

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Model

HD Compact

DL RM

Form Factor

Compact

Rackmount

Single-link DVI inputs

1

-

Dual-link DVI inputs

-

2

S-Video inputs

1

2

Audio input 1 1

Storage HDD

1TB

1TB

Model

HD Compact

DL Compact

HD RM

DL RM

Form Factor

Compact

Compact

Rackmount

Rackmount

Input Ports

Single-link DVI inputs

1 - 2

-

Dual-link DVI inputs

- 1 - 2 S-Video inputs

1 1 2

2

Audio input

1 1 1

1

The Rackmount models have twice as many input ports as the Compact form-factor
models.

VGADVI Broadcaster Pro has fixed storage size while VGADVI Recorder Pro has
flexible storage options.

The following section discusses the available models and the possibilities each of
them provides to a user.

2.2 Available Models

The System is available in different form factors and models to accommodate your
needs. Please refer to the table below.

Table 1 Available VGADVI Broadcaster Pro Models

Table 2 Available VGADVI Recorder Pro Models

Physical Attributes

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HDD Storage

Standard HDD
Storage

1TB

1TB

3TB

3TB

Removable storage 3
TB upgrade

- - 3TB

3TB

6 TB upgrade

- - 6TB

6TB

3 TB redundant
upgrade

- - 3TB

3TB

SSD Storage (instead
of HDD)

Upgrade HDD to SSD

- - 512GB

512GB

Removable storage

upgrade

- - 512GB

512GB

1 TB upgrade

- - 1TB

1TB

512 GB redundant

upgrade

- - 512GB

512GB

Note: all upgrade choices are mutually exclusive. You can select only one option for
your VGADVI Recorder HD RM or DL RM model.

3 Physical Attributes

3.1 System Hardware Features

The System is available in two form factors – Compact Server or 2U Rackmount – as
shown in the tables above.

3.1.1 System in Compact Server Form Factor

The System device in a compact server form factor is a 96mm (H) x 222mm (W)
x328mm (D) (3.8” x 8.7” x 12.9”) unit.

The VGADVI Broadcaster Pro HD Compact model available in Compact Server format
features:

- 1 DVI – single-link input, 1 S-Video input and 1 audio input

The VGADVI Recorder Pro models available in Compact Server format feature:

Physical Attributes

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Number

Name

Description

1

Not used

2, 3

USB port

This expansion port allows the connecting of any of the
following to the System: an external HDD, a USB flash
drive, a remote mouse control for the starting/stopping
of a recording (Red Button), or an RS-232 serial port for
remote controls.

4

Not used
5

Mic In

Connects a microphone or a line source.

- 1 DVI – single-link input, 1 S-Video input and 1 audio input (HD Compact

model)

- 1 DVI – dual-link input, 1 S-Video input and 1 audio input (DL Compact

model)

Figure 1 Front View of the System (Compact Server Form Factor)

The following table summarizes the connectors and indicators found on the front
panel of the System (Compact server form factor).

Table 3 Summary of the Front Panel's connectors and Indicators

Physical Attributes

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VGADVI Broadcaster Pro/VGADVI

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6

Factory Reset
Button

Resets the System back to its factory configuration
defaults. In order to avoid accidentally resetting the
device, a special sequence is required:

 disconnect power to the device,
 press and hold the Reset button as you

reconnect the power.

 the blue LED lights up.
 keep pressing the Reset button until the blue

LED turns off and the green LED lights up.

 release the Reset button.

Refer to the Rebooting or Restarting System section

for details.

7

Power and
Capture LED

Red: During operation the red color blinks each time
the System captures an image. The red color can be
used as an indicator that the System is capturing
images. When the input signal(s) stop(s) sending
images, the red color stops blinking.
Green and blue: When the System device first starts
up, the blue color lights up. A few seconds later the
green color lights up. After about another 20 seconds
the blue color turns off, leaving the green color on
indicating that the System has started up and can start
capturing images. During operation the blue color
blinks during video signal test operation and when the
system tunes video parameters (e.g. VGA parameters).
Blue: The blue color blinks to indicate that the System
is recording received images. If the files are not being
recorded, the blue color remains off.
Refer to the Restoring the System Default Factory
Configuration section.

8

Power button

Powers on the device

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Figure 2 Rear View of the System (Compact Server Form Factor)

Number

Connector

Description

9

Not used

10

S-Video

Connect S-Video and composite sources to the System.

11

RJ45 Gigabit
Ethernet

Primary 10/100/1000 Base-T RJ-45 Ethernet network
port to connect the System to an Ethernet network.
The System’s Ethernet port is auto-sensing.

12, 13

Not used

14, 15,
19, 20

USB 2.0

The USB 2.0 expansion ports allow the connecting of
any of the following to the System: an external HDD, a
USB flash drive, a remote mouse control for the
starting/stopping of a recording, or an RS-232 serial
port for remote controls.

16

Not used

17

Not used

18

Not used

21

Not used

22

Not used

23

Audio In

Blue connector: Connects an audio input source to the
System
Pink connector: Connects a microphone to the System

Physical Attributes

Below is a diagram detailing the connectors found on the rear panel.

Table 4 Summary of Connectors on the Rear Panel

Physical Attributes

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24

DVI-I

Connects DVI/VGA/HDMI input sources to the System

Number

Name

Description

1

Factory Reset
Button

Resets the System device to factory default settings. To
use this button, disconnect power to the device, press
and hold the Reset button as you reconnect the power.
Release the Reset button. The device starts normally

3.1.2 System in 2U Rackmount Form Factor

In this form factor the System is assembled in a standalone 2U rackmount chassis.
Dimensions: 88 x 422 x 493mm (3.5” x 16.6” x 19.4”).

The VGADVI Broadcaster Pro model available in Rackmount format features:

- 2 DVI – single-link inputs, 2 S-Video inputs and 1 audio input (DL RM

model).

The VGADVI Recorder Pro models available in Rackmount format feature:

- 2 DVI – single-link inputs, 2 S-Video inputs and 1 audio input (HD RM

model)

- 2 DVI – dual-link inputs, 2 S-Video input and 1 audio input (DL Compact

model)

Figure 3 Front View of the System (Rackmount)

The following table summarizes the connectors and indicators found on the front
panel of the System (RM).

Table 5 Summary of the Front Panel's connectors and Indicators

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VGADVI Broadcaster Pro/VGADVI

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but with all settings returned to factory defaults.

2

Power

Power button

3

LAN indicator

Indicates that the System is connected to a network.

4

HDD activity

Blinks when the System is making recordings.

5

Power
indicator

Indicates that the System is turned on.
Number

Connector

Description

6

Not used

7, 12

USB port

These are USB 2.0 expansion ports.

8

RJ45 Gigabit

Ethernet

Primary 10/100/1000 Base-T RJ-45 Ethernet network
port to connect the System to an Ethernet network.
The System’s Ethernet port is auto-sensing.

9

Not used

Figure 4 Rear View of the System (RM DL)

Physical Attributes

Figure 5 Connectors on the Rear Panel of the System (RM DL)

The following table summarizes the connectors found on the rear panel of the
System (RM DL).

Table 6 Summary of Connectors on the Rear Panel (RM DL)

Physical Attributes

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10

Not used

11

Not used

13

Audio In

Blue connector: Connects an audio input source to the
System
Pink connector: Connects a microphone to the System.

14, 17

DVI-I (Dual­Link)

Connects DVI, VGA, HDMI sources.
15, 18

Not used

16, 19

S-Video

Connect S-Video and composite video sources.

20

Serial port

Connects devices supporting serial communication
interface.

3.2 Cables, Connectors and Adapters

The System can be connected to a number of different types of equipment using a
variety of cables and adapters. This section describes a subset of connectors, cables
and adapters that are known to be compatible with the System.

3.2.1 3.5 mm Mini-jack

A 3.5mm mini jack connector is used to carry audio signals. It can be connected to
System’s Audio In port.

Figure 6 3.5mm Mini-jack

Physical Attributes

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3.2.2 VGA to DVI Cable

Connects a VGA source to either of the System’s DVI single-link ports. This cable is
included with the System.

Figure 7 VGA to DVI cable

3.2.3 DVI to DVI Single Link Cable

Connects a DVI source to either of the System’s single-link DVI ports.

Physical Attributes

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Figure 8 DVI to DVI Single Link Cable

3.2.4 DVI Dual Link Cable

Connects a DVI source to either of the System’s dual-link DVI ports.

Figure 9 DVI to DVI Dual Link Cable

3.2.5 S-Video Cable

Connects an S-Video output analog source to the System’s S-Video port.

Physical Attributes

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Figure 10 S-Video Cable

3.2.6 Composite to S-Video Cable

Connects a composite output analog video source to the System’s S-Video port.

Figure 11 Composite to S-Video Cable

Physical Attributes

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3.2.7 HDMI to DVI Adapter

Connects an HDMI source to either of the System’s DVI ports. This cable is included
with the System.

Figure 12 HDMI to DVI Cable

3.2.8 RJ-45 Male

Connects the System to an Ethernet network.

Figure 13 RJ-45 Male Cable

Getting Started

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4 Getting Started

4.1 Supplying Power to the System

The main operation sequence for connecting and powering on the system is as
follows:

1. Connect video and audio sources to the System.

2. Use an RJ-45 Ethernet cable to connect the System’s Ethernet port to an

Ethernet network.

3. Connect a 3.5 mm audio source or microphone to the corresponding Audio

In ports of the System.

4. Connect the power cable to the System.

5. Press the Power button on the front panel to turn on the System.

6. The System powers on. The power and hard disk activity LEDs light up as

the device starts up following their start up sequence.

7. Start up the video and audio sources.

Confirming that the input signals are being received by the System can be done once
the System has been powered on and the input sources have been started.

4.2 Confirm Input Signals are Received

Confirming that the input signals are being received by the System in Compact form­factor (HD Compact and DL Compact models) can be done once the System has been
powered on and the input sources have been started.

Check that the System’s red LED is blinking. A blinking LED indicates that the System
is capturing images. If the red LED does not start flashing, check the input sources
to ensure that they are transmitting a signal. Additionally, check that all cables from
the input sources to the System are connected correctly.

4.2.1 Checking the Signal from the Input Sources

The System does not come equipped with a mechanism to confirm the quality of
the video input being received via its input video sources prior to recording or
broadcasting signals. However, you can check the presence of the DVI/VGA/HDMI
or S-Video/composite signal on the DVI Source Setup or S-Video Source Setup page
accordingly. These pages are described in the DVI Source Setup and S-Video Source
Setup sections.

Getting Started

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VGADVI Broadcaster Pro/VGADVI

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If the signal is being captured through the input port, its resolution is displayed on
the page as shown on the figure below.

Figure 14 Input Signal Resolution on DVI Source Setup Page

4.3 Network Connections

Please to refer to the Networking chapter for the instructions on direct System’s
connection to the Ethernet, discovering the System on the network, IP address
settings and other details.

4.4 Logging into the Web Admin Interface

The Web admin Interface is accessible by logging into it using one of the following
methods.

4.4.1 Epiphan’s Network Discovery Utility.

The Epiphan Network Discovery Utility can be installed and executed from a
workstation running Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7. The following steps explain
how to access the Web admin Interface through this utility:

1. Start the Epiphan Network Discovery Utility tool.

2. Click Search to find all of the Epiphan devices on the network and select the

System.

3. Click Web config.

4. A web browser starts and you are prompted for the System’s administrator user

name and password.

5. Enter the following information:

User Name: admin
Password: configured password<return>, there is no default password so unless
a password has been configured, just hit <return>

The Web admin interface opens.

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Alternatively, the Network Discovery Utility can be used to retrieve the System’s IP
address and access to the Web admin Interface will be done using a browser.

4.4.2 Logging into the Web Admin Interface Using a Web Browser and the

IP Address of the System

The web browser can be running on Windows, Mac OS X, Linux or any other
operating system.

1. Start a web browser on any workstation connected to the same network as

the System.

2. Browse to the System.

http://<IP address of the System>/admin
The IP address of the System can be obtained using any of the following
methods:

a. The Epiphan Network Utility
b. The EpiphanTouch app
c. From the network administrator
d. Using the Factory Default static IP address. Only if the steps in

section, Connecting Directly to the System, are followed

3. Log in as the System’s administrator user

User Name: admin
Password: configured password <ENTER>, there is no factory default
password so unless a password has been configured, just press <ENTER>

The Web Admin Interface opens.

4.5 Users Logging

The System comes with two pre-configured users which are used to log in the
control interface.
The first is the administrator user. Its user name is admin.
The second is the viewer user. Its user name is viewer. Each user can be assigned a
password but their user names cannot be altered. It is not possible to create new log
in users.

4.5.1 The Administrator User

The administrator user is used to log into the System and perform any of the
following functions:

1. Perform configuration changes to the System.

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2. Manage the current broadcast. This can include the starting or stopping of the

recording of the broadcast.

3. Manage previously recorded broadcasts including the archiving of recordings.

4. System monitoring. This would involve retrieving any system statuses and

retrieving the solid state memory status.

5. Upgrading the System Firmware from Epiphan Support. New firmware is

released to fix known problems or to add new features.

As a default factory setting, the administrator user does not come with a password
but it is recommended that a password is configured as early as possible for security
reasons.

4.5.2 The Viewer User

The viewer password is used to log in to view broadcasts and does not have any
administrative ability.

As a default, the viewer user does not come with a factory configured password.
Configuring a viewer password is optional.

4.6 Web Admin Interface

In this section you can see a diagram showing the Web admin Interface’s main

menu. It is located on the left side of the screen.

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Figure 15 Web Admin Interface's Main Menu

Channels

Here you can create, configure, delete channels and

Getting Started

The following tables briefly describe each of the options on the Web admin
Interface’s main menu.

Table 7 The Channel section of the Web admin Interface

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The Channels submenu
options available for each
channel, are displayed in

italic below.

manage recordings for the channels. Each channel’s
stream can be recorded separately or combined with
another stream in a video file.
To configure the channel and review the channel’s
information, select the required channel under this
section. The sub-menu opens in a drop-down list.

Channel Status

Displays URLs of the broadcast and services state

Stream Setup

Changes the stream settings and name the channel

Publish Stream

Sends the stream to a remote streaming server

Video Source Setup

Selects a video source(s)

Files Archive

Starts/stops recordings in the selected file format and
manages video archive

Add channel

Creates a new channel

“All in one” recorder

Records all channels simultaneously in the selected file
format.

Sources

Selects a source under this section to open its sub­menu in a drop-down list. It allows you to set up a
source.

Admin Access

Changes the admin account password.

Viewer Access

Changes the viewer account password.

Network

Changes the System network configuration.

Audio

Changes and adjusts the audio input.

Date and Time

Changes System date and time settings.

Branding

Customizes design of the browser where the broadcast
is viewed.

Firmware Upgrade

Upgrades the System firmware.

Maintenance

Reboots or shuts down the System device. Restores

factory configuration.

Info

Displays information about the System Firmware, CPU,

Frame Grabber and VGA Mode.

Automatic File Upload

Automatically copies files from the System device to a
network storage device.

Serial Port

Integrates the System with other equipment featuring
an RS-232 port and control your device over the RS-232

Table 8 The Sources section of the Web admin Interface

Table 9 The Configuration section of the Web admin Interface

Getting Started

Signal Flow Diagrams

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connection.

Disk Check

Sets a Maintenance Schedule for checking the System
solid-state memory for errors.

Disk Status

Displays the total hard disk space in GB, used and
available hard disk space in GB, and also the amount
used as a percentage of the total space.

5 Signal Flow Diagrams

A series of diagrams below depicts how signal capture, encoding, streaming and
recording is performed.

Figure 16 Data Capture Flow

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Figure 17 Data Recording Flow

Signal Flow Diagrams

Figure 18 Data Streaming Flow

Video Formats and Standards

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6 Video Formats and Standards

The System supports recording and streaming of various standards and formats. The
choice of video format will depend on the broadcast content and performance
requirements. For example, Motion JPEG does not support audio from an external
source. It also depends on how the intended viewers are planning to receive and
play the stream. Keep in mind that browser viewer capabilities and compatibilities
are subject to change.

The System can stream video using the following formats: Flash (H.264), ASF
(MPEG4 or H.264 codecs), Motion JPEG or RTSP (MPEG4 or H.264 codecs). A quick
definition of these video streaming methods and the type of application that a
viewer would use to watch that particular video stream is now provided.

The Adobe Flash Video file type is proprietary but is supported on most web
browsers and on many media players including the VLC Media Player. This file type
supports the H.264 standard. This video supports analog audio from an external
source.

The Advanced System Format (ASF) file type also know as Advanced Streaming
format, can be viewed with the Windows Media Player or the VLC Media Player.
Additional codecs may need to be installed to view ASF files. This file type supports
H.264 and MPEG4 standards. This video supports analog audio from an external
source.

The Motion JPEG file type records each frame in the video in JPEG format and can
be viewed using most web browsers. This video format does not support analog
audio from an external source.

The RTSP type supports many media players including QuickTime and MPlayer. This
file type supports H.264 and MPEG4 standards. This video supports analog audio
from an external source.

Media Player, Browser, Viewer capabilities and

compatibilities are subject to change.

Signal Capture

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7 Signal Capture

7.1 Connecting Input Sources

It is recommended that prior to powering up the System, the input sources are
connected first. DVI, VGA or HDMI sources connect to the System using its DVI input
port(s).Alternatively or additionally, you can connect an S-Video or composite
source to the System using the System’s S-Video port(s).

Audio input is connected to the System’s Audio in port.

7.1.1 Connecting DVI, VGA or HDMI Input Sources

All DVI, VGA or HDMI input sources are connected to the System using the DVI input
port. How this connection is made and using which cable is dependent on the input
source.

Any DVI source connects to the DVI single-link or dual-link port, using Figure 8 DVI to
DVI Single Link Cable.
A VGA input source connects to the DVI single-link using the VGA to DVI cable,
Figure 7 VGA to DVI cable.
An HDMI input source is connected to the DVI single-link or dual-link port, using
Figure 12 HDMI to DVI Cable. Note that only non-copy protected content can be
streamed or recorded from an HDMI source.

7.1.2 Connecting S- Video and Composite Input Sources

When using an S-Video input source with the System, the connection between this
input source and the System is done using the S-Video Cable, Figure 10 S-Video
Cable and the System’s S-Video input port.

For all composite video input sources, the connection is made using the Composite
to S-Video cable, Figure 11 Composite to S-Video Cable.

7.1.3 Connecting Audio Input Sources

All audio sources are connected to the System using the audio input port.

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7.2 Sources Setup

The System can capture and stream signals from multiple sources using its DVI and
S-Video ports. The sections below describe how the System captures signals and
how to configure the sources connected to the System’s ports.

The Capture HD/DL Card – Internal Frame Grabber section describe the internal
Capture HD/DL card and how it is integrated into the System.
The S-Video Source Setup section explains how to set up sources connected to the
System’s S-Video port.
The DVI Source Setup section explains how to set up sources connected to the
System’s DVI port.

7.2.1 Capture HD/DL Card – Internal Frame Grabber

A frame grabber is an electronic device that captures individual still frames from a
video source and transmits them in a digital form. In order to capture data from
DVI/VGA/HDMI and S-Video/composite sources, the internal frame grabbers ­Capture HD and Capture DL cards, depending on the model, - are integrated into the
System’s motherboard.

A Capture HD card is used in the System’s HD models. This card features a DVI
single-link input and an S-Video input. A DVI single-link connector supports DVI
single-link signals as well as HDMI/VGA signal (through the adapter). Single-link DVI
connections are capable of video resolutions up to 1920x1200. An S-Video input
supports S-Video and composite (through the adapter) signals.

A Capture DL card is used in the System’s DL models. It features a DVI dual-link input
and an S-Video input. A DVI dual-link connector supports DVI dual-link and single­link signals as well as HDMI signals (through the adapter). Dual-link DVI connections
are capable of video resolutions up to 2048x2048 or 2560x1600. An S-Video input
supports S-Video and composite (through the adapter) signals.

The models in Compact form factor (HD Compact and DL Compact models) have
only one Capture card and feature one DVI and one S-Video input each. The models
in Rackmount form factor (HD RM and DL RM models) have two Capture cards and
feature two DVI and two S-Video inputs each.

The Capture HD or DL frame grabber card is a subsystem component in the System.
Each of its inputs can be configured separately, as explained in the following
sections. The serial number of the internal frame grabber card installed in the
System is displayed in the left part of the Web admin interface in the Sources
section. In our example below it is D2P83385.

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The System automatically adjusts image capture settings every time it starts up. The
automatic image adjustment is repeated every 60 seconds during operation. The
interval between automatic adjustments can be changed to have them occur more
or less often. The capture settings attempt to produce the best quality captured
image for the equipment being used.

Normally, making manual image adjustments should not be necessary. This means
that there are no default frame grabber adjustment settings. However, special
requirements may exist that produce image quality problems that can only be fixed
by making image adjustments.

When you clicking on any of the Capture card’s configuration options in the Sources

section of the Web Admin interface, the Frame grabber settings page displays. You
can select a Dxxxxxx.vga option to configure the source connected to the DVI input,
or Dxxxxxx.video option to configure the source connected to the S-Video input
where xxxxxx is the serial number of the selected Capture card. It contains most of
the information needed to make image adjustments. This includes a brief
description of the effect created as a result of each adjustment and the adjustment
range.

Note that if you purchased an HD RM or DL RM model, you are able to use and set
up to four sources. These models have two frame grabber cards integrated into the
System and each of them has its own serial number. In this case the following
configuration options will be available in the Sources section:

Dxxxxxx.vga
Dxxxxxx.video
Dyyyyyy.vga
Dyyyyyy.video

where xxxxxx is the serial number of the first Capture card, and yyyyyy is the serial
number of the second Capture card.

To make an adjustment, add a value to one or more fields and select Apply.

To clear any adjustments, delete the value from one or more fields and select Apply.

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Autoadjustments interval

Change the interval between automatic adjustments
if you want them to occur more or less often. To
suspend automatic adjustments, enter 0.

Figure 19 Sources of the System with One Capture Card

7.2.2 S-Video Source Setup

The following settings can be made for the source connected to the S-Video port of
the System’s Capture card:

Figure 20 S-Video Source Setup

Table 10Settings Available on the S-Video Source Page

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Vertical shift

Configure the vertical shift to offset the captured
image’s position. For example, a captured image that
is shifted slightly downward or vertically can be
corrected with minor adjustments to the vertical shift
settings.
Increasing or decreasing the value entered in the
Vertical Shift field shifts the image up or down.

Horizontal shift

Configure the horizontal shift to offset the captured

image’s position. For example, a captured image that

is shifted slightly to the right or horizontally can be
corrected with minor adjustments to the horizontal
shift settings.
Increasing or decreasing the value entered in the
Horizontal Shift field shifts the image to the right or
left.

Signal Type

Composite
S-Video

Rotate

Select a required value to rotate the video while
streaming:

 No rotation
 90⁰ clockwise
 90⁰ counter clockwise
 180⁰

7.2.3 DVI Source Setup

The following settings can be made for the source connected to the DVI port of the
System’s Capture card:

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Figure 21 DVI Source Setup

Use signal from

Indicates the color space/encoding of the incoming
signal:

- VGA/DVI signal (RGB)

- Component signal (YCrCb)

Autoadjustments interval

Change the interval between automatic adjustments
if you want them to occur more or less often. To
suspend automatic adjustments, enter 0.

Vertical shift

Configure the vertical shift to offset the captured

image’s position. For example, a captured image that

is shifted slightly downward or vertically can be
corrected with minor adjustments to the vertical shift

Signal Capture

Table 11 Settings available on the DVI source page

Signal Capture

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settings.
Increasing or decreasing the value entered in the
Vertical Shift field shifts the image up or down.

Horizontal shift

Configure the horizontal shift to offset the captured

image’s position. For example, a captured image that

is shifted slightly to the right or horizontally can be
corrected with minor adjustments to the horizontal
shift settings.
Increasing or decreasing the value entered in the
Horizontal Shift field shifts the image to the right or
left.

Phase

Configuring the phase, or sampling phase as it is also
known, adjusts the horizontal resolution of the
image. An improperly adjusted phase will result in a
fuzzy image. Adjust the sampling phase in small steps
until a sharper image is displayed.

PLL adjustment

Configuring the PLL adjusts the vertical
synchronization properties of the image. The PLL
adjustment may need to be changed when there is a
repetitive distortion or blurriness on the horizontal
axis of the image. Adjust the PLL setting in small steps
until a sharper image is displayed.

Offset

Use the offset and gain controls together to optimize
image quality. Increasing the offset reduces
background noise but also reduces the overall signal.
Balance offset and gain values to achieve the best
quality image. Adjust these settings by the smallest
values possible to achieve the best results.
Compensate for a large change to one by making a
large change to the other, but setting both offset and
gain to high values can result in poorer video quality.

Gain

Use the offset and gain controls together to optimize
image quality. Increasing the gain amplifies weak
signals but also increases noise. Balance offset and
gain values to achieve the best quality image. Adjust
these settings by the smallest values possible to
achieve the best results. Compensate for a large
change to one by making a large change to the other,
but setting both offset and gain to high values can
result in poorer video quality.

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Aspect ratio

Sets the aspect ratio of the captured image. The
default aspect ratio is 4:3. The aspect ratio can be set
to wide mode in order that the System can
accurately capture wide aspect ratio modes.

HSync threshold

Adjusts horizontal sync detection

VSync threshold

Adjusts vertical sync detection

Rotate

Select a required value to rotate the video while
streaming:

 No rotation
 90⁰ clockwise
 90⁰ counter clockwise
 180⁰

8 Channel Setup

When you log in the Web Admin interface, under the Channels section you can see a
list of customizable channels as well as an “All in one” recorder option. Refer to the
Recording chapter to know more about “All in one” recorder.

The channels functionality of the System defines which input source is streamed
through one or another channel, which codec is used for streaming and how the
encoding parameters are configured for this particular channel. Therefore you can
create multiple channels for streaming from the same source. You have the
following choice of approaches to select from:

- specify different streaming protocols for each channel. This approach helps

an administrator to accommodate multiple end-user requirements without
using CDNs. To know more about CDNs, refer to the Using a Content
Distribution Network section.

- specify different encoding parameters. Thus you will accommodate the

streaming for viewing in different networks.

- configure different channels to use different file types and/or bitrates for

recording and for streaming.

It is possible to create multi-source channels. These channels are used to stream
video from more than one input source. You can apply a multiplexing feature to
create multiple views of the same input channels configuring different layouts. Refer
to the Picture In Picture Layouts section for details.

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You can create as many customizable channels as you want and delete them if
necessary. The following sections explain how you can create, customize and use
these channels.

The options in the Channels section of the Web Admin interface allow you to create
and name the channel, specify from which source or sources the video/audio signal
is streamed through this channel, set up streaming characteristics, manage the
channel recordings, enable Publish Stream functionality if required and finally delete
the channel.

The channel’s options are accessed by clicking the channel’s name under the
Channels section.

Normally, the channel’s settings include the following steps:

1. Create a channel

2. Name a channel.

3. Select a source or sources that are streamed through this channel.

4. If you selected two sources in the previous step, specify the channel’s layout.

5. Select a video codec.

6. Select video encoding constraints/parameters.

7. Select audio format.

8.1 Creating a Channel

To create a channel, click Add channel in the Channels section of the Web Admin
interface.

8.2 Selecting Video Sources

You can configure a created channel to be used for streaming data either from a
specific source or multiple sources.

1. Click Video Source Setup.

2. Click the down-arrow near the Use video source field and select the required

source.
To select input from a DVI port, select Dxxxxxxx.vga.
To select input from an S-Video port, select Dxxxxxxx.video.

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The sources available for selection depend on the Capture cards integrated into
the System’s model. It can be either two sources (1 DVI and 1 S-Video) for a
Compact model, or four sources (2 DVI and 2 S-Video) for an RM model.

If you need to configure the channel for streaming from multiple sources, select
Multiple sources.

Figure 22 Sources Selection

3. Click Apply.

8.3 Naming a Channel

1. Click Stream Setup.

2. Enter the channel’s name in the Channel name field (for example, VGA/DVI).

3. Click Apply.

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Figure 23 Naming a Channel

Source

Select a source for which position and size are specified

Position

Specify the location of the video stream picture on the
screen (in percents, starting from the left upper corner)

Size

Set size of the video stream picture on the screen as
percentage of screen size (height and width)

Delete

Delete this source and related settings

Add source

Add another source for setting layout

Channel Setup

8.4 Picture In Picture Layouts

If you plan to stream or record video from multiple video sources through the same
channel, you can create a layout for the channel, i.e. specify how videos from all
sources are positioned on the screen relative to each other. Prior to this operation
make sure you have configured the channel for selecting from multiple sources, as
explained in the Selecting Video Sources section.

First you need to associate video from each source with the selected channel and
then specify how video from this channel will be positioned on the screen. This
operation is performed on the Media sources page (the channel’s Video Source
Setup section). The position and size of each video in a layout can be adjusted as
described below.

The following multiplexing options are available:

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Use audio from

Select a check box to add an audio input to the channel.

To create a layout for the videos from multiple sources (in our example, there are
two sources, digital and analogue):

1. Select the channel configured to use from multiple sources as described in the

previous sections. Make sure it is named accordingly (for example, VGA/DVI + S­Video).

2. Click the channel’s Video Source Setup section. Now you are on the Media

sources page.

3. Click Add source and select the first source.

4. Click the down arrow near the Source field and select the first source from the

drop-down list.

5. Use Position and Size fields to specify picture and size position on the screen for

the first source.

6. Click Add source and select the second source.

7. Click the down arrow near the Source field and select the second source from

the drop-down list.

8. Use Position and Size fields to specify picture and size position on the screen for

the second source.

9. Use the Local Audio checkbox to add an audio input to the channel if necessary.

Note: This instruction is given for the case when there are no sources on the Media

sources page at the moment when you start configuring the Multi sources channel.
In case there are any, you can either delete them clicking the Delete command and
create the new ones or adjust the existing sources.

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Figure 24 Setting Position and Size for Multiple Sources

Channel Setup

8.5 Select Video Codec

Before you start to record video from the channel, you have to specify the video
codec for your recording. This selection can be done on the Stream Setup section of
the channel’s page.

To select the video codec:

1. Select the required channel.

2. Click the Stream Setup option.

3. Click the down arrow near the Stream Type field.

4. Select the required value from the drop-down list.

You can select:

 Flash video with either FLV or H.264 codecs
 ASF stream with either MPEG4 or H.264 codecs
 Motion JPEG
 RTSP with either MPEG4 or H.264 codecs.

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Fast encoding

Enables fast encoding. Using this check box may affect
the streaming quality to some extent.

Video encoding profile
Select one of the following encoding profiles that target

specific classes of applications:

1. Baseline: for applications requiring additional

data loss robustness

2. Main: for standard-definition broadcasts

3. High: for broadcast and disc storage

applications

Show time label

If the video needs to be time labeled, this parameter
allows you to specify how the date and time will be
displayed. You can add here some text if necessary.
Click on Show substitutions and use the Format
substitutions commands to select the desired date and
time format. The commands are described in table 12
Format Substitutions Commands below.
If time labeling is not required, leave this field blank.

Frame size

Select a frame size from the available values depending
on aspect ratio. This setting allows you to limit the width
and height of the video image. If the video source is
sending resolutions larger than the resolution limit
configured, the video image will be scaled to the
resolution limit. Limiting the file resolution can help to
reduce bandwidth usage.
To enter non-listed resolutions use the blank fields next
to available values.

Flash video and Motion JPEG can be viewed using many operating systems and web
browsers.
ASF can be viewed with the Windows Media Player on Windows systems, and the
VLC Media Player on Windows and other operating systems.
RTSP supports many media players including QuickTime and MPlayer.

8.6 Set Video Encoding Constraints/Parameters

The following parameters can be additionally specified for a channel:

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Key frame interval

Controls the number of frames. Key frames define the
starting and ending points of any smooth transition.

Limit frame rate

Enter a value in terms frames per second. This field is
used to set a frame rate that is lower than the maximum
frame rate at which the System can capture images.
Reducing the frame rate reduces the number of images
being captured by the device.

Bitrate

Enter a signal bitrate. A lower bitrate produces lower
quality videos and smaller file sizes. A higher bitrate
produces better quality videos and larger file sizes.

Rate control mode
Used for H.264 and MPEG4 codecs. It specifies the

bitrate encoding for the signal. Select one of the

following:

 Relaxed - allows the bitrate to increase

temporarily to maintain image quality

 Balanced - balances the bitrate restriction and

the image quality

 Strong - maintains the bitrate restriction and

temporarily reduces the image quality

Stream port

The number of the port being used to stream the
broadcast. This value is part of the URL used to access
the broadcast. In the case where there are two streams
from different ports, this value remains the same for
both of the URLs being used.

Command

Value

Example (27/09/2012
10:50:45.378)

date

%F

2012-09-27

year

%G

2012

month (as 01)

%m

09

month (as
Jan)

%b

Sep

month (as
January)

%B

September
day of month

%d

27

weekday (as

%a

Thu

Table 12 Format Substitutions Commands

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Thu)

weekday (as
Thursday)

%A

Thursday
time

%T

10:50:45

hour

%k

10

minute

%M

50

second

%S

45

ms

%#m

378

Figure 25 Stream Settings

Channel Setup

Figure 26 Common Settings

Streaming

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Enable audio

Select this checkbox to enable audio for
the broadcast.

Audio format

Select either MP3 or Raw PCM (Pulse
Code Modulation) formats.

Audio sample rate (Hz)

Number of samples per second that are
used to digitalize audio input.

Audio bitrate

Select the audio bitrate value for the
broadcast.

8.7 Select Audio Format

The Audio settings pane in the control interface can be accessed by clicking the
Stream Setup option from the menu.
Select the Enable audio checkbox and specify the audio signal parameters.

Figure 27 Audio Settings

9 Streaming

There are several decisions that need to be made when planning the creation of a
broadcast, besides its exact content of the broadcast. Will the broadcast include an
audio component coming from an analog audio source? What video format to use,
what video standard to use, how to stream the broadcast are all questions that have
to be answered when creating a broadcast. Most of the answers depend on the

Streaming

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intended audience of the broadcast, how are the viewers going to view the
broadcast, and how many simultaneous viewers are expected to view the
broadcast? Where are the viewers located in relation to the where the broadcast is
being streamed? What are the performance expectations? These are the types of
questions that will determine the overall design of the broadcast.

This chapter outlines how a suitable design of a broadcast can be architected based
on these types of questions and their resulting answers and how the System can be
used in this design.

The System supports streaming of various standards and formats. The choice of
video format will depend on the broadcast content and performance requirements.
For example, Motion JPEG does not support audio from an external source. It also
depends on how the intended viewers are planning to receive and play the
broadcast. Keep in mind that browser viewer capabilities and compatibilities are
subject to change.

With the System, video codec for streaming is selected by an administrator. After
this action the system creates a list of available streaming formats for this codec.
The figure below is representation of the protocol stack diagram showing how the
video data is processed.

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Figure 28 Protocol Stack Diagram

Streaming

How the broadcast will be delivered to its viewers depends on the number of
intended viewers and where the viewers are in relation to where the broadcast is
originating. Are they on the same LAN or will they be accessing the broadcast from
an external network? The answers to the above questions will help decide the
delivery method of the broadcast.

The System can support streaming over HTTP or RTSP, multicast RTP and a Content
Distribution Network (CDN) broadcast network. Each broadcast delivery method will
be now discussed in more details.

9.1 HTTP or RTSP Streaming

For HTTP or RTSP streaming the only information required for your numerous
viewers to access the broadcast is the URL of the broadcast. The System is ready to
go straight out of the box, without any additional settings.

If your broadcast is intended for the global audience, use a Content Distribution
Network as explained in the Using a Content Distribution Network section.

Streaming

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9.2 Using a Content Distribution Network

A content delivery network (CDN) is a system of computers or servers that ingest an
incoming stream source and rapidly provides this content to numerous users by
duplicating the content on multiple servers and directing the content to users.

CDN distributes a heavy load of traffic to multiple locations in order to avoid

congestion on a network that could impact a user’s Internet experience. A CDN is

highly scalable and can make financial sense to website owners as you will not need
to pay for additional server hardware or routing should your website traffic start to
increase. The use of CDN technology has obvious advantages to those users whose
broadcasts have large audiences from locations all over the world. If dozens or
hundreds of viewers happen to select the same Web page or content
simultaneously, the CDN sends the content to each of them without delay or time­out.

To stream to multiple users from any of its channels, the System can be configured
as a client to CDN. Please click http://epiphan.tv/cdn-partners.php to view the list of
CDN providers preferred by Epiphan. By connecting to a CDN server, the broadcast
from the System’s channel can be streamed to multiple viewers. By using a CDN, the
maximum number of concurrent clients is increased, while at the same time
reducing the load on the uplink Internet connection.

CDN streaming is a very effective approach when you are broadcasting streams from
the Epiphan solutions and want to add scalability to your broadcast. Using the
System’s Publish Stream functionality you can stream the broadcast via either the
Epiphan’s portal or CDN providers to multiple viewers. You must use the H.264
codec for CDN streaming.

Using CDN it is possible to set a user name and a password for the broadcast. Each
viewer will have to request it from you before viewing the broadcast. This function
allows you to manage access to your content ensuring visibility only to the
appropriate and authorized viewers.

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Figure 29 Using a CDN Service Increases Scalability of Concurrent Viewers

Streaming

The Publish Stream functionality allows for directing captured video and audio to
servers or clients using one of the available stream modes. The following options are
available in this functionality:

- Disabled. If this option is enabled, you cannot send multicast RTP stream,

perform CDN broadcasting or stream video to Epiphan’s portal.

- to xxxxx.epiphan.net. This option allows for streaming video to the

Epiphan’s portal.

- using RTSP announce. This option allows for connecting to CDN server.

- using RTP/UDP push. This option allows for IP multicast broadcasting.

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Figure 30 Publish Stream Options

Streaming

These options and settings to be performed are discussed further.

The Publish Stream functionality is available only for the H.264 video codec.

9.2.1 Using Epiphan.tv Portal for Streaming

To set up and perform channel streaming via the Epiphan.tv portal:

1. Select a channel.

2. Click the Publish Stream option in the channel’s menu.

3. Select to xxxxx.epiphan.net from the Publish drop-down list where xxxxx

is the unique serial number of the System.

4. Select the Enable publishing check box and click Apply. The system

informs you that stream will be available on the Epiphan’s portal and

provides a link.

Figure 31 URL to Epiphan Server

Streaming

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Switch to

Click this button to select a plugin which will be used for viewing the
stream. Refer to Figure 34 Plugins Available for Selection on the
Portal.
The following plugins are available:

- Flash RTMP

- Flash HTTP

5. Click this link and access the portal where the stream is being broadcast in

a new window.

6. In case you selected streaming format other than H.264, the system will

give you a warning and suggest changing it (see Figure 32 System
Messages in Case of Excessive Bitrate Speed and Incorrectly Selected
Stream). Click on fix by setting RTSP+H.264 stream.

7. In case the bitrate of your broadcast exceeds 500 kbit/s, the system will

give you a warning (see Figure 32 System Messages in Case of Excessive
Bitrate Speed and Incorrectly Selected Stream). Click on fix by reducing

bitrate to 500. The bitrate will be set to 500 kbit/s automatically.
Note: Epiphan.tv is a demonstration service to help customers experiment

with publishing streams to content distribution networks. Therefore
certain bandwidth and performance limits are applied. To upgrade to a full
service please select one of Epiphan’s CDN partners.

Figure 32 System Messages in Case of Excessive Bitrate Speed and Incorrectly Selected
Stream

Now connection through the media tunnel is established. The System starts
streaming to the Epiphan’s portal.

It is required to set up audio format as MP3 when streaming through the Epiphan’s
portal. This setting is performed in the control interface’s Stream Setup section.

There are several buttons available at the bottom of the epiphan.tv portal page (see
Figure 33 Epiphan’s Portal):

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- QuickTime

- VLC Player

Embed

Displays a code that allows you to embed video stream into your
web page. Refer to Figure 35 Code for Stream Embedding.

Direct URL

Displays a list of URLs for different types of broadcasting. Refer to
Figure 36 Listing of Direct URLs.

8. Click Switch to button and select a plugin for viewing the stream.

9. If you need to embed the stream into your web page, click Embed to

obtain the code.

10. Click Direct URL to obtain the list of URLs for different types of

broadcasting.

Figure 33 Epiphan’s Portal

Streaming

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Figure 34 Plugins Available for Selection on the Portal

Streaming

Figure 35 Code for Stream Embedding

Figure 36 Listing of Direct URLs

Alternatively you can configure System to stream their content through epiphan.tv
directly on the portal.

To view the stream directly on the portal:

1. Type http://epiphan.tv in the address bar of your browser.

2. Enter serial number of System. It is displayed in the Info section of the

Web admin interface.

3. Click the Go! button.

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9.2.2 Using Epiphan’s Partners as CDN Providers For Streaming

Use this option if you need to perform streaming on a remote streaming server
other than epiphan.tv. Please contact CDN support to request the list of supported
audio codecs and perform the required setting in the control interface’s Stream
Setup section.

To use this option:

1. Select RTSP Announce from the drop-down list.

2. Enter the host/server name. For example, 172.20.1.50.

3. Enter the number of port which is used for streaming to server. Usually for

RTSP streaming it is port 554.

4. In the Mount point field enter the full path to locate an SDP file on server.

This path is provided by the CDN provider.

5. The RTSP protocol uses UDP or TCP as transport layers. If your CDN service

requires TCP as a transport layer, select the Use TCP for RTP stream check
box.

6. If necessary, enter the user and password information.

7. Click Apply.

Figure 37 RTSP Announce Functionality

Streaming

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9.2.3 Setting up Multicast from Publish Stream

A multicast RTP stream provides a one-to-many broadcasting framework. In a
multicast RTP configuration, the System sends a packet only once to a router that
supports multicasting. This router then distributes the packets to all intended viewer
nodes using a multi-cast protocol.

A multicast address is associated with a group of interested receivers. In IPv4,
addresses 224.0.0.0 through 239.255.255.255 (the former Class D addresses) are
designated as multicast addresses.

Sending multicast streams requires equipment that supports multi-casting,
configuring your network and enabling specific multicasting features on the System.
Multicast architectures are used predominantly within a high bandwidth corporate
LAN and not on Internet based architectures. Multicast RTP streaming is not usually
propagated outside the LAN though it may be propagated through VPNs connecting
several LANs. Multicast transmission is available during RTP streaming.

Figure 38 Multicast RTP Broadcasting to More than One Viewer

RTP/UDP Push streaming allows you to direct video to a server or client and
generates an SDP file containing the stream description. SDP files can be stored on a
streaming server, or opened by video players.

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To use this option:

1. Select Publish Stream from the main menu.

2. Select RTP/UDP Push from the drop-down list.

3. Enter a destination multicast IP address. At this target point the broadcast

will be viewed.

4. Specify the numbers of the video and audio ports where the broadcast will

be received.

5. Click Apply.

6. An SDP file is now generated. It is available in the Info section of the Web

Admin interface. You can either save an SDP file on your local machine or
provide the link to SDP file to your audience.

Figure 39 RTP/UDP Push Functionality

Streaming

9.2.4 Setting up an RTP Multicast from Stream Setup

Alternatively you can set up an RTP Multicast from the Stream Setup channel’s
section:

1. Select the RTSP/H.264 stream type in the Stream Type field and click

Apply.

2. In the RTP/UDP stream section specify the following additional fields.

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Enable RTP/UDP stream

Select this checkbox to enable RTP/UDP streaming.

Destination IP

Enter the IP address of the target host.

Audio Port

Configure the audio port for the stream.

Video Port

Configure the video port for the stream.

Table 13 RTP Multicast Specific Configurations

3. An SDP file is now generated. It is available in the Info section of the Web

Admin interface. Select a name and location for the SDP file and save it.
Then pass the SDP file to your audience.

9.3 Viewing Streaming Video

The System may capture audio and video at resolutions up to 2048 x 2048. The
resolution of the broadcast may exceed this value, for example, in case of analog
video broadcasting.
Viewers can access the broadcasted video streams with a web browser that
supports Motion JPEG, MPEG4 or Flash Video/H.264 compression or with a media
player that is compatible with the stream format being transmitted. The available
video stream formats is determined by selected video codec. Audio is available for
all formats except from Motion JPEG.

9.3.1 The Stream’s URLs for Publishing

The System allows you to create and configure the required number of channels.
Each channel can stream video from a single source or multiple sources and is
configured separately. To provide that viewers log in and view a required channel’s
stream, the administrator must release the URL(s) of the stream. The administrator
is able to provide separate URLs for the streams coming in from the different input
ports. Alternatively, one URL can be provided that includes all the streams from all
input sources. The administrator can retrieve the appropriate stream URL or URLs
as explained below.

9.3.2 Retrieving the Stream’s URLs from the Channel Page

Regardless of which URL the administrator needs, all of the information about the

channel’s stream and its respective URLs can be retrieved by selecting the Channel
Status menu item from the selected channel’s page.

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If the channel streams video from one source, you can simply provide all viewers
with the Live broadcast URL from the channel’s page.

If the channel streams video from multiple sources as you have configured it in the
Picture in Picture layout, then Live broadcast URL is used to stream video from all
sources in the Picture in Picture layout.

To retrieve the Direct stream URL of a particular channel, select this channel’s page
(Channel Status option).

Figure 40 URLs of the Broadcast Displayed in the Channel Status Page

9.3.3 Retrieving the Stream’s URLs from the Info Page

The following indicates how you can access the URLs for the broadcast from the Info
page of the Web Admin interface.

When this page displays, you will see the Channels grid. It combines and displays all
information about the existing channels: names, video sources, stream types,

bitrate, frame size, FPS. Clicking the channel’s name will redirect you to the channel

page with the streaming URLs.

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Figure 41 The Channels Grid

Streaming

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Figure 42 A Broadcast with its URL Displayed Under the Broadcast Image

Streaming

9.3.4 Testing How Participants Log In With a Viewer Password

1. Start any web browser.

2. Using a browser, open the Open URL dialog box and enter the IP address of the

System device. For example, if the IP address of the device’s stream is
http://172.20.1.33, then browse to: http://172.20.1.33

3. Enter the following when prompted:

User Name: viewer
Password: enter the viewer password

4. Press Enter. If the System is capturing images and is streaming images over the

network, the viewer can see the visual information as it is transmitted.

Streaming

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9.4 Viewing a Broadcast with a Browser

If the administrator has configured a viewer password, participants must obtain the
password in order to log in. The administrator will also provide the IP address or the
URL to be used by the viewer’s browser.

To log in to view the broadcast using a browser:

1. Start any web browser.

2. Browse to the IP address of the System’s broadcast. For example, if the IP

address of the System’s broadcast is 172.20.1.33, then browse to: http://

172.20.1.33

3. Enter the following:

User Name: viewer
Password: (enter the viewer password).

4. Press Enter.

5. The broadcast begins to play within the viewer’s browser.

9.4.1 Viewing a Broadcast with a Media Player

If the administrator has configured a Viewer password, participants must obtain the
password in order to log in. The administrator will also provide the IP address or the
URL to use within the media player.

To log in to view a stream using a media player:

1. Launch the media player.

2. Use the Menu bar to open the URL dialog box and enter the URL address of

the stream.

3. When prompted, enter the following:
a. User name: viewer
b. Password: enter the viewer password.
c. Press Enter.

4. The stream begins to play within the viewer’s browser.

9.5 Viewing a Broadcast on iPhone, iTouch, or iPad

You can view a broadcast on iDevices using EpiphanTouch™. This discovery and
remote control application is available as a free download from iTunes and the App
store. It allows you to log into the device as the administrator user. Refer to

Streaming

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Epiphan’s EpiphanTouch App for iPad, iPhone, iTouch section for details.

9.6 Compatibility Information

This section provides information on compatibility of video streaming formats,
browsers and viewers which is necessary for streaming video.

9.6.1 Streaming format/Player Compatibility

The System can stream video using Flash (H.264), ASF (MPEG4 or H.264 codecs),
Motion JPEG or RTSP (MPEG4 or H.264 codecs). A quick definition of these video
streaming methods and the type of application that a viewer would use to watch
that particular video stream is now provided.

The Adobe Flash Video file type is proprietary but is supported on most web
browsers and on many media players including the VLC Media Player. This file type
supports the H.264 standard. This video supports analog audio from an external
source.

The Advanced System Format (ASF) file type also called Advanced Streaming
format, can be viewed with the Windows Media Player or the VLC Media Player.
Additional codecs may need to be installed to view ASF files. This file type supports
H.264 and MPEG4 standards. This video supports analog audio from an external
source.

The Motion JPEG file type records each frame in the video in JPEG format and can
be viewed using most web browsers. This video format does not support analog
audio from an external source.

The RTSP type supports many media players including QuickTime and MPlayer. This
file type supports H.264 and MPEG4 standards. This video supports analog audio
from an external source.

9.6.2 Browser Compatibility

Below is a list of browsers, operating systems and their supported video formats,
which is believed to be accurate at time of writing. For additional media browser
platform support, compatibilities and capabilities, please visit our website and/or
the relevant browser or plug in documentation.

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Browser

Motion JPEG

ASF

RTSP

Flash Video

(H.264)

Internet

Explorer 8

Mozilla

Safari

Chrome

Media Player

Motion

JPEG

ASF

RTSP

Flash Video (H.264)

Windows Media

Player (v.12)

MPlayer (Windows,

Mac OS, Linux)

Table 14 Browsers and Video Formats

In order to play ASF, RTSP, and Flash Video formats in browsers ensure that all
appropriate plug-ins are installed.

Browser/viewer capabilities and compatibilities are

subject to change.

9.6.3 Media Player Compatibility

Here below you can find a list of media players, operating systems and their
supported video formats, which is believed to be accurate at time of writing. For
additional media player support, compatibilities and capabilities, please visit our
website and/or the media player documentation.

Table 15 Media Players and Supported Video Formats

Recording

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QuickTime (Mac

OS)

VLC (Windows,

Mac OS, Linux)

The following media players support working with independent streams:

- VLC

- SMPlayer

- Windows Media Player

- QuickTime Player

10 Recording

The System captures video and audio data which can be encapsulated in a file or
files and recorded.

The Web admin interface provides the administrator user with the ability to start,
stop and configure the recording of the channels’ streams. Additionally, recorded
video files may need to be downloaded or copied to another device for archiving
purposes; also they may need to be deleted in order to manage disk space on the
System. For organizing, recorded video files may need to be renamed. All of these
management tasks are available via the System’s Web admin Interface.

10.1 Selecting Recording File Format

The format of the channel stream’s recording is specified using the channel’s Files
Archive option.

The required recording file format – MOV or AVI – can be specified for each channel
you are working with.

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To select a file format:

1. Select a required channel and click Files Archive.

The ability to manage a recording with the Web Admin interface is done
using the Recorded Files channel’s page.

2. Click the change command.

3. Use the File Type drop-down list to select the recording format (MOV or

AVI).

4. Click Apply.

Figure 43 Recording Format Selection

Recording

10.2 Changing File Limits (Time and Size)

The System can record the channel to one or more files according to time and file
size limit parameters. It will automatically create and start recording to a new file
whenever either limit is reached.

To specify the time and file size limit parameters:

1. Select a required channel and click Files Archive.

2. Click the change command on the page.

3. Select the parameters values from the drop-down list (see Figure 44

Changing Time Limit and Size Limit).

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Figure 44 Changing Time Limit and Size Limit

Time limit

Specify the maximum amount of time to record to a file.
When either the time limit or the size limit is exceeded,
the system starts recording data to a new file.

Size limit

Specify the maximum size of the recorded file. When
either the time limit or the size limit is exceeded, the
system starts recording data to a new file.

Recording

4. Click Apply.

Table 16 Time and file size limit parameters

10.3 Starting and Stopping Recording

The System provides different options for starting and stopping the configured
recording. You can do it directly from the Web Admin interface using the recording
buttons as explained below. Apart from these buttons, you can use the following
options to operate the recording function:

- Mouse

- Big Red Button

- RS-232 serial port (refer to the RS-232 Commands section)

Recording

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The recording buttons and recorder status for each channel are shown in its
Recorded Files section. To navigate to this section, select a required channel and
click Files Archive.

Figure 45 Recorder Status

To start a recording, click the Start button in the Recorder status section of the main
menu.

To stop a recording, click the Stop button in the Recorder status section of the main
menu.

To restart recording to the same file, click the Reset button. The device will append
data to the existing file.

To close the file being recorded and start recording to a new file, click Stop. Then
click the Start button again.

10.4 Viewing the Current Recording

You can view the broadcast as it is being recorded.

- If the channel is configured to record video from a single source:

Click the Live broadcast URL in the Channel Status section of the required
channel. A preview of the broadcast that is currently being recorded
appears in the web browser. The preview is exactly the same as what is
being recorded.

- If the channel is configured to record video from multiple sources:

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Click the Live broadcast URL in the Channel Status section of the required
channel. To view video from the particular source separately, click the
required Direct stream URL on a channel’s page.

10.5 Recording a Stream on iPad, iPhone and iTouch

You can record a stream on iDevices using EpiphanTouch™. This discovery and
remote control application is available as a free download from iTunes and the App
store. It allows you to log into the device as the administrator user. Refer to
Epiphan’s EpiphanTouch App for iPad, iPhone, iTouch section for details.

10.6 Recording Data in Motion JPEG Format

To configure the channel before recording data in Motion JPEG format:

1. Select Motion JPEG in the Codec field (Stream Setup section).

2. Use the Page refresh time parameter in the MJPEG webpage section on

this page to specify how often the browser updates the visual information
coming from the System. In other words, how often the page is refreshed

3. Click Apply.

10.7 “All-in-one” Recorder Option

The “All-in-one” Recorder option enables you to record video from all available
System’s inputs on separate tracks in a single file. To access it, click “All-in-one”

Recorder in the Channels section of the Web Admin interface. Refer to the next
section for details on using this option.

10.8 Recording Video from Multiple Sources in a Single

File with Separate Tracks

You are able to record video and audio signals from the sources connected to the
System in a single file with multiple video and audio tracks. When the sources are
connected to the System’s ports, complete the steps below to make recording in a
single file with separate tracks.

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To make recording:

1. Delete all existing channels.

2. Create the first channel, for example, VGA/DVI.

3. In the channel’s Video Source Setup section, select the required input from

the Use video source drop-down list.

4. Create the second channel, for example, S-Video.

5. In the channel’s Video Source Setup section, select the required input from

the Use video source drop-down list.

6. Complete steps 4-5 to create and set up more channels if required.

7. Make sure there are no other channels.

8. Select All-in-one-Recorder.

9. Click Start to start recording video. All tracks are recorded to a multi-track

file. The file can be found in the “All-in-one” Recorder channel’s page in a
files list.

Figure 46 “All-in-one” Recorder

Recording

10.9 Recording Video from Multiple Sources on One

Track in a File

You can record video and audio signals from multiple sources currently being used
on one video and one audio track. When the sources are connected to the System’s

Recording

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ports of the System, complete the steps below to make recording in one file with
separate tracks.

To make recording:

1. Create and configure the multi-source channel as explained in Selecting

Video Sources topic.

2. Click the channel’s Files Archive option.

3. Click Start to start recording.

4. To finish recording, click Stop. The streams are recorded in one file. This

file contains an audio track (if any) and a video track that combines video
from both sources in a picture in picture layout configured in the step 1.

10.10 Files Archive

The files archive for each channel lists all of the video files that are recorded by the
System through this channel and saved on it. To navigate to the files archive, select a
required channel and click Files Archive.

For each file, the list includes the name of the file, start and end times, duration, and
size in MB. Each recording file listing also includes icons that can be used to
download, delete, or rename the file.

Figure 47 Files Archive

Recording

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10.10.1 Downloading Recordings

Download recordings to either save or view them. You can download a single file or
multiple files as a single .zip file.

1. Click the channel’s Files Archive option.

2. Select the checkbox beside the file you want to download, or to download

multiple files, select the checkboxes beside all of them. Then select the
Download Selected button at the bottom of the file list.

3. Follow the instructions to download the file or files.

If you select the Download Selected button, all of the files that you have selected
are downloaded in a single zip file. You must unzip this file to view the individual
video files.

If you have downloaded multiple files, select Continue to return to the Recorded
Files page.

10.10.2 Deleting Files

The administrator user can delete files from the System to free up space on the solid
state memory. Files can be selected one at a time, or multiple files can be selected
to be deleted. Alternatively there is an option to delete all files that have been
previously downloaded.

1. Click the channel’s Files Archive section.

2. To delete individual recordings, select the Delete File icon

beside the file you want to delete. To delete multiple

files, select the checkbox beside the files you want to delete
and then select Delete Selected.

3. Follow the instructions to delete the file or files. The files are

deleted from the solid state memory.

10.10.3 Renaming Files

The administrator can rename one file at a time. Again, this function is done by
going to the Recorded Files section from the Web admin interface main menu.

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To rename a file:

1. Click the channel’s Files Archive option.

2. Select the Rename File icon .

3. Enter the new name for the file.

4. Select Submit.

10.10.4 Viewing Completed Recording Files

Completed recordings can be viewed using the Web Admin interface and a
compatible media player.

The instructions below explain how to view a closed recording file using the default
media player installed on a computer. These instructions will only work when using
the default player. To view a closed recording file using another player the closed
file will need to be downloaded or copied to a location that is accessible by the
player. The recorded file will then be opened from within the player itself.

1. Once the recording is completed, log into the Web Admin interface.

2. Select a channel from the main menu, then click Files Archive and click the

file that is to be viewed.

3. The system will suggest you to open the file with the computer’s

configured default viewer. For example, for systems running Windows,
the default player is the Windows Media Player.

4. The player opens the window with the channel. If you have recorded two

channels in separate video tracks of the file, the player will display them in
separate windows. If you have recorded two channels in one track, the
player will display them both in one common window.

10.11 File Transfer of Recorded Files

The System provides several options to automatically copy recordings to a network
storage location, or a USB Storage Key. This is a great feature for professional AV
service providers that want to send a copy of the presentation to the speaker before
they leave the presentation venue.

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10.11.1 Copying Recorded Files to a USB Flash Drive

The System is equipped with USB ports that can be used to copy recorded data from
the System to an external USB flash drive formatted with one partition in one of the
following file systems: FAT32, ext3, ext2, ISO 9660, HFS.

Figure 48 A USB Flash Drive Connected to a USB port Receives Recorded Data

A flash drive can be connected to the System any time. Stick a flash drive into a USB
port on the device and press lightly. The stick fits into the port only one way. After
inserting, the System will recognize the stick, however, this occurs without any user
notification whatsoever.

The System copies to the inserted USB flash drive, all previously recorded files

starting from the oldest record to the newest. The flash drive’s LED (if any) will be

blinking indicating data transfer. The System copies data to the flash drive until
there is not enough storage space for additional files or all recorded files have been
copied.

Due to speed limitations flash drives are not capable of recording data on the fly.
This means that while the previously recorded data captured by the System on its
internal solid state memory will be copied to the flash drive, the currently opened
recording file cannot be copied until the file is closed. Once closed, it is then
available for copying.

Once the data has been copied, safely remove the flash drive. To check its free
storage, files that have been copies and their size, insert the drive into a computer
and see its properties.

To safely remove the flash drive:

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1. Right-click the USB icon marked with a checkmark. It is located on the bottom

right of your taskbar. From the pop-up menu, click Safely Remove Hardware. A
small window will be displayed.

2. Select the USB flash drive you want to unplug then click the Stop button. A

confirmation window will appear. Click the appropriate hardware device, then
click OK. The Safe to Remove Hardware window will inform you that it's now
safe to unplug the USB flash drive from your computer.

To check its free storage, files that have been copies and their size, insert the drive
into a computer and see its properties.

The image below is a screenshot from the Web admin interface. Recording is
enabled. One file is open and not available for copying, the remaining files are
closed and can be copied.

Figure 49 One file is Unavailable for Copying as It Is Currently Opened

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Enable Automatic File Upload

Check this box to enable this feature,
uncheck this box to disable this feature.

Protocol

Select the upload client.

How often

Select how often video files are to be
uploaded. By selecting On file rotation,
the System uploads each video file after
it stops recording the current video file
and starts recording the next one. You
can also configure the System to upload
all video files every 1, 6, 12, or 24 hours.

Remote path

The path on the upload server to upload
the video files to. This path must match
an actual path on the server. If a path is
not entered, the files are uploaded to
the root location.

Remove after upload

If you select this checkbox, the video
files will be deleted on System after
uploading.
In case the check box is not selected, the
system check if there is enough place for
a new file based on the size limit value
(please refer to Changing File Limits
(Time and Size)). If there is not enough
place, the system deletes the oldest
files.

Mark file as downloaded

Select the checkbox to keep the files on
System after uploading copies to the
server. The filenames before uploading
are displayed in blue. The filenames

10.12 Automatic File Upload

The automatic file upload feature will automatically copy recorded video files from
the System to another device on your network. This feature’s page is reached from
the Web admin interface’s main menu by clicking on Automatic File Upload.

By uploading recorded broadcast files to another network device, these broadcasts
become available to be viewed from other device besides the System. This feature
also provides a method of automatically archiving recorded broadcast files after
they are closed.

Table 17 Automatic File Upload Configurable Options

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after uploading are displayed in purple.

Show log of automatic file upload

Use this command to display the log of
file uploads

Figure 50 Configuring the Automatic File Upload Feature

Recording

10.12.1 Configuring Automatic File uploads

Recorded files can be uploaded to a CIFS server (a Windows share), an RSync server,
or an FTP server.

1. Select Enable Automatic File Upload.

2. Set Protocol to FTP Client, RSync Client, or CIFS client depending on what

upload server is being used.

3. If the How often option is set to On file rotation, the System will upload

each video file after it stops recording to it. A file rotation can be forced by
clicking Reboot Now button in the Maintenance section. Alternatively, the
System can be set to upload all video files every 1, 6, 12, or 24 hours.

4. Set Remote Path to the path on the upload server to upload the video files

to. This path must match an actual path on the server. If a path is not
provided, the files are uploaded to the root location.

5. Select the Remove after upload checkbox to delete all video files on the

System after uploading them.

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6. Select Mark file as downloaded to keep the files on the System device after

uploading copies to the server. On the Web admin interface the download

icons for the uploaded files change to .
Note: In case you select both checkboxes (Remove after upload and Mark
file as downloaded) the files uploaded to server will be removed from the
device.

7. Configure the appropriate client for the designated upload server:

 If the upload server is a CIFS server (for example, a Windows

shared folder), select and configure the CIFS Client. See
Configuring the CIFS Client.

 If the upload server is an RSync server, select and configure the

RSync client. See Configuring the RSync Client.

 If the upload server is an FTP server, select and configure the FTP

Client. See Configuring the FTP Client.

8. Click Apply.

The first copy is made after the time period set in how often expires. For example, if
the System is set to upload files every hour, the first set of files is uploaded after one
hour. If five video files are saved in the first hour, those five video files are uploaded.
One hour later, all of the video files saved since the start of that hour are uploaded.

Video files saved before you selected Apply are not uploaded. For files saved before
Automatic File upload is configured, a manual upload process will have to be done.

10.12.2 Configuring the CIFS Client

Use the CIFS client configuration to have the System device behave as a CIFS client
connecting to a CIFS server (such as a Windows shared folder) when uploading
broadcast files. Different networks may have different CIFS server configurations. If
required, contact your network administrator for assistance with getting the System
to connect to the server. Depending on your CIFS server configuration you may not
have to enter information in every field shown in the following diagram.

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Figure 51 Configuring a CIFS Client

To configure the CIFS client:

1. Select CIFS Client in the Protocol field.

2. Enter the Server port if the CIFS server uses a non-standard port. If your

CIFS server uses standard ports you should not have to add any information
to this field. If your server uses non-standard ports or looks for a non­standard port first, enter the port number in this field.

3. Enter the Server address. This can be the numeric IP address or fully

qualified domain name of the CIFS server.

4. Enter Server share. This is the CIFS share name or the name of the

Windows shared folder on the CIFS server.

5. If required, enter the name of the CIFS Domain. The Domain can be a

Windows Domain or Work Group name.

6. Enter the Login and Password required to authenticate with the CIFS server

to connect to the server share.

7. Select the Use temp file check box to upload a temporary file. This prevents

you from using a file which is not fully uploaded yet. After the file is
uploaded, it is renamed to its original name.

8. Select Apply.

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The System will then attempt to connect to the CIFS server. The Web admin
interface displays messages about whether the System is able to connect to the CIFS
server and the status of the connection.

10.12.3 Configuring the RSync Client

Use the RSync client configuration to have the System act as an RSync client
connecting to an RSync server. Different networks may have different Rsync server
configurations. If required, contact your network administrator for assistance with
getting the System to connect to the server.

Figure 52 Configuring the RSync Client

To configure the RSync client:

1. Select RSync Client in the Protocol field.

2. Enter the Server address.

3. Enter Server module which is a directory on the RSync server.

4. Enter the Login and Password required to authenticate with the RSync

server to connect to the server share.

5. Select the Checksum checkbox to enable computing checksums algorithm

applied during file synchronization between sender and recipient servers.

6. Select Apply.

The System will then attempt to connect to the RSync server. The Web admin
interface displays messages about whether the System is able to connect to the
RSync server and the status of the connection.

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10.12.4 Configuring the FTP Client

Use the FTP client configuration to have the System act as an FTP client to an FTP
server to upload broadcast files. Different networks may have different FTP server
configurations. If required, contact your network administrator for assistance with
getting the System to connect to the server.

Figure 53 Configure a FTP Client

To configure the FTP client:

1. Select FTP Client in the Protocol field.

2. Enter the Server port if the FTP server uses a non-standard port. The

standard FTP port is TCP 21.

3. Enter the Server IP address.

4. Enter the Login and Password required to authenticate with the FTP server

to connect to the server.

5. Select the Use temp file check box to upload a temporary file. This

prevents you from using a file which is not fully uploaded yet. After the file
is uploaded, it is renamed to its original name.

6. Select Apply.

The System will then attempt to connect to the FTP server. The Web admin interface
displays messages about whether the System is able to connect to the FTP server
and the status of the connection.

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10.12.5 Testing the Automatic File Upload

Test the automatic file upload to ensure all settings are correct.

To test automatic file upload:

1. Confirm that the upload server is operating.

2. Start recording a broadcast.

3. Log into the Web admin interface.

4. Select Automatic File Upload, from the main menu.

5. Set the How Often setting to On file rotation.

6. Click the Reboot Now button in the Maintenance section from the main

menu. The currently recording broadcast file will be closed and saved.

7. The broadcast will then be uploaded to the configured remote path using

the configured client.

8. Check the server to confirm that the most recently saved video file has

been uploaded to it and it is in the proper path location on that server.

If the file is not uploaded, verify that the client configuration and Automatic File
Upload configuration settings are correct. Check the remote device’s root path, if
the remote path is incorrectly configured, the broadcast file will be uploaded to that
location.

Check the channel’s Files Archive page from the Web admin interface:

If the Remove after upload checkbox is selected, the uploaded broadcast file should
have been deleted from the Files Archive section. If the Mark file as downloaded

checkbox is selected, the uploaded broadcast file download icon should be .

11 Networking

11.1 Connecting Directly to the System

This section discusses how to directly connect to the System using the factory
default network settings. This method must be used if the network where the
System resides does not have a DHCP server, you have lost the correct network
settings or it is desired to simply connect a capture workstation and the System
without a router, by simply using a direct connect Ethernet cable.

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The next section discusses tools that can be used to discover the System that has
been plugged into the local network and been assigned an appropriate IP address
for the given network by a DHCP server. This network discovery also applies if the
device was assigned a static IP.

Either method, connecting directly or connecting using network discovery, is
required to access the System to allow for further configuring of the device.

11.1.1 Rescue Settings

The System comes with the following static address settings:

IP: 192.168.255.250

Netmask: 255.255.255.252

User Name: admin (no password)

For more information on the admin user, see the section Configuring Administrator
Access .

11.1.2 Connecting Directly to the System

Using the default network settings, perform the following steps:

1. Record the network settings of the workstation being used to connect to

the System so that they can be restored later if needed.

2. Temporarily change the network configuration on the workstation to the

following:

a. Static IP assignment
b. IP address: 192.168.255.249
c. Subnet mask: 255.255.255.252

3. Establish an Ethernet connection between the System and the workstation

by one of the following methods:

a. Connect the System’s Ethernet port to the same Ethernet

network as the workstation

b. Connect the System’s Ethernet port to an Ethernet network

switch and connect the workstation’s Ethernet to that same

switch.

c. Connect the System’s Ethernet port directly to the workstation’s

Ethernet port using either a regular or a crossover Ethernet cable.

4. Start a web browser on the workstation and browse to:

http://192.168.255.250/admin/

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5. Log in as the administrator user:

User Name: admin
Password:<return>

6. The System’s Web interface Admin opens. See the chapter, Web Admin

Interface, for more details on using the Web admin Interface to configure
the System.

7. Restore the previously save network configurations on the workstation.

11.2 Network Discovery of the System

Instead of connecting directly as described in the previous section, to the System,
the System can be discovered on the network and its IP address can be obtained.

You can easily access the System in the network using service discovery tools. Please
refer to Network Discovery of the System section.

When the System device is configured for DHCP and has been plugged into a
network with a DHCP server, the DHCP server automatically assigns an IP address to
the System relevant to the network. Determining the IP address assigned to the
System is required to access the System to allow for further configuring of the
device.

There are tools that will return the System’s IP address. Epiphan provides two such
tools and they are described in the following section.

Alternatively, contact the relevant network administrator to retrieve the System’s IP
address.

Regardless of the method used to obtain the System’s IP address, its assigned IP
address is required to allow for any further configuring.

11.2.1 Epiphan’s Network Discovery Utility

Epiphan’s Network Discovery Utility runs on a Windows based PC. It finds the
System device on the network and displays its assigned IP address. The Network
Discovery Utility can also be used to connect to the System Web admin interface
tool.

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11.2.1.1 To install Epiphan’s Network Discovery Utility Tool

1. Find the latest Network Discovery Utility on the website’s download page

(http://www.epiphan.com/downloads/).

2. Select Download Network Discovery Utility. Ensure to note the download

destination folder.

3. Run NetworkDiscovery.exe from the above noted download destination

folder.

4. Select Search to find the Epiphan devices connected to the network.

The Network Discovery Utility can only find the Epiphan devices on the same
network as the Windows PC that is running this utility.

11.2.2 Epiphan’s EpiphanTouch App for iPad, iPhone, iTouch

EpiphanTouch™ is a discovery and remote control application available as a free
download from iTunes and the App store.

EpiphanTouch finds, provides the IP address, and can be used as a remote control to
start and stop broadcastings and recordings on the System. It will list all Epiphan
devices including the System operating on the same network as the iPhone, iTouch,
or iPad that is running the EpiphanTouch application.

11.2.2.1 To install and use EpiphanTouch from iTunes:

1. Either follow the URL to go directly to the EpiphanTouch page in the App

store:http://itunes.apple.com/pk/app/epiphantouch/id424405619?mt=8#
or search for the EpiphanTouch application in the App Store using the
Search field.

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Figure 54 Search for EpiphanTouch in the App Store

2. Install the EpiphanTouch App on your iDevice.

3. The EpiphanTouch will discover all Epiphan devices. The IP addresses of all

devices will be displayed. Record the IP address corresponding to the
System you want to configure. If there is more than one Epiphan device
on the network, you can identify your System by the serial number
displayed.

4. To use EpiphanTouch’s remote control feature, select the desired System

and log into the device as the administrator user. See section The
Administrator User for more details about logging into the System.

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Figure 55 Log into the System as the Administrator

5. Start or stop video capturing and recording.

Networking

11.3 Setting IP Address

Changing the network configuration involves setting how the System receives an IP
address. IP addresses can be assigned statically or dynamically with the use of a
DHCP server. For network configuration changes to take effect, the System device
must be rebooted after making the changes, refer to the section Rebooting or
Restarting System.

If the IP address is changed, the System must be removed from the Network
Discovery Utility and then re-discovered by selecting Search.

Additionally, the System’s MAC address is displayed on the Network Configuration
page. Providing the MAC address to your network administrator may be helpful for
managing your network.

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11.3.1 Set the System to use a static IP address

1. Log into the Web admin interface.

2. Select Network from the main menu.

3. Select Use static address.

Enter an IP Address, Network Mask, Default Gateway, and DNS Server that
are valid for your network. Ensure that this gateway setting is the gateway
of your local LAN, i.e. the local router. Contact your network administrator
if you are not sure what information to use. The IP address, Network Mask,
Default Gateway, and DNS Server assigned must be compatible with your
network.

4. Select Apply to save these changes.

5. Select Maintenance.

6. Select Reboot Now.

7. It takes a few minutes for the System device to reboot.

8. After a few minutes log into the Web admin interface. Logging into the

Web admin interface can be done by:

a. Using a browser and browsing to the new IP address assigned to

the System.

Networking

b. Using the Network Discovery Utility, see section Logging into the

Web Admin Interface for more details.

9. Re-log into the Web admin interface using the administrator username and

password.

11.3.2 Set the System to use a DHCP server

By default, the System is configured to connect to a network using a DHCP server,
the DHCP server will automatically configure the network settings and assign a
relevant IP address to the System. This section describes how to re-enable DHCP
settings if they have been disabled.

1. Log into the Web admin interface.

2. Select Network from the main menu.

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3. Select Use DHCP.

4. The other fields can be left as is.

5. Select Apply to save these changes.

6. Select Maintenance.

7. Select Reboot Now. It takes a few minutes for the System device to reboot.

8. After a few minutes log into the Web admin interface. Logging into the

Web admin interface can be done by:

a. See the section Network Discovery of the System on how to obtain

the IP address for System

b. Using a browser and browsing to the new IP address assigned to

the System.

c. Using the Network Discovery Utility, see section Logging into the

Web Admin Interface for more details.

9. Re-log into the Web admin interface using the administrator username and

password.

The following diagram shows the network page from the Web admin interface and
enabling DHCP.

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Figure 56 Enabling DHCP

Networking

11.3.3 Performing Network Diagnostics

A tool in the Network section of the web interface combines the functionality of the

traceroute and ping programs in a single network diagnostic tool.

Traceroute is a computer network diagnostic tool for displaying the route or path

and measuring transit delays of packets across an Internet Protocol (IP) network.
Ping is a computer network administration utility used to test the reachability of a
host on an IP network and to measure the round-trip time for messages sent from
the originating host to a destination computer.

This tool investigates the network connection between the host that the System

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runs on and a user-specified destination host. After entering the URL or IP address,

click either ping or traceroute. If ping is clicked, the tool determines the reachability

of the user-specified host. If traceroute is clicked, the route and measures transit

delays of packets is displayed. As it does this, the tool displays statistics about each

machine.

Figure 57 Statistics displayed by the diagnostics tool after using the Ping utility

Figure 58 Statistics displayed by the diagnostics tool after using the Traceroute utility

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12 System Administration

12.1 Setting the Date and Time

The date and time can be set manually or Time synchronization can be enabled on
the System. Configuring how the date and time is managed on the System is done by
selecting Date and Time from the Web admin interface’s main menu.

Clicking Enable Time Synchronization on the Date and Time page, results in the date
and time being received from a public network time protocol (NTP) server. This is
done by having the System connect to the server over the Internet. NTP uses UDP
and port 123. The default NTP server is time.nrc.ca. This should be changed to a NTP
server that is recommended for your location. This information should be available
from your network administrator.

For more information about NTP, including a list of recommended NTP servers, refer
to the following webpage: The NTP Public Services Project.

To get the correct time from the NTP server, ensure that the correct Time Zone for
the location of the System is selected.

If the System device cannot connect to the Internet and there is an RDATE server on
the network, you can set time synchronization to use RDATE (as defined by RFC

868). Contact your network administrator for the address of the RDATE server and

enter the RDATE server IP address into the Server IP Address field.

In both cases, how often the date and time is updated can be configured. The Time
Update interval can be every 1, 6, 12, or 24 hours.

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Figure 59 Setting the Date and Time

Time Zone

Select the appropriate time zone

Enable time
synchronization

This parameter enables time synchronization with a NTP
or RDATE server

System Administration

The following table summarizes the configurable options for setting the date and
time.

Table 18 Date and Time Configurable Options

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Protocol

Select the time protocol

Server IP
Address

Enter the IP address of the NTP or RDATE server
Update interval

Specify the frequency of time synchronization

Set time
manually

This parameter enables manual time setting

Date (yyyy-mm­dd)

Specify the date
Time (hh:mm:ss)

Specify the time

RTC calibration:
(-31..+31).

This field allows RTC calibration, the slowing or speeding
the clock up to 10 sec/day. Negative numbers slow the
clock down up to 5 seconds a day and positive numbers
speed up the clock up to 5 seconds a day.

12.2 Configuring Administrator Access

Initial factory settings provide no password for the administrator user. For security
reasons, a password to control access to the administration functions should be
added.

The administrator user’s password can be added or changed at any time in the
Access Passwords section of the Web Admin interface.

If you lose or forget the admin password you can reset the device to its factory
default setting. See Restoring the System Default Factory Configuration in order to
reset the device to factory defaults.

12.2.1 To add or change the Administrator password

1. Log into the Web admin interface.

2. Select Access Passwords.

3. Enter the new password in the New administrator password field. The

password is case sensitive and can include up to 255 ASCII characters.

4. Repeat the password using the Retype administrator password field.

5. Select Apply. The Web admin interface will log off the current

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Figure 60 Adding or Changing the Administrator's Password

administrator user.

6. When prompted, re-log into the Web admin interface with the admin user

name and the new password.

12.2.2 Deleting the Administrator password

The administrator password can be deleted if it is not required. However, by
removing the administrator password, it makes it easier for unauthorized users to
change the System’s configuration.

1. Log into the Web admin interface

2. Select Access Passwords.

3. Select Apply leaving the administrator password fields blank.

4. When prompted, re-log in leaving the password field blank.

12.2.3 Delete the Viewer Password

The viewer password can be deleted if viewers are not required to enter a password
to access the broadcast.

1. Log into the Web admin interface.

2. Select Access Passwords. The password fields should be blank.

3. Select Apply without adding characters to the password fields. The password is

deleted.

12.3 Configuring Viewer Access

Controlling viewer access to a broadcast can be done in two different ways. The first
is to assign a password to the System’s viewer password and the second is to enable
IP Address based authentication. By default the viewer user does not have a
password to control access and no IP Address based authentication is enabled.

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Figure 61 Changing the Viewer Password

12.3.1 To add or change the viewer password

The section explains how to add or change the password associated with the viewer
user.
The viewer access password is the same for all viewers until it is changed. Any
viewer that knows the password will continue to have access until the password is
changed. It is good practice to change the password each time there is a change in
the users that should be authorized to access the broadcast. Please contact your
network security administrator with respect to password management required for
your applications.

Once a viewer password is configured, participants must obtain the current viewer
password in order to log in. The user name is always the same: viewer. It cannot be
changed. If the viewer password is changed during a broadcast, the broadcast is
interrupted and all viewers will be required to re-log in using the new viewer
password in order to continue receiving the broadcast. Depending on how the
viewer is receiving the broadcast, this will involve clicking the refresh button in the
viewer’s browser or clicking on the play button in the viewer’s media player.

1. Log into the Web admin interface.

2. Select Viewer Access.

3. Enter and repeat the new password. The password is case sensitive and can

include up to 255 ASCII characters.

4. Select Apply.

5. Distribute or communicate the viewer access password to authorized viewers

of the broadcast.

12.3.2 Configuring IP-based Authentication for Viewers

This function allows the option of providing access to the broadcast to a large
number of users without having each individual user log in with the viewer
username and password. This is done by configuring individual IP addresses or a

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range of IP addresses that are either granted access or denied access to the
broadcast. Once set up, users can access the broadcast just by clicking on a supplied
link. The administrator for the broadcast would continue to access the Web admin
interface using the administrator user credentials to access all features.

Figure 62 IP-based Authentication

If any addresses are specified in the Allow IP’s field, access to the broadcast will be
allowed only for these addresses.

If any addresses are specified in the Deny IP’s field, access to the broadcast will be
forbidden for these addresses and allowed for all other addresses.

The list of denied IP addresses has a higher priority over the list of allowed IP
addresses. An example of how this is implemented would be the following:

1. In the Deny IP’s field enter 172.20.1.20-172.20.1.30.

2. In the Allow IP’s field enter 172.20.1.22, 172.20.1.33.

Access to the broadcast will be forbidden for the entire subset of addresses -

172.20.1.20-30.

The set of users must have a fixed IP address or a range of IP addresses through
which they connect to the internet. Individual computers may have dynamic server­assigned addresses but as long as they use a gateway with a static address to access
the internet, this feature can be configured

IP authentication is primarily about convenience, rather than extra security. The
level of security is comparable with that of a password-based authentication. Bear in
mind that anyone who has access to a computer within the specified range will be
able to access the broadcast without having to provide log in credentials. Also it is
probably not possible to restrict access to a single computer since in most networks
a number of computers share a single gateway to the internet.

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Deny IP’s

Enter individual IP addresses separated by a comma or a range of IP
addresses that are denied access to the broadcast. To specify a range
of addresses, use a hyphen (-).

Example 1: 172.20.1.20, 172.20.1.32

Example 2: 172.20.1.1-100

Allow IP’s

Enter individual IP addresses separated by a comma or a subset of IP
addresses that are granted access to the broadcast. To specify a range
of addresses, use a hyphen (-).

The table below shows the fields used in configuring IP-based authentication for
Viewers.

12.3.3 Delete the Viewer Password

The viewer password can be deleted if viewers are not required to enter a password
to access the broadcast.

1. Log into the Web admin interface.

2. Select Viewer Access. The password fields should be blank.

3. Select Apply without adding characters to the password fields. The

password is deleted.

12.4 Upgrading the System Firmware

New firmware is released to fix known problems or to add new features. When
available, new firmware versions can be obtained from Epiphan Support.

Installing new firmware can take several minutes. Once a firmware upgrade is
started, the System cannot broadcast or record streams until the firmware upgrade
is complete.

Note that no passwords are set in the new firmware. However when you upgrade

the existing firmware, the administrator’s password is the same as the operator’s

password.

System Administration

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VGADVI Broadcaster Pro/VGADVI

Recorder Pro User Guide

12.4.1 Installing new firmware

Do not interrupt or power down the System device during the firmware update.

1. Log into the Web admin interface.

2. Select Firmware Upgrade from the main menu.

3. Click the Check for updates command. The system will indicate whether any

updates are available. If updates are available, select Browse and then select

the downloaded firmware file.

4. Select Apply. The firmware file is uploaded to the System. It then unpacks the

firmware file, verifies the contents and then upgrades the firmware.

5. To complete the firmware upgrade you must reboot the System. Refer to

Rebooting or Restarting System.

6. Log into the Web admin interface and confirm that the System is now running

the new firmware version by selecting Info from the main menu and by viewing
the firmware version.

Should the firmware update fail, restore to the default factory configuration. Refer
to Restoring the System Default Factory Configuration.

Figure 63 Firmware Upgrade

12.5 Maintenance Controls

From the Web admin interface’s main menu, select Maintenance to perform
operations such as restoring the factory configuration, and rebooting the System.