How can I detect issues in my live stream performance?
To ensure the highest quality of service, we have developed a specialized stress-test video designed to push streaming limits. This tool allows you to identify bottlenecks in bandwidth, hardware decoding, and network stability.
Video Analysis Elements
Element | Purpose | What it Detects | Recommended Solution |
Visual Noise (1) | High-entropy data that is difficult to compress. | Bandwidth saturation. If the image pixelates too much or "blocks," the bitrate is too low for the network. | Increase available bandwidth or optimize encoder settings. |
Color Gradients | Testing color depth and compression artifacts. | Banding. Smooth transitions should not show "steps" or visible lines. | Check display drivers and ensure proper bit-depth processing. |
Test Pattern | Calibration of alignment and color accuracy. | Distortion. Ensures the video is not being stretched or discolored during transit. | Verify player scaling settings and monitor calibration. |
Frame Counter | Precise tracking of every single frame delivered. | Frame drops. If numbers skip (e.g., jumping from 14 to 16), frames are being lost. | Check CPU/GPU usage; the device may be struggling to decode. |
Constant Motion | Forcing the encoder to refresh the entire image. | Stuttering. Detects if the motion is fluid or if there is "judder." | Match the display refresh rate (Hz) with the video frame rate (fps). |
Audio Sync Pulse | Syncing a visual flash with a short "beep" sound. | A/V Desync. If the beep occurs before or after the flash, audio and video are out of sync. | Adjust buffer settings or check for processing delays in the audio hardware. |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- If you see "Stuttering" during motion: This usually indicates a synchronization issue between the source and the display. Ensure your hardware acceleration is enabled in your application settings.
- If the Frame Counter is inconsistent: You are likely experiencing Network Jitter. Even if average speed is good, inconsistent packet delivery causes these skips. We recommend testing on a wired (Ethernet) connection.
- If the Audio "Beep" does not match the "00" Frame: This indicates a latency mismatch between the elementary streams. High-latency network environments or heavy software processing can cause the audio to drift. Try reducing the "Audio Buffer Size" in your playback device settings.
- If the image becomes blurry during Noise segments: Your network is likely throttling the connection. High-detail "noise" requires a stable, high-bitrate path.
How to Download the Video
To perform your own local or network tests, follow these steps to download the source file:
- Click on the following link: https://qcnl.tv/p/OPjqK-ImJt3v6jni44gnCA
- Once the player opens, locate the gear icon (settings) in the bottom-right corner.
- Click the icon and select the Download option.
Important Technical Note: Pro-Res Format
The original video is encoded in Apple Pro-Res (1080p @ 30fps). This format is designed to prioritize maximum visual quality for professional testing, which results in a very high bitrate and a large file size.
- Compatibility: If your computer is outdated or does not support Pro-Res, you may experience playback lag that is not related to the network, but to your hardware's inability to decode the file.
- Solution: If the file is too heavy for your system, we recommend compressing it to a lighter format (such as H.264). You can use the free, open-source software Handbrake to easily convert the video.
We hope this tool helps you optimize your streaming setup. If you have any questions regarding the results of your test or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our support team. We are here to help.