How to Encode and Decode RTSP Streams with the BG-STREAM-DE

This article explains how to decode RTSP streams to HDMI and encode HDMI video into an RTSP stream using the BG-STREAM-DE. If you have any issues with getting set up, please contact BZBGEAR Support. 

Network Requirements

• All devices must be on the same subnet & Gateway
• DHCP is enabled by default on the BG-STREAM-DE

Accessing the Web Interface

1. Power on the BG-STREAM-DE and connect it to the network
2. Identify the unit’s IP address using:
   • HDMI output display
   • Network scanning software
   • Router DHCP client list
3. Enter the IP address into a web browser

Default Login

• Username: admin
• Password: 0000

RTSP Decode: Displaying an RTSP Stream on HDMI

Use Case: Decode an RTSP stream from an IP camera or encoder and display it on a local HDMI monitor.

Steps

1. Log into the web interface
2. Navigate to Source Selection
3. Select IP Stream
4. Enter the RTSP stream URL
   Example format:

rtsp://<ip_address>:<port>/<stream>

1. Click Apply
2. The RTSP stream will appear on the HDMI output

Notes

• Switching between RTSP sources only requires replacing the RTSP URL
• No reboot is required when changing RTSP sources
• Audio will follow the stream unless overridden by Line In

RTSP Encode: Creating an RTSP Stream from HDMI or SDI

Use Case: Encode a local HDMI or SDI video source into an RTSP stream for distribution across the network.

Steps

1. Navigate to Source Selection
2. Select HDMI or SDI as the active source
3. Click Apply
   If HDMI is enabled for the first time, a reboot may be required
4. Navigate to Streaming
5. Enable RTSP Streaming
6. Configure encoder settings as needed:
   • Resolution
   • Frame rate
   • Bitrate
   • Codec (H.264 or H.265)
7. Click Apply

RTSP Stream URL

Once enabled, the system generates an RTSP URL. Copy this URL to:

• Media players (e.g., VLC)
• Software decoders
• Another BG-STREAM-DE

Verifying the RTSP Stream

1. Open a media player such as VLC
2. Select Open Network Stream
3. Paste the RTSP URL provided by the BG-STREAM-DE
4. Start playback

If video appears, the RTSP encoder is operating correctly.

Audio Configuration for RTSP

Audio Source Selection

Navigate to Audio Source and choose:

• Embedded Audio (HDMI/SDI)
• Line In (external audio source)

Click Apply after making changes.

Monitor Output Settings (RTSP Decode)

To ensure proper HDMI output when decoding RTSP:

1. Navigate to Monitor Settings
2. Enable Auto Output Resolution
3. Click Apply
4. Reboot when prompted

This ensures the decoded RTSP stream matches the connected display’s capabilities.

RTSP Troubleshooting

No Video on HDMI Output

• Confirm IP Stream is selected as the source
• Verify RTSP URL format and credentials
• Ensure the stream is active using a PC-based player

RTSP Stream Not Accessible

• Confirm streaming is enabled under Streaming
• Verify encoder source is set to HDMI or SDI
• Ensure encoder and client are on the same subnet

Audio Missing

• Confirm correct audio source selection
• Check that audio is present in the RTSP stream
• Verify HDMI output volume under Monitor Settings