Troubleshooting RTMP Disconnection on PTZ Cameras

Overview

If your camera streams smoothly to YouTube or another RTMP platform but suddenly disconnects or stops transmitting after a while, this guide will help you identify the cause and apply effective solutions.

In most cases, these interruptions are caused by network instability, session timeouts, or configuration mismatches between the camera and the streaming platform. If you are unable to address the issue after following this guide please contact support. 

1. Confirm Camera and Platform Compatibility

Verify RTMPS usage
YouTube now requires RTMPS (secure RTMP) for live streaming.

Use the correct URL format:

rtmps://a.rtmp.youtube.com/live2

Using the older rtmp:// protocol may initially work but could disconnect as YouTube enforces secure connections.

Check firmware version
Ensure your BZBGEAR PTZ camera is running the latest firmware, as updates often improve:

• RTMP connection stability
• Encoding efficiency
• Reconnection performance
  
  

(Contact BZBGEAR Support or visit the product page to download the latest firmware.)

2. Use a Stable Network Connection

• Use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi for consistent bitrate delivery.
• Assign a static IP address to prevent DHCP renewal interruptions.
• If supported, configure IP address reservation (MAC binding) on your router or switch.
  
  

3. Check Stream Key and Session Settings

• If streaming to a scheduled YouTube event, the stream key may expire when the event ends.
• Use a persistent stream key for continuous or 24/7 broadcasts.
• Avoid reusing expired or temporary keys, as YouTube servers will reject or drop them after inactivity.
  
  

Path:
YouTube Studio → Stream Settings → Stream Key → Create Persistent Key

4. Optimize Encoder Settings on the Camera

Incorrect encoding settings can cause buffer overflow or instability during long sessions.
Set your camera’s streaming parameters within YouTube’s recommended range:

Tip:
If disconnections persist, lower the bitrate by 10–20% to reduce upload bandwidth pressure.

5. Address YouTube Session Timeouts

YouTube may terminate inactive streams after 60–90 minutes if no keyframes or heartbeat data are received.

Solutions:

• Ensure the camera is actively transmitting video (not frozen or paused).
• Avoid keeping idle or blank video scenes for extended periods.
• For 24/7 streaming setups, enable the camera’s auto-reboot feature to refresh connections periodically.

6. Prevent Overheating or Resource Saturation

Extended streaming can cause some camera processors to overheat or experience memory saturation.

Recommendations:

• Place the camera in a well-ventilated area.
• Reboot the camera every 12–24 hours for long-term streaming.
• If powered via PoE, ensure the switch or injector provides stable voltage and current.

Need Assistance?

If the issue persists after completing these steps, please gather the following information before contacting BZBGEAR Support:

• Camera model and firmware version
• Streaming platform and RTMP URL used
• Average uptime before disconnection
• Screenshot of the camera’s streaming configuration page