Hardware12 min read
Hardware Encoder Setup Guide
Configure hardware encoders for professional IRL streaming. Learn how to set up Belabox, LiveU Solo, IRLBox, and other portable encoders with your relay endpoint.
Why Use a Hardware Encoder?
Better Battery Life
Dedicated encoders don't drain your phone battery
Multi-SIM Bonding
Bond 4+ cellular connections for maximum reliability
HDMI Input
Use any camera with HDMI output for better quality
Belabox
Belabox
SRTLAOpen-source software for Orange Pi 5 Plus, Radxa Rock 5A/5B, and Jetson Nano. Supports multi-modem SRTLA bonding for reliable mobile streaming.
SRTLA BondingMulti-modemOpen Source4G/5G Support
Configuration
Server URL
srt.region.irl.acStream Port
5000Stream ID
live/stream/YOUR_KEYSetup Steps
- Access Belabox web interface (usually at 192.168.x.x)
- Navigate to Settings → Stream Configuration
- Enter the server URL and stream ID from your dashboard
- Set the port to 5000 for SRTLA
- Configure your modems in the Network section
- Start streaming
Use the IRLServer Belabox-compatible remote control to manage your Belabox from anywhere.
LiveU Solo Pro
LiveU Solo Pro
SRTProfessional portable encoder with reliable low-latency delivery. Supports SRT protocol.
SRTProfessional GradeBuilt-in BatteryEasy Setup
SRT Configuration
SRT URL
srt://srt.region.irl.ac:5000Stream ID
publish/live/YOUR_KEYLatency
2500ms (recommended)Setup Steps
- Log in to your LiveU Solo Portal
- Navigate to Destinations → Custom SRT
- Enter the SRT URL with your stream ID
- Set latency to 2500ms for optimal stability
- Save and assign to your unit
LiveU Solo Pro connects via SRT, which works with our SRTLA endpoints. You'll still get the benefits of our relay infrastructure.
LiveU (RTMP)
LiveU
RTMPStandard LiveU encoders using RTMP protocol for streaming to relay endpoints.
RTMPProfessionalReliableEasy Config
RTMP Configuration
Server URL
rtmp://rtmp.region.irl.ac/publishStream Key
YOUR_KEYSetup Steps
- Access LiveU Central portal
- Create a Custom RTMP destination
- Enter the server URL and stream key
- Assign to your encoder unit
IRLBox
IRLBox
SRT / RTMP / RISTPortable IRL streaming encoder supporting both SRT and RTMP protocols.
SRTRTMPRISTPortableMulti-modemBudget-friendly
SRT Configuration
Server URL
srt.region.irl.acPort
4001Stream ID
publish/live/YOUR_KEYLatency
2500ms (recommended)RTMP Configuration (Alternative)
Server URL
rtmp://rtmp.region.irl.ac/publishStream Key
YOUR_KEYSRTLA is recommended over RTMP for mobile streaming as it provides better reliability with connection bonding.
General Tips for Hardware Encoders
Latency Setting: Start with 2500ms latency for SRTLA/SRT. You can lower it to 2000ms for less delay if your connection is stable.
Bitrate: Most hardware encoders work well at 4000-6000 kbps for 1080p. Don't go too high - it wastes data and doesn't improve quality much.
Heat Management: Hardware encoders can get hot during extended streams. Ensure good ventilation in your backpack.
Power: Use a quality power bank with USB-PD or 12V output. Cheap power banks can cause encoder instability.
Encoder Comparison
| Encoder | Protocol | Bonding | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belabox | SRTLA | Yes (up to 8 modems) | $200-400 (DIY) |
| LiveU Solo | RTMP | With expensive LRT Subscription | $1,500+ |
| LiveU Solo Pro | SRT | With expensive LRT Subscription | $1,500+ |