Skip to main content

How to Stream Live to YouTube via RTMP from Your PTZOptics G3 Camera

April 16, 2025​

Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP) was originally developed by Macromedia for streaming audio, video, and data over the Internet using a Flash player and server. PTZOptics cameras use RTMP to stream directly to websites.

In this example, we’ll stream to YouTube Live from a third-generation PTZoptics camera. If you encounter any issues setting up your RTMP stream, please contact support.

IF YOU HAVE A G2 CAMERA ( SDI-G2, ND-G2, USB-G2, or any of the Fixed box cams) PLEASE USE THE ARTICLE HERE.

Step 1: Connecting the Camera​

To stream directly to YouTube , the camera must be connected via Ethernet to a network with internet access. This is typically a router from your ISP or a network switch connected to that router.

Once connected, the camera will receive an IP address from the router. You can then access the camera’s web interface by entering PTZOptics.local in a web browser.

Step 2: Make sure you have the latest version of the camera's firmware, which can be found HERE .

Step 3: Accessing the Camera's Streaming Settings​

  1. Log into the camera's browser interface .

  2. Navigate to “Video Config” .

  3. Click on the “Streaming Settings” tab.

Step 4: Setting Up Live Streaming on YouTube

  1. Log in to YouTube and click your profile picture in the top right corner.

  2. Select YouTube Studio from the dropdown menu.

  3. In YouTube Studio, click the Go Live icon in the top right corner. (seen below)

  4. This will take you to the Streaming Settings page. (seen below)

Step 4: Configuring the Stream URL

  1. Copy the "Stream URL" from Facebook and paste it into the “Stream URL” under “RTMP(S) Stream 1” on the camera

  2. Copy the “ Stream Key ” from YouTube and paste it into the “Stream Key” field on the camera.

    • (Note: The example key shown is not valid)

  3. Set “Enable Stream” to “On” below the stream key.

  4. Click “Apply.”

Once completed, a video preview should appear on YouTube (this may take up to 30 seconds), and your video will now be live-streamed on YouTube .

Sidenotes:

  • YouTube is quite flexible with the frame rates and resolutions it accepts, so most camera settings should work. For the best streaming settings, please take a look at [this article].

  • You can adjust these settings in the “Audio & Video” section of the camera’s web interface.

  • YouTube may prompt you to add a title and description for your stream.

  • You may also be asked if your content is intended for kids. Only select this option if your content is specifically aimed at children. If your video is meant for all ages and not exclusively for kids, selecting this option could result in its removal.

Support can be reached M-F 8AM-6PM EST.