Set up Custom RTMP on Teradek (VidiU / Wave / Prism / Serv)
This guide shows how to configure RTMP/RTMPS streaming on Teradek devices to send a stream to a custom RTMP server (CDN or private server). Menu labels vary by model and firmware, but the core fields are almost always the same: Server URL and Stream Key (sometimes called “Stream” or “Stream Name”).
1) Requirements & needed details
From your provider (or your RTMP server), gather:
- Server URL / Ingest URL (e.g.
rtmp://stream.yourdomain.tld/live) - Stream Key / Stream Name (e.g.
channel1orchannel1?token=ABC123) - Optional Username/Password (only if required)
- If required: RTMPS (URL starting with
rtmps://)
Your Stream Key is like a password: anyone who has it can stream to your channel.
2) How to map URL and Key (general rule)
Server URL (or RTMP URL): rtmp(s)://HOST[:PORT]/APP
Stream Key / Stream : STREAM_KEY (or STREAM_KEY?token=...)
Examples
Example 1
Server URL : rtmp://stream.yourdomain.tld/live
Stream Key : channel1
Example 2 (non-standard port)
Server URL : rtmp://stream.yourdomain.tld:1936/live
Stream Key : channel1
3) Method 1 — Teradek VidiU (VidiU / VidiU Pro / VidiU Go): Web UI ? RTMP
On VidiU models, RTMP is commonly configured from the device Web UI (via local IP) or the mobile app. Below is the straightforward browser-based approach.
3.1 Log in to the VidiU Web UI
- Connect the VidiU to your network (Ethernet or Wi?Fi).
- Find the device IP address (Network menu on the device display).
- Open a browser and enter the IP (e.g.
http://192.168.1.18). - Click Settings.
3.2 Open Broadcast and set RTMP (Manual/RTMP)
- Under Settings, open Broadcast.
- Set Mode to Manual or RTMP/RTMPS (depends on firmware).
- Enter:
- RTMP Server URL = your Server URL
- Stream (or Stream Key/Name) = your Stream Key
3.3 Save and go live
- Click Apply to save.
- Return to the main screen and press Go Live / Start (label varies).
- Verify in your provider dashboard/player that the stream is online.
4) Method 2 — Teradek Wave / Prism / Serv: RTMP(S) destination
On Teradek Wave/Prism/Serv (and devices using a “Destination” workflow), the logic is similar: choose an RTMP(S) destination and fill in Server URL and Stream Key.
4.1 Create/select an RTMP(S) destination
- Open Streaming / Destinations (or equivalent menu).
- Select RTMP or RTMPS as the destination type.
- Enter Server URL and Stream Key (and credentials if required).
- Save and press Go Live / Start Streaming.
If your provider supplies a backup ingest, some devices let you enter it in a Backup URL field. It’s optional, but can help with failover.
5) Recommended settings (compatibility & stability)
For maximum RTMP compatibility, this is a strong starting point:
| Setting | Recommendation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Video codec | H.264 | Best RTMP compatibility. |
| Rate control | CBR (constant bitrate) | More stable for RTMP ingest. |
| Keyframe / GOP | 2 seconds | Commonly required/recommended by services. |
| Audio | AAC 128–192 kbps (48 kHz) | 160 kbps is a good balance. |
| Resolution/FPS | 720p30 or 1080p30 | Choose based on available upload. |
Keep total bitrate (video+audio) within 60–70% of real measured upload to avoid saturation.
6) Troubleshooting
Can’t connect (OFF / error / missing server url)
- Check Server URL and Stream Key: no spaces, no extra characters.
- Ensure the URL includes the correct path/app (e.g.
/live) as provided. - Network/firewall: RTMP often uses TCP 1935. Corporate networks may block it.
- If your provider requires RTMPS, use the
rtmps://endpoint (notrtmp://).
Choppy stream / buffering
- Lower bitrate or switch to 720p.
- Prefer Ethernet and stop competing uploads (backups/cloud sync).
- If available: enable Adaptive Bitrate or increase buffer (model-dependent).
Audio OK, video black
- Verify the required H.264 profile (Baseline/Main/High) for your player/service.
- Check GOP/keyframe; try 2s and CBR.
7) FAQ
Does the Stream Key change?
It depends on the platform: some services rotate keys per event/session. If in doubt, copy the latest key from your provider dashboard.
Can I use a port other than 1935?
Yes: if your provider uses a different port, include it in the Server URL (e.g. rtmp://host:1936/live).
Do I need username/password?
Only if your RTMP server requires authentication. If your provider does not supply them, leave the fields blank.
References: Teradek — What is RTMP? • Teradek User Guide — Streaming (Serv) • Ant Media Docs — Publish RTMP using Teradek
