Performing a live production with TriCaster Now requires careful planning to ensure you have an adequate credit to cover your usage.

These guidelines can help you with estimating required credits for your live production, based on a sample workflow.

Workflow Description

As an example, we consider a common live production scenario using TriCaster Now.

  • TriCaster configuration: A TriCaster Now instance with eight video inputs and two video outputs, set to HD video quality using the H.264 codec.

  • Distribution: Live streaming distribution using to two different video Content Delivery Network (CDN) endpoints.

  • NICE DCV: Two screen monitors running NICE DCV for remote control and monitoring.

  • Multiview Composition: Downloading of one stream with a multiview composition that includes video feed inputs and outputs for monitoring.

Factors to Consider

To estimate required credits, consider:

  1. Setup and rehearsal time: Calculate the time required for setting up your live production, including the configuration of your TriCaster Now instance, testing equipment, and rehearsing the show.

  2. Expected show time: Determine the duration of your live show, including any pre-show and post-show segments.

  3. Post-live show activities: Estimate post-live show activities, such as downloading media assets, archiving and any additional post-production tasks.

Estimating Credit Usage

Based on the sample workflow and factors, you can typically expect to use approximately three credits per hour.

To ensure you have an adequate margins, the three credit estimate contain some contingency (10-20%). This helps cover unexpected usage spikes or last-minute changes. 

Recommendations

Here are some recommendations for eliminating potential risks.

  1. Early setup: Avoid setting up your live production too close to the start time. Set up well in advance to ensure everything is running smoothly.

  2. Offline mode: If possible after setup, consider going Offline (avoiding Archiving) and then going back Online before the live broadcast, so minimizing wait times.

  3. GPU machine availability: Be aware of potential scarcity in GPU machine availability, especially during peak times.

Note: The above estimation is based on the sample workflow. Actual credit usage will differ, depending on your specific setup. It is advisable to keep a close eye on your credit balance during the live production and have additional credits available if needed.