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Wirecast
by Telestream
by Telestream
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
We help make selecting a software for your business effortless, economical and efficient.
by Telestream
by Telestream
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
The typical implementation process for Wirecast software involves several steps, although the exact duration can vary based on the user's specific needs and technical expertise. Here is a general outline of the process:
1. Download and Installation: Users need to download the Wirecast software from the official website and install it on their Mac or Windows computer. This step is straightforward and usually takes a few minutes.
2. Initial Setup: After installation, users must configure the software according to their streaming requirements. This includes setting up the video and audio sources, configuring the streaming destination (e.g., YouTube Live, Facebook Live, etc.), and adjusting the output settings for optimal performance. This step can take anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the complexity of the setup.
3. Customization and Testing: Wirecast offers extensive customization options, allowing users to create a professional production studio on their laptop. Users can add overlays, transitions, and other visual elements to enhance their stream. It is crucial to test the setup to ensure everything works correctly. This phase can take several hours to a few days, depending on the level of customization and testing required.
4. Going Live: Once the setup and testing are complete, users can start live streaming. Wirecast provides tools to monitor the stream's performance and make real-time adjustments if necessary.
Overall, the implementation process for Wirecast can range from a few hours to a few days, depending on the user's familiarity with the software and the complexity of their streaming setup.
Yes, Wirecast offers extensive customization options to fit specific business needs. Here are some key ways the software can be customized:
Customizable User Interface
- The user interface can be customized by adjusting the layout, size, and positioning of various windows and controls to suit the user's preferences and workflow.
- Users can customize keyboard shortcuts for different actions and functions.
Branding and Overlays
- Users can add custom branding elements like logos, watermarks, bugs, and animated graphics overlays to their live streams.
- Wirecast provides built-in title templates that can be customized with text, images, and animations.
Multi-View Monitoring
- Users can configure up to 17 customizable multi-view windows to monitor different video sources, audio levels, and streaming outputs simultaneously.
Production Automation
- Wirecast allows users to create playlists with timed transitions between shots, enabling automated show playback.
- Users can set up hotkeys and keyboard shortcuts to trigger different actions like switching shots, starting/stopping recordings, etc.
Virtual Sets and Chroma Key
- Users can leverage Wirecast's built-in virtual sets or create their own custom 3D virtual environments.
- The chroma key functionality allows for customizable green/blue screen effects.
Audio Mixing and Multi-Track Recording
- The audio mixer can be customized with multiple audio tracks, allowing users to independently control levels, panning, and audio processing for each source.
- Users can route audio sources to discrete tracks for multi-track recording and post-production.
Wirecast software does not have explicit setup fees, but there are several additional costs associated with its use, including maintenance and support charges. Here are the key points:
1. Initial Purchase and Upgrades:
- The basic version of Wirecast (Studio) costs $599, while the Pro version costs $799.
- Upgrading from Wirecast 3 or 4 to Wirecast Pro 4 costs $546.
2. Support and Maintenance:
- Wirecast offers various support options, including phone support, FAQs, forums, and a knowledge base.
- An active Wirecast Access Plan is required to upgrade to the latest unlocked version of Wirecast for free.
3. Additional Features and Integrations:
- Wirecast integrates with applications like Twitter/X and Meta for Business, which may require additional subscriptions or fees depending on the services used.
- The HDV Option for Wirecast 4 costs $99, providing input support for HDV cameras.
4. Hardware and Bandwidth Requirements:
- Users need to ensure their hardware meets the minimum requirements, which may involve additional costs for upgrading systems to handle the software efficiently.
- Adequate upload bandwidth is necessary for streaming, and users may need to invest in higher internet speeds to meet these requirements.
5. Training and Customization:
- While Wirecast is designed to be user-friendly, businesses may incur costs for training staff or customizing the software to fit specific needs, although these costs are not explicitly listed.
Wirecast offers a variety of training and support options to help new users get started and become proficient with the software. Here are the key resources available:
Training Resources
1. Video Tutorials and Webinars:
- Wirecast provides a range of video demos, tutorials, and webinars that cover various aspects of using the software. These resources are designed to help users understand the basics and advanced features of Wirecast.
2. User Guides and Manuals:
- Detailed user guides and manuals are available for download. These documents provide step-by-step instructions on installation, activation, and using different features of Wirecast.
3. Online Courses:
- There are structured online courses and tutorials available, such as the "Wirecast: Getting Started" series, which helps users learn how to set up and stream their first project.
4. Knowledge Base:
- The Wirecast knowledge base contains articles and FAQs that address common questions and issues. This resource is useful for troubleshooting and learning about specific features.
Support Options
1. Telestream Support Portal:
- Users can contact Telestream through the new Support Portal for assistance. This portal provides access to support tickets, live chat, and other support resources.
2. Community Forums:
- Wirecast has community forums where users can ask questions, share experiences, and get advice from other Wirecast users and experts.
3. Email and Phone Support:
- Direct email and phone support are available for users who need personalized assistance. This is particularly useful for resolving technical issues that require expert intervention.
4. Support Plans:
- Wirecast offers support plans such as the Wirecast Access Plan, which provides ongoing support and access to the latest software updates. However, it is noted that support renewals for perpetual/lifetime licenses are no longer being sold.
5. Insider Access:
- For new users or those new to live production, the Insider Access support option gives direct access to professional Wirecast support technicians to resolve technical issues and provide guidance.
Practical Examples and Case Studies
- Wirecast showcases various case studies and examples of how different organizations use the software. These include churches, schools, and media programs, providing practical insights into how Wirecast can be integrated into different workflows.
Overall, Wirecast offers comprehensive training and support resources to ensure that new users can effectively learn and utilize the software for their live streaming and production needs.
According to Telestream's privacy policy , the company has implemented security measures to protect user data, although no data security measures can guarantee 100% security. Here are the key points about Telestream's data security measures:
- Telestream states that it has implemented reasonable physical, technical, and administrative security measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, use, modification, and disclosure.
- However, the policy clearly mentions that despite their efforts, no data security measures can guarantee complete security. Users are advised to take steps to protect against unauthorized access to their accounts, computers, and transmissions.
- The privacy policy does not provide specific details about the types of encryption, access controls, or other technical safeguards used to protect data.
- It simply states that Telestream takes reasonable precautions to protect personal information from loss, misuse, unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction.
- The policy does not mention any third-party audits, certifications, or compliance standards related to data security that Telestream adheres to.
So while Telestream claims to have security measures in place, the privacy policy lacks transparency about the specific controls implemented. It also clearly disclaims that no security can be 100% guaranteed, advising users to take their own precautions as well. Beyond this general statement, no further details are provided about Telestream's data protection practices.
Wirecast releases updates regularly, and these updates are managed through a structured process. Here are the key points regarding the frequency and management of updates:
Frequency of Updates
- Regular Releases: Wirecast has a history of releasing major updates and new versions periodically. For example, Wirecast 16 was released on May 24, 2024, and previous versions like Wirecast 14.1 and Wirecast 7.0 also included significant new features and improvements.
- Incremental Updates: In addition to major version releases, Wirecast also provides incremental updates that include bug fixes, performance improvements, and minor feature enhancements. These updates are typically released more frequently to address immediate issues and improve stability.
Management of Updates
- Automatic Update Checks: Users can configure Wirecast to check for software updates automatically. This can be done by selecting "File > Preferences > Software Update" and clicking "Check Now." Wirecast will then check for available updates without transmitting personal information to Telestream[13].
- Support Subscriptions: Users with active support subscriptions, such as the Wirecast Insider Access or Premium Access plans, receive free updates and upgrades for the duration of their subscription. This ensures that they have access to the latest features and improvements as soon as they are released.
- Manual Updates: Users can manually download and install updates from the Telestream website. This is particularly useful for those who prefer to control the update process or need to update multiple installations[13].
- Version History and Release Notes: Telestream provides detailed version histories and release notes for each update. These documents outline the new features, improvements, and bug fixes included in each release, helping users understand the changes and benefits of updating.
Example of Recent Updates
- Wirecast 16: Released on May 24, 2024, this version may be a paid upgrade from earlier versions and includes various new features and improvements.
- Wirecast 14.1: This version introduced several new features such as a new rendering engine, multi-viewer output system, multi-channel audio ingest, and more. It also included significant stability and reliability improvements.
Overall, Wirecast maintains a consistent update schedule, providing both major version releases and incremental updates to enhance the software's functionality and performance. Users can manage these updates through automatic checks, manual downloads, and support subscriptions to ensure they are always using the latest version of the software.
Wirecast's parent company Telestream does not provide detailed information about their data ownership and portability policies in their publicly available documentation or website. However, here are the relevant points I could find from their privacy policy :
Data Ownership:
- The privacy policy does not explicitly state who owns the data created or used within the Wirecast software. It focuses more on personal data collected through Telestream's websites and services.
Data Portability:
- The policy states that users in certain jurisdictions have the "Right to data portability: To the extent that we process your information (i) based on your consent or under a contract; and (ii) through automated means, you have the right to request that we provide you a copy of your information in a structured, commonly-used and machine-readable format."
- However, it does not provide any specifics on how this data portability right would apply to data created or used within Wirecast specifically.
- There are no details provided about transferring projects, recordings, or other data out of Wirecast to other platforms or services.
Wirecast offers flexible terms for scaling up or down to accommodate changing organizational needs. Here are the key points based on the provided sources:
Subscription Plans and Pricing
- Wirecast Studio: This version is designed for enhanced live production and streaming. It is priced at $24.92 per month for an annual subscription.
- Wirecast Pro: This version includes advanced features for live production and streaming, priced at $33.25 per month for an annual subscription.
Features and Flexibility
- Unlimited Inputs and Destinations: Both Wirecast Studio and Pro versions support unlimited inputs and destinations, allowing organizations to scale their streaming capabilities as needed.
- Simultaneous Video Conferencing: Wirecast Pro supports up to 7 guests via a built-in video conferencing solution, which can be crucial for larger productions or events.
- Multi-Channel Audio and Video: The Pro version offers multi-channel audio ingest, ISO records of individual sources, and up to 17 slots for multiviewer output, providing extensive scalability for complex productions.
Hardware and Software Compatibility
- Capture Cards and Devices: Wirecast is compatible with various capture cards, devices, and camera inputs, including USB, Capture Card, NDI, Wirecast Go, and Webstream IP sources. This compatibility ensures that organizations can scale their hardware setup as needed.
- GPU-Accelerated Encoding: The software supports GPU-accelerated encoding, which helps manage resource usage efficiently, allowing for smoother scaling of production quality and complexity.
User-Friendly Interface
- Ease of Use: Wirecast's user-friendly platform makes it accessible for both novice and advanced users, allowing organizations to scale their operations without requiring extensive technical expertise.
Support and Updates
- Support Plans: Wirecast offers support plans such as the Wirecast Insider Access or Premium Access, which provide ongoing support and access to the latest software updates. This ensures that organizations can scale their operations with the latest features and improvements.
- Regular Updates: Wirecast releases regular updates, including major version releases and incremental updates, to enhance functionality and performance. This allows organizations to scale their streaming capabilities with the latest technology.
Practical Examples
- Case Studies: Wirecast showcases various case studies and examples of how different organizations use the software, providing practical insights into how Wirecast can be scaled to meet different needs.
The terms and conditions for contract renewal and cancellation for Wirecast, as provided by Telestream, are detailed in various documents. Here are the key points:
Contract Renewal
1. Automatic Renewal:
- Monthly subscriptions automatically renew unless the user provides written notice of cancellation.
- Telestream will contact users within 30 days of the expiration of their support subscription to notify them about the renewal[10].
2. Support Subscription Renewal:
- Each purchase of Wirecast includes an Access Support subscription for one year from the date of purchase. Users can renew this subscription annually[12].
- Users can upgrade from an Access Support subscription to a Premium Support subscription at any time for an additional fee. Premium Support subscriptions can also be renewed annually[12].
3. Notification and Renewal Process:
- Wirecast will prompt users to renew their support subscription before it expires. If the subscription is not renewed before expiration, users may re-subscribe at any time for an additional fee[12].
Contract Cancellation
1. Cancellation of Subscriptions:
- Users may cancel any subscription at any time by notifying Telestream in writing.
- For paid accounts, Telestream may terminate the agreement on sixty (60) days' notice given by email to the address associated with the user's Telestream Cloud account.
- Telestream may terminate the agreement immediately upon notice for any breach of the agreement by the user.
2. Refund Policy:
- Purchases are non-refundable, and subscriptions will auto-renew unless canceled in writing.
3. Late Payments and Termination:
- Late payment not cured within ten (10) days following written notice shall be grounds for termination of the agreement by Telestream.
- Any portion of any fee or other amount payable that is not paid when due will accrue interest at one and one-half percent (1.5%) per month or the maximum rate permitted by applicable law, whichever is less, from the due date until paid.
4. Audit Rights:
- Telestream reserves the right to audit the user's use of the licensed materials and inspect records related to any copies of the software made by the user during the term and for three years after expiration or termination of the agreement.
5. Technical Support and Maintenance:
- Telestream is under no obligation to maintain or support the software unless provided in a separate agreement. They have no obligation to furnish further assistance, technical support, documentation, software updates, upgrades, or information unless specified otherwise.
Practical Examples and Additional Terms
- Service Credits: If uptime for any calendar month falls below 99.9%, Telestream will issue service credits as a remedy for downtime, provided the user contacts Telestream within ten (10) days of becoming eligible for the credits.
- Termination for Convenience: For free accounts, Telestream may terminate the agreement for convenience at any time.
Wirecast software, developed by Telestream, adheres to several compliance standards and guidelines. Here are the key points based on the provided sources:
Compliance Standards
1. EMC Compliance:
- Wirecast Gear, a hardware solution that includes Wirecast software, complies with the Essential Requirements of the EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) Directive. This is indicated by the marking symbol on the product, which signifies compliance with EMC standards.
2. Export Restrictions:
- Telestream complies with all export and re-export restrictions and regulations of the U.S. Commerce Department and other U.S. agencies and authorities. This includes ensuring that the software is not shipped, exported, re-exported, diverted, or otherwise disposed of in violation of these regulations.
3. MPEG-4 Systems Standard:
- Wirecast is licensed under the MPEG-4 Systems Patent Portfolio License for encoding in compliance with the MPEG-4 Systems Standard. This ensures that the software adheres to the technical standards required for MPEG-4 encoding.
Privacy and Data Protection
1. Privacy Policy:
- Telestream has a privacy policy in place that outlines how personal data is collected, used, and protected. This includes compliance with data protection regulations applicable in various jurisdictions.
Additional Compliance and Best Practices
1. Hardware and Software Requirements:
- Wirecast provides detailed technical specifications and best practices to ensure optimal performance and compliance with hardware and software requirements. This includes recommendations for CPU, GPU, bandwidth, and storage to meet the demands of high-quality live streaming and recording.
2. Third-Party Software and Licenses:
- Wirecast includes third-party software and technology, such as NDI® software licensed from NewTek, Inc. The use of this software is subject to specific restrictions and compliance requirements outlined in the End User License Agreement (EULA).
By Telestream