Using Virtual Camera Software for Event Live Streaming

A smooth and high quality live webinar session is one of the critical elements for a successful event. If the event organizer choose to use virtual camera software for their webinar live streaming, it is important for you to check if your virtual camera (Why doesn't the webcam work?), microphone or headphones works or functions properly before the actual event day

Recommendations:

1. Use OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) or vMix as the virtual camera software

OBS virtual camera: https://obsproject.com/forum/resources/obs-virtualcam.949/

vMix virtual camera: https://www.vmix.com/knowledgebase/article.aspx/235/how-to-send-a-virtual-camera-output-to-third-party-apps-and-web-browsers

2. Do a self test on the virtual camera software to confirm if the virtual camera functions properly on browser. Here's a website for a self test: https://webcammictest.com/

3. Conduct rehearsal on the webinar session to ensure everything runs smoothly

Here's the 1-2-3 step in checking the functionality of the virtual camera (webcam), microphone and headset:

Step 1: Install the virtual camera software in your computer (if you are yet to do it)

• Configure the setting to achieve your desired result

Step 2: Running a webcam/Mic/Headphones Test

• Use https://webcammictest.com/ to test if everything is fine
• The website is compatible with the most commonly used software such as OBS, VMix, Xplit Cam etc.

Step 3 Test webcam/ Mic/Headphones

• Go to the Testing Page
• Under Settings menu on the right, you can choose the webcam, mic or headphones/speaker you would like to test
• Click Start Recording at the bottom to start the testing. This will show how the camera and sound from your PC actually works
• You should be able  to see your video from the camera on your screen. If yes, congratulations your webcam functions properly
• If the test failed, please check the virtual camera settings and repeat steps 2 and 3 until it functions properly in the testing

Why doesn't the webcam work?

Most common reasons why  the webcam doesn't work:

• Camera is not connected: If using a separate camera, check if it is properly connected or plugged in
• The device is disabled in settings: The device may be working but it can be disabled by software in your operating system
• Camera is used by another application: If an application uses your camera, it can be unavailable for another applications
• Access to the device is denied: You have to provide access to your camera in the browser to continue working with it