Need help understanding Data Rate on ATEM Mini Pro

[RobPolonsky]

Hey everyone,

I’m somewhat new to streaming, but I consider myself pretty good when it comes to tech. I’ve been building a mobile rig, but when it comes to Data Rates, I’m still trying to wrap my head around what that means.

For example, I just did a test. When I output video from my BMPC4K, the Data Rate hovers around 4-6 mb/s and YouTube says my connection is excellent. When I cut to a still from my Media Library, the Data Rate drops to 1.1 and YouTube warns me about my bitrate (screenshot attached).

Am I doing something wrong? I’m using the GL iNet Travel Router (AR750S) and have my ATEM and Computer hardwired to the internet. I did an internet speed test on my computer and I’m getting 200 down / 20 up.

I assume Data Rate means the amount of data the ATEM is pumping to YouTube. But it worries me seeing that error on YouTube when I switch to something other than a camera feed. Am I over thinking this? Thanks for your help!

[tim_hughes]

Hi Rob, this is surely due to the high compression possible for the still image? Personally, I would not worry. Others here have much more experience though.

[aaronpk]

Yeah this is fine. The ATEM Mini uses variable bitrate encoding, so when the picture doesn’t change much (e.g. static graphics) then it can send the image at a much lower bitrate. Youtube doesn’t expect a variable bitrate, and also expects people will be mainly streaming camera video, so it throws up a warning that the bitrate is too low. It’s safe to ignore it though!

[RobPolonsky]

Awesome. Thanks, @aaronpk and @tim_hughes!