Render videos for synchronization
BrightSign media players are widely known and used for their ability to synchronize multiple screens. Many of our customers use the players for various types of synchronization. The most popular application is undoubtedly synchronized playback of multiple videos, a so-called "synchro-playout". However, often the same problem arises when programming the application: the intended videos do not run cleanly in sync, there are jerks or distortions. These errors can be easily avoided with the correct procedure. In the following, we will show how to deal with videos on BrightSign in conjunction with a sync and what to consider.
General guidelines for videos on BrightSign
When using videos on BrightSign, there are some basic rules that need to be followed. We would not necessarily call the players "tolerant" in this regard, if a format specification is not followed, the player simply does not show a picture. However, BrightSign has comprehensive documentation on which formats are supported by the devices. We can especially recommend the support article on video and codec.
In this one receives a detailed overview, which must be considered with the rendering.
The core problem: The bit rate
The render settings create the right basis, but the problem often arises in the second step: The bit rate of the video, which stands for the amount of processed data per second, is, according to experience, mainly responsible for how cleanly a synchro playout runs. When we check the videos of problematic sync playouts, we usually see that the bitrate is simply too high. Again, BrightSign provides a corresponding default: the bitrate should be a maximum of 25Mbps.
Rendering tools do not keep bitrate
So now you set your rendering tool to e.g. 25 Mbps with constant bitrate (CBR) and render your video. Nevertheless, the error appears again. Before you put your player or PC up for auction on Ebay out of desperation, there is one "little thing" to keep in mind: Modern rendering programs usually do not keep your bitrate. An example:
The video is rendered with CBR 25 from Premiere Pro
Still, there are peaks in the video that exceed 25 Mbps!
These peaks cause the player to stall at certain points, especially if the peaks exceed the maximum bitrate.
The solution: The Bitrate Viewer
So how can you maintain the correct bitrate? With the free Bitrate viewer you can check the bitrate of a video. This way you can control your rendering tool.
If you detect peaks in the bitrate viewer that exceed the maximum permissible values, you can lower the bitrate in the rendering until the peaks are below the maximum value of 25 Mbps. As soon as the values including peaks are adhered to, the videos run smoothly and synchronously.
The solution in this case would be to render the video with CBR 15, for example, so that the peaks are lower.
Need assistance with your project?
As Distributor Plus, we are also happy to support you with your projects and provide you with a lot of expertise in addition to the right hardware. You have planned a project and need comprehensive support in planning or implementation? Our team will be happy to advise you on our range of hardware, software and services so that together we can find the ideal solution for your customers.
