OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is a free and open-source software for video recording and live streaming. It is widely used by gamers, content creators, and professionals for its flexibility and customization options. One of the most useful features of OBS is the ability to use plugins to extend its functionality. In this article, we will discuss how to install the NDI (Network Device Interface) plugin for OBS, which allows you to capture and stream video and audio over a local network.
What is NDI?
NDI is a technology developed by NewTek that enables video and audio to be transmitted over a local network. It uses a high-quality, low-latency codec to ensure that the video and audio are transmitted with minimal delay and loss of quality. NDI is widely used in the broadcasting industry and is supported by many software and hardware products.
Why use NDI with OBS?
Using NDI with OBS allows you to capture and stream video and audio from other devices on your local network, such as cameras, smartphones, and other computers. This can be useful in a variety of scenarios, such as:
- Using a smartphone as a camera for your live stream
- Capturing video and audio from a remote computer
- Using multiple cameras or sources for your live stream
Installing the NDI Plugin for OBS
Before you can use the NDI plugin with OBS, you need to install it on your computer. Here are the steps to install the NDI plugin for OBS:
- Go to the NDI plugin for OBS GitHub page.
- Download the latest release of the plugin for your operating system (Windows or macOS).
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the plugin.
- Once the installation is complete, open OBS.
- Click on the “+” icon in the “Sources” section of the OBS main window.
- Select “NDI Source” from the list of available sources.
- Enter a name for the source and click “OK”.
- Select the NDI source you want to use from the list of available sources.
- Click “OK” to add the NDI source to your OBS scene.
Using NDI with OBS
Once you have installed the NDI plugin for OBS, you can use it to capture and stream video and audio from other devices on your local network. Here are the steps to use NDI with OBS:
- Make sure that the device you want to capture or stream from is connected to the same local network as your computer.
- Install the NDI Tools on the device you want to capture or stream from.
- Open the NDI Scan Converter tool on the device you want to capture or stream from.
- Select the screen or application you want to capture or stream.
- Click “Start” to begin capturing or streaming.
- Open OBS on your computer.
- Click on the “+” icon in the “Sources” section of the OBS main window.
- Select “NDI Source” from the list of available sources.
- Enter a name for the source and click “OK”.
- Select the NDI source you want to use from the list of available sources.
- Click “OK” to add the NDI source to your OBS scene.
- Configure the NDI source settings as needed, such as resolution and frame rate.
- Click “Start Streaming” to begin streaming your NDI source.
Conclusion
The NDI plugin for OBS is a powerful tool that allows you to capture and stream video and audio over a local network. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily install and use the NDI plugin with OBS to enhance your live streaming and video recording capabilities. Whether you are a gamer, content creator, or professional, NDI and OBS can help you take your content to the next level.