By Full Compass LiveConnect Your Residents With Loved Ones Through “Virtual Visits”
Because many assisted living communities and nursing homes have restricted visits for the foreseeable future, providing an alternative way for residents to stay in touch with their loved ones has become more important than ever. Keeping families updated with regular Facebook Live posts from administrators and staff is a welcome step, as is having residents talk directly to their friends and family.
All of this is possible, and surprisingly easy to do, with live video streamingDefinition:
A method of sending a continuous flow of digital content over IP (Internet Protocol) networks, and often, tailors itself to the user's receiving capability. . We’ll go over the basics, from a simple stream with a smartphone, to dedicatedDefinition:
Designed or used to do a specific task or set of tasks. equipment that lets you offer a space for any resident to sit down and chat “face to face” with a loved one on the other end. We know learning new technology can be intimidating, but livestreaming is not that difficult. For example, Houses of Worship have embraced livestreaming as the best way to stay in touch with their congregations during this trying time. Even small churches have been able to get their services online, quickly, easily, and affordably. We know of their successes, because our friendly and knowledgeable Full Compass staff has been helping them every step of the way. And we’re here for the assisted living community, too—just call 800-356-5844, and we’ll answer any questions you have.
Let’s start with a method that’s so simple, anyone can do it.
THE EASIEST, MOST BASIC WAY TO STREAM
Using Facebook Live on your phone or tablet
- Tap on your smartphone or tablet’s Facebook app. If you don’t have the app, it’s a free downloadDefinition:
To receive data at one computer from another source (computer, electronic mail service, the cloud, etc.) from Apple’s App Store for iPhone, or the Google Play store for Android. After downloading, open the app, decide on a user name and password, and you’re ready to go. - Find the “What’s on your mind?” box and select “Live” from the options below it.
- Type a description of your livestream.
- Tap “Start Live Video” when you’re ready and use your phone as a video camera.
- Tap “Finish” when you’re done.
That’s all you need to do to perform a basic livestream and help keep residents connected. However, you can also improve the quality, with a steadier image and clearer audio, almost as easily. We’ve assembled a few products and bundles below, with options for every budget and for communities of every size.
TURN YOUR PHONE INTO A SELF-CONTAINED STREAMING KIT
Shure MV88+VIDEOKIT
Shure designed this kit specifically for quick and easy livestreaming—it’s the ideal combination of convenience and rock-solid Shure gearDefinition:
Musical or performance equipment.. The MV-88 Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone is a substantial upgrade over your smartphone’s internal mic and will do a better job of picking up residents’ voices for viewers on the other end. What’s more, the Manfrotto PIXI Tripod will keep the picture steady. The kit includes cables that are compatibleDefinition:
Capable of operating with a particular selection of hardware or software. with both Android (USB-C) and Apple iOSDefinition:
Apple proprietary operating system, primarily for mobile devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch). Current Apple TVs run on tvOS, which is similar to, and based on, iOS. (Lightning connectorDefinition:
Apple's connector and bus standard for portable devices like mobile phones and tablets.) smartphones. Just snap in your phone and start streaming.
ADD A QUALITY WEBCAM TO A LAPTOP OR DESKTOP COMPUTER
Most laptops have a built-in camera, but they’re chosen for price instead of quality, and are notorious for being restricted to unflattering angles. And, many desktop computers don’t come with a camera at all. These five USBDefinition:
(Universal Serial Bus) A standard, bi-directional serial connection between computers and peripheral devices. cameras are easy-to-use, affordable, and captureDefinition:
To acquire audio and/or video, and convert it to a file. HD (High Definition) video.
Logitech C270 HD Web Camera
Featuring automatic light correction, this Logitech camera produces sharp video even with low lighting. The standout audio feature is a built-in mic that uses noise reductionDefinition:
A technique for reducing noise in recording or transmission systems. Single-ended noise reduction systems use filtering to isolate the noise, and expand this signal downward using downward expansion. See Expansion and Downward Expansion. Double-ended systems use symmetrical compression and expansion. See Compansion. technology to help minimize distracting background noises.
Logitech C920S HD Pro Webcam
With a true HD picture (1080pDefinition:
1920×1080-pixel resolution with progressive scan, also known as Full HD. 1080p can sometimes also be informally referred to as 2K. widescreen at 30 frames per second) and an auto-focusDefinition:
1. (stage lighting) To aim and adjust a lighting instrument. 2. (photography) To adjust a camera for the sharpest image. function to take the guesswork out of obtaining the best focus, the C920S HD Pro is a highly advanced camera for the price.
Logitech BCC950 Conference Cam
Adjustability sets this camera and mic combo apart from the rest. The long neck and panDefinition:
Horizontal pivot of a camera or light, opposite of Tilt, or the placement of a sound element in stereo or surround sound., zoomDefinition:
Continuously variable enlargement or reduction of an image., and tiltDefinition:
The up-down pivot of a light or camera. Opposite of Pan. See PTZ. functionality let you find the perfect angle for anyone recording a livestream. The package also includes a remoteDefinition:
A broadcast from the field, not from the studio. A Remote Control. control, which allows the video’s subject to set up the shot—this is perfect for administrators making a video by themselves.
Marshall Electronics 2.5MP HD POV Miniature USB Camera
When a high-quality image is paramount, this camera offers exceptional definition—1920 x 1080p HD—while the frame rateDefinition:
The rate at which video frames play back. See: FPS. of 60 frames per second gives a smooth, fluid feel to the video. To simplify setup, this camera’s internal sensors adapt to your computer’s specs to find the best resolutionDefinition:
1. (video) The measure of pixels horizontally and vertically. For example, 1920x1080 is considered HD, or high-definition. 2. (audio) The combined bit depth and sample rate of a digital audio signal. for the stream.
GoPro HERO7 Black Action Camera
If durability and reliability are your main concerns, the GoPro HERO7 is a popular, proven choice. It’s built to withstand drops, and still record high-quality video for years to come. Image stabilization makes it look like you’re using a tripod, even when you’re not. Another great feature, hands-free voice controls, let you start and stop the recording while you’re sitting in front of the camera.
WHAT YOU NEED IF YOU ALREADY HAVE A CAMERA
Encoders take the video signal from your camera and put a higher-quality version onto the web. Sure, all you need is a smartphone and Facebook for a basic stream. But if you want to use a standalone camera, or put this video on another livestreaming platform, you’ll either need to dedicate a computer or more simply, use an encoderDefinition:
A device that converts an ordinary signal into a specifically modified signal in order to accomplish a specific purpose. Example: A rotary encoder on a digital signal processor converts control rotation into digital data. box to do all the processing. Here are three, easy-to-set up encoders that produce a broadcast-quality stream.
Datavideo NVS-33 Video Streaming Encoder and MP4 Recorder
The Datavideo NVS-33 has enough functionality for professional use but is designed so that anyone can operate it. You need a tablet or computer for the initial setup, but after that, you can start or stop a stream by pressing a single button.
Matrox Monarch HD Professional Video Streaming and Recording Device
This is one of our best-selling encoders, because it’s the optimum balance of usability and performance. It allows you to stream and save a master recording at the same time, so even after the stream is over, you’ll have a copy to give to friends or family.
AJA HELO Professional HD/SD Recorder and Streamer
With higher-end cameras, you’ll want an encoder that can take advantage of the improved video quality. The Helo supports 3G-SDIDefinition:
(Serial Digital Interface) 3-gps uncompressed digital standard over a 75 Ohm coax cable, using a BNC connector. and HDMIDefinition:
HDMI (High-Definition Media Interface): A standard for connecting video, audio, security, and control signals. and can produce a stream in 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second for a smooth, detailed picture.
HIGH-QUALITY CAMERAS
PTZ Cameras (Pan, Tilt, and Zoom) are a popular choice because they perform well in any number of environments, are easy to install and use, and are packed full of the latest technology while nonetheless remaining affordable.
Panasonic AW-UE4
For the highest resolution commonly available, and the most life-like streaming experience, this 4KDefinition:
3840x2160-pixel video resolution. This is also often called Ultra HD or UHD. Also resolution of 4096x2160, which is popular in the film industry. PTZDefinition:
(Pan Tilt Zoom) A camera that can rotate, tilt, and zoom mechanically. Camera from Panasonic captures all the details. Its wide-angle lens and tight zoom make it a good choice for both large and small spaces.
Vaddio ConferenceSHOT 10 HD USB PTZ Camera
Featuring lightning-fast autofocus, smooth pans and tilts, high-quality imaging, and exceptional color reproduction, this camera helps make anyone look like a professional videographer.
CAMERA AND JOYSTICK CONTROLLER BUNDLES
These final two bundles are for adding some more options to your stream. Let’s say you have a whole group in for the chat, or you want to show the viewer at home some more of the surrounding environment. A PTZ Controller gives you broadcast-quality zooms, pans, and focus. Both of these packages plugDefinition:
A connector, normally male and attached to a cable. right into your computer, with no encoder needed.
Marshall Electronics PTZ Camera and Controller Bundle
Full of features like brightness adjustments and manual focus, this controller adds production qualities to your stream that are above and beyond basic setups. And the flexible, easy-to-use full HD camera performs well in any number of environments.
This package includes:
- 2.12MP Generation 2 USB 3.0 PTZ Camera With 20x Zoom
- Compact PTZ Joystick Camera Controller
PTZOptics Camera and Controller Video Bundle
Capable of recording rich video in low light environments on account of its wide dynamic rangeDefinition:
1. Range in dB between a device's noise floor and its maximum available headroom. 2. The difference between the maximum and minimum volume levels that occur in a musical performance., this PTZOptics camera was designed to be the ideal combination of advanced technology and ease of use. The controller is intuitive as well, so inexperienced operators can direct a professional-looking stream after a short training session.
This package includes:
- 2.12MP Generation 2 USB 3.0 PTZ Camera With 20x Zoom
- Third Generation IP Joystick Keyboard, Power over Ethernet (PoE) Capable
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
When we can’t visit in person, video chatting can be the next best thing. Sure, life will return to normal, but that may take a while—and visits to assisted-living communities could still be discouraged for quite some time. Live video streaming provides a lifeline of comfort and support to your residents and their families and will remain so for family members that live at a distance, even after the current pandemic is just a memory.
As you can see, there are many options for budgets and communities of all sizes. But you don’t have to venture into livestreaming alone, because you have a team of Full Compass Professionals just a phone call away. If you have questions about any of these products, or require a custom solution for your specific needs, call us at 800-356-5844—we’re here to help.
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