Fortunately, there is another way. With YoloBox Extreme NDI support, you can bring phones, tablets, and even a computer into your production over the network.
In a recent video, Frank from YoloLiv shows a fully wireless multicam setup in his studio. In fact, the only HDMI cable in use goes from the YoloBox to a display.
Below, we walk through his setup, the steps to add NDI sources, and the limits to know before you go live.
1. Why Go Wireless with YoloBox Extreme NDI
NDI is a technology that sends video over a local network. As a result, a device on the same network can act as a camera source without a video cable.
For Frank, that means freedom. He can mount an iPad in a corner, hold an iPhone as a vlogging camera, and capture his computer screen. Meanwhile, none of these sources needs an HDMI connection.
In addition, his audio runs wirelessly. So the desk stays clean, and he can move cameras around without rewiring.
That said, a wireless setup depends on your network. We cover that in section 6.
2. The Wireless Sources in Frank’s Studio
First, here is how Frank builds his cable-free production:
| Source | Device | Role in the show |
|---|---|---|
| Camera 1 | iPad (mounted) | Behind-the-scenes wide shot |
| Camera 2 | iPhone | Handheld vlogging camera |
| Camera 3 | Second iPad | Another camera angle |
| Camera 4 | Small older iPad | Side camera |
| Camera 5 | Computer with OBS | Screen capture through an OBS plug-in |
| Camera 6 | Another YoloBox | Available, but not used in this video |
Interestingly, even an old iPad can still serve as a useful side angle. In other words, devices you already own can become part of your multicam setup.
Note that the video does not name the camera app he uses on each phone or tablet. So check that your chosen app can send an NDI signal before you plan your angles.
3. Before You Start: Use the Same Network
Before adding any source, make sure every device is on the same network as your YoloBox. Otherwise, the NDI sources will not appear in the list.
Next, check the NDI setting on the YoloBox. In the video, Frank turns on NDI from the Settings page before adding sources.
Then open the camera or NDI app on each phone, tablet, and computer. That way, each device is ready to be found when you search for sources.
4. How to Add YoloBox Extreme NDI Sources
Once your devices are on the network, adding them takes only a few taps:
- First, tap Add Video Source.
- Next, choose NDI.
- Then tap Add NDI Sources.
- After that, select the cameras you want from the list.
- Finally, tap Done.
All NDI cameras on the same network will show up in the list. So you can pick your iPhone, each iPad, and your computer in one step.
After you tap Done, the new sources appear on the YoloBox screen. From there, you can switch between them just like HDMI cameras.
5. Know the NDI Source Limits
However, there is a limit to how many NDI sources you can add at once. YoloBox Extreme supports up to six NDI inputs, and the video shows them as NDI|HX sources.
Therefore, if you want six wireless cameras, make sure each one sends an NDI|HX signal. Many phone and tablet NDI apps use this format, but check the settings in the app you choose.
In addition, YoloBox Extreme has eight HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs. So if you need a wired camera later, you still have plenty of physical inputs available.
Also, keep in mind that you can still add other source types. For example, Frank adds a PDF source alongside his wireless cameras.
6. Using YoloBox Features with Wireless Sources
Because NDI sources work like any other input, you keep all the YoloBox software features. For instance, Frank uses:
- Layouts, which he can build in a few taps
- Picture-in-picture, which suits teaching and product demos
- PDF and image sources, such as slides about NDI
- Computer screen capture, which comes in through OBS
Consequently, a wireless setup does not mean a simpler show. You can still combine a camera shot, a computer screen, and slides in one layout.
For example, if you teach software, you could place the screen capture full-size. Then add your iPhone camera as a small picture-in-picture window.
7. Keeping a Wireless Multicam Stream Stable
Frank reports that the setup is very stable, as long as the network is good. In other words, bandwidth is the key factor.
So before a longer stream, run through these checks:
- Connect every device to the same network.
- Make sure the network has enough bandwidth for all sources.
- Keep phones and tablets charged or plugged in.
- Run a test and watch each source for drops or delays.
- Keep a backup plan in case one device disconnects.
Similarly, test at the time of day you plan to stream. Network traffic can change, and a quick test helps you catch problems early.
Getting Started with YoloBox Extreme NDI
All in all, YoloBox Extreme NDI support makes a cable-free multicam studio possible. Frank’s setup shows that phones, iPads, and a computer can work together as one production.
To build a similar setup, follow these steps:
- First, choose the phones, tablets, or computers you want to use.
- Next, install an NDI-capable camera app or plug-in on each one.
- Then connect every device to the same network as the YoloBox.
- After that, add the sources from Add Video Source > NDI.
- Also, stay within the limit of six NDI|HX sources.
- Finally, test the network and every angle before going live.
Above all, a strong network is what keeps a wireless show running smoothly.
To see the full setup in action, watch the video on the YoloLiv Tech YouTube channel.
For more on the device, see the YoloBox Extreme page. You can also browse the YoloLiv blog or explore our case studies. In addition, the YoloLiv Help Center offers product guidance.
172 total views, 83 views today
