Can I Use a Hotspot with Resi?

Using cellular data to create an access point for Resi’s encoder is one way you can encode content. Resi’s encoders are able to connect to Android and other devices, using your cellular data plan as a network connection.  

Due to the instability of cellular data, Resi recommends using a hardwired connection via ethernet whenever encoding. 

If you plan to encode off of a hotspot, test to make sure your encoder can connect to your device. Most customers have had success with Android and other devices’ hotspots, however in some cases a device may not connect. Apple devices do not connect to Resi encoders.

Resi recommends making sure you have either an unlimited or high amount of data in your cellular plan to use a hotspot. Some carriers limit bandwidth speeds after a set amount of data used even though their plan is unlimited. In most cases, encoding from a hotspot will use a lot of bandwidth. 

Connect Your Encoder to a Hotspot

First, make sure your device has its hotspot turned on. To do so on Android devices:

1. Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & tethering.
2. Click Wi-Fi hotspot.
3. Toggle on Use Wi-Fi hotspot. 

Then, connect your encoder to power if you haven’t already. Finally, connect your device to the encoder via USB cable. Your encoder should be then able to use your cellular data as a network connection. 

Resi recommends testing your network connection in the exact position and time you plan to encode from. If you don’t, the network connection may not be indicative of actual performance due to interference and strength of signal due to structures around you. If a particular location isn’t providing a good signal, test in different spots.

What Can I Do to Boost My Chances of Success?

Using a hotspot to encode content will be limited by network congestion, interference, signal strength, and how many people are using their phones nearby where you’re trying to encode. Here are three tips to improve chances of your content streaming from a hotspot:

• Lower the bandwidth of your stream. For example, stream in 720p instead of 1080p. Learn more
• Use a lower bitrate per video channel. For example, use 2 mbps instead of 4 or 5. Lowering the bitrate per channel helps users with lower bandwidth access your stream while increasing the time it takes to encode content. 
• Increase stream delay on the web channel you’re using for your stream. For example, instead of 1 minute 30 seconds, increase it to 10 minutes. Learn more