Introduction:
In this article, we will discuss how to connect OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) and Zoom. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on setting up the connection between these two popular software applications.
Step 1: Install OBS
First, you need to install OBS if you haven’t already done so. You can download it from obsproject.com. Once downloaded, follow the installation instructions provided by the software.
Step 2: Install Zoom
Next, you need to install Zoom if you haven’t already done so. You can download it from zoom.us. Once downloaded, follow the installation instructions provided by the software.
Step 3: Open OBS and Zoom
After installing both applications, open OBS and Zoom. In OBS, go to Settings and select Video. In Zoom, go to Preferences and select Video.
Step 4: Configure OBS Video Settings
In OBS, under the Video settings, you need to adjust the following options:
- Set the Base (Canvas) Resolution to your desired resolution. This will determine the size of your video output.
- Set the Output (Scaled) Resolution to match the Base Resolution you selected in the previous step.
- Under the Video tab, select a video encoder. We recommend using H.264 (x264) for its high-quality output and low CPU usage.
- Adjust the Output Format to MP4 if it’s not already selected. This will ensure compatibility with Zoom.
Step 5: Configure OBS Audio Settings
In OBS, under the Audio settings, you need to adjust the following options:
- Under the Mixer tab, select your audio device. This will be the source of your microphone or other audio input.
- Under the Output tab, select a suitable audio encoder. We recommend using AAC for its high-quality output and low CPU usage.
- Adjust the Output Format to MP4 if it’s not already selected. This will ensure compatibility with Zoom.
Step 6: Configure OBS Scenes and Sources
In OBS, create a new scene by clicking on the + icon in the Scenes box. Give it a name that represents your desired video output. Then, add a new source to the scene by clicking on the + icon in the Sources box.
- Select Video Capture Device as the source type and give it a name that represents your video input. Adjust the settings to match your desired video input, such as a webcam or capture card.
- If you want to add an additional audio source, repeat the previous step but select Audio Input Capture as the source type and adjust the settings accordingly.
Step 7: Configure Zoom Video Settings
In Zoom, under the Video settings, you need to adjust the following options:
- Under the My Video tab, select your video device. This will be the source of your webcam or other video input.
- Adjust the Resolution to match the Base Resolution you selected in OBS’s Video settings.
- Under the Advanced tab, select Optimize for Full-Screen Video. This will ensure that Zoom uses your full screen resolution for video output.
Step 8: Configure Zoom Audio Settings
In Zoom, under the Audio settings, you need to adjust the following options:
- Under the Microphone tab, select your audio device. This will be the source of your microphone or other audio input.
- Adjust the Audio Codec to AAC if it’s not already selected. This will ensure compatibility with OBS.
Step 9: Connect OBS and Zoom
Now that you have configured both applications, it’s time to connect them. In OBS, go to Settings and select Stream. Under the Service dropdown menu, select Custom Streaming Server (RTMP). Enter your Zoom meeting URL in the URL field. In Zoom, go to Settings and select In Meeting (Advanced). Under the Video tab, enable Allow use of computer for video.
Step 10: Start Streaming
Once you have connected OBS and Zoom, it’s time to start streaming. In OBS, go to the Stream settings and select your desired streaming service or custom RTMP server. Enter your stream key in the Stream Key field. Then, click on the Start Streaming button.
Conclusion:
By following these step-by-step instructions, you have successfully connected OBS and Zoom. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the necessary settings and configurations required to establish a connection between these two popular software applications. With this setup, you can now stream high-quality video and audio content directly from OBS into your Zoom meetings or webinars.