Lifestream Backpack Example

Channel:

Michael Gerry

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1,920

Published on January 1, 2022 7:06:54 AM ● Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrZVtsiUS1s

Category:

Guide

Duration: 15:41

1,679 views

52

This is the the original backpack and configuration that I used for livestreaming everything that I did for a year straight in the Michael Gerry Live Stream project (which can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/c/MichaelGerryLiveStream )

I created this video to show you how to configure a lifestream backpack on your own. You may use different components or a different bag, but the information in this video may still be helpful to you, conceptually.

Here’s the book I wrote on lifestreaming:
www.michaelgerry.com/lifestream


One note: make sure to plug the LiveU Solo into the “12 v” port on the batteries, because that’s the proper one for charging it.

Also, whenever I say “elbow bracket” I mean “elbow adapter”

Also, also, here’s an unlisted video with a few more tips on the configuration (in case you’re serious about creating your own lifestream backpack):
https://youtu.be/C5GI1jUt2y8


Here are the components in the video and information about them

Camera – the Sony FDR-X3000 is a reliable, durable, compact action camera with good image stabilization and a wide angle lens

Encoder – the LiveU Solo HDMI is a reliable, durable, compact encoder that can bond multiple internet connections into one stronger signal

Power Source – MAXOAK 50,000mAh batteries are durable, reliable, and each capable of powering the 2021 mobile rig for 12 hours

Internet Connection – Netgear Nighthawk M1s and assorted USB modems are portable and provide sufficient cellular signal connection
Currently, the best option for modems is UnlimitedIRL, and it’s tricky to navigate to the page which offers them; so you might wanna just skip to this link to see their choices:
https://unlimitedirl.paywhirl.com/widget/cc6af8da-a963-44cb-a0c3-b293323cea3c
The modem space is constantly shifting. Just make sure that you get “truly unlimited data” with whatever modems you get, because lifestreaming will eat through a traditional 40gb data plan in a day or two

Cables – durable versions of the following:
HDMI to micro HDMI (6ft)
USB A to Micro USB (6ft)
12 v male to male 2.1 mm - for charging the LiveU Solo (2ft)
USB A to USB C (3ft) - these may come with your modems already!
Ethernet cable (2ft)
HDMI 90 degree elbow adapters
USB elbow extension adapters (8 in)

Backpack – the “Dakine Heli Pack 12L” is subtle, durable, has great pockets for components and accessories, has chest and waist straps for securing the bag while being worn, and is the perfect form factor for this configuration.
That specific 12L model was discontinued, so you’d have to buy it used, but it looks like there’s a 10L replacement which may, potentially, offer similar results

Shoulder Mount – this is the shoulder mount I like the best, but you can find other ones for cheaper and experiment so wee what you like:
https://amzn.to/3eCPGuz

Gaffers Tape – better than duct tape for taping components together or in place. Smaller width rolls, like 1/2 in or 1/4 in, can be good for precision taping, but you can always just rip wides ones to creates smaller strips.

For a serious lifestream endeavor, I also recommend having some extra batteries for your action camera and modems
For the Sony FDR-X3000, the batteries are “NP-BX1”; some people prefer to stick with the manufacturer batteries, but I bought generic and they worked fine for me
For the nighthawk modems, you want the “W-10a” battery

For something to attach your configuration to (like the grill grate), just use what you’ve got around the house. A piece of cardboard (cut to size, with holes for cables and rubber bands) is fine to start out with. Then, as you refine your configuration, you could decide what sort of object you might want to attach things to. I’ve used the traditional “cable organizer cocoons”, but I find the modems have a tendency to overheat in that configuration in warm weather.

The name of the game with ALL of this stuff, though, is experimentation and personalization. Iteration and experience will guide you to the best configuration for your lifestreaming or just livestreaming needs. And, that configuration will continue to evolve over time, likely, as long as you continually seek to improve it. Components will change, but the concepts will stay the stay for a while, probably. Research to make sure that the components recommended here are still top of the line (like they are today), and always be willing to try something new and add knowledge to this space of “lifestreaming” information.


Here’s a streamer, for example, who’s pioneering a totally different approach to a livestreaming backpack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXKYQ9-CkE8&t=1s
Here’s his website with more information on his setup: https://spreeezy.com
P.S. I’ve talked to him about whether he thinks his equipment would work for “lifestreaming” and he thinks it’s possible. You could be the first to test it!