Sony Support

Article ID : 00269532 / Last Modified : 11/12/2024Print

How to use your Alpha or DSC camera to livestream with the USB streaming function

    Guided Support is available!
    You can use our fun interactive tool for help with this topic -- OR -- continue with this article.

    The USB streaming feature is the easiest way to live stream, is available on select Alpha and DSC cameras, and offers enhanced live-stream video and audio capabilities.

    Watch the video of your choice or skip to the steps for instructions.

    ILCE-7M4

    ZV-E10

    Setup USB live-streaming

    Note: Steps may vary depending on your camera.

    1. Set the camera to a movie recording mode and set the desired exposure, focus, etc., to apply to the live-streamed video.
    2. Depending on your camera, activate USB Streaming:
      • Select MENU → Camera Settings2 → USB Streaming.
      • Select MENU → Shooting → USB Streaming → select settings for resolution/frame rate and movie recording.
      • Select MENU → Network → Streaming → USB Streaming → select settings for resolution/frame rate and movie recording.
    3. Connect the camera to a computer or other device with the USB cable.

      Note: You will need the supplied USB cable or a compatible equivalent if your camera doesn't have a supplied cable.

    4. Start streaming from your streaming or web-conferencing service and adjust video and audio settings as needed.

      Notes:

      • During USB streaming, power is supplied to the camera from the computer. If you want to conserve computer power, set the USB Power Supply to Off on the camera.
      • If USB Power Supply is set to Off and power is supplied from an adapter or a USB Power Delivery device, you must have a sufficiently charged battery in the camera.
    5. Depending on your camera, do one of the following to exit USB streaming and return the camera to movie mode:
      • Press the MODE button.
      • Press the center of the control wheel.
      • Turn off the power to the camera.
      • Disconnect the USB cable.

    Review the Livestreaming video and audio (USB Streaming) section of your camera's Help Guide for additional details.

    Troubleshooting tips

    • If the camera's power is turned on while the USB cable is connected, then USB streaming will not activate. Disconnect the USB cable, activate USB streaming, and then reconnect the cable.
    • If the PC Remote Function is grayed out, then set Smartphone Connect to OFF and try again.
    • If USB Streaming is grayed out, set the camera to MOVIE mode and try again.
    • If you assign USB Streaming to a Custom Key, you can activate live streaming with one button. Refer to your Help Guide for details.
    • If USB streaming is not available on your camera, consider using these alternative live streaming options: