In Webcast Operator I get the error code: 3001 - message: Unsupported manifest format

Problem

Whenever I log into Webcast Operator to a Webcast event, I get "the error code: 3001 - message: Unsupported manifest format". In the HLS preview player I see a black screen with "Unsupported manifest format" error message, and the RTMP Steam Status shows a red box with "inactive" in it.

Solution

This error occurs when you are not sending any streams to the corresponding streaming server. Ensure that you are correctly streaming on your live-encoder software. In this guide, we will use OBS as example.

 - Step 1 - Check the RTMP URL 

• Go to your Webcast Manager.
• Open the relevant Webcast Event.
• Go to "Languages" tab.
• Open the language(s) for which you cannot see any stream.
• Copy the RTMP URL to Notepad.

 - Step 2 - Check the configuration in your broadcaster software

This guide refers to the use of OBS as example of a live-encoder software. The procedure is similar with other software but may differ slightly.

• Open your OBS (if still not open).
• Go to "Settings" (Einstellung).

• On the left menu, select "Stream".
• Paste the RTMP URL in the "Server" (or "stream-URL" depending on the software you are using) field until the slash before the WebcastId (this ID comprises 16 characters).
• Paste the last part of the URL (webcastId_LanguageCode) in stream key (Streamschlüssel) field.
• Click on OK.

• Start the stream. If you were already streaming, you may end the streaming and start it again.
• Wait for a confirmation from the live-encoder software. This is a green square in OBS.

 - Step 3 - Check the Webcast Operator

• Refresh the HLS preview player and RTMP status overview by clicking on the corresponding "refresh" symbols (you can also also refresh the browser page).

• In the HLS preview player, start the video.
• Now in the player, you should see the video of the stream (note that there is a delay of around 20 seconds between your current stream and what it is shown in the HLS Preview/Consumer).
• In the RTMP Stream Status Box, under "Summary", you should see a green box with "Active" in it.
• Now you are ready to switch the status of the webcast to live.