Overview
Real-Time Streaming Protocol "RTSP" is a standard method used by network cameras and encoders to stream live audio and video over IP. Iris uses RTSP as one of its primary input methods for IP-enabled cameras and devices. You don’t need to be an engineer and you’ll be equipped to:
Understand what RTSP is and how it works
Find and use your camera’s RTSP stream URL
Add RTSP inputs to Iris
Troubleshoot connection issues
Optimize settings in both Iris and your camera firmware
What Is RTSP?
RTSP acts like a “network remote control” for media servers. Rather than carrying video itself, it negotiates how media (via RTP/RTP packets) is sent from a source (like a camera) to a client (like Iris).
Key characteristics:
Operates on TCP port 554 by default
Supports commands like PLAY, PAUSE, DESCRIBE, and SETUP to manage streams
Common in surveillance or IP camera setups where low latency is required
Relies on RTP/RTCP for actual media delivery
Iris Automatically Detects RTSP Streams via ONVIF
You may not need to read any further than this! Iris automatically detects RTSP Streams via ONVIF on your network when you open your Source Discovery window when adding sources. You will only need to continue past this point of the KBA if you are having trouble getting your RTSP enabled camera to show up on the Source Discovery workflow.
Step-by-Step Manual RTSP Setup in Iris
1. Find Your RTSP URL
Check your camera’s documentation or web UI. Common formats include:
rtsp://<username>:<password>@<ip_address>:554/stream1
rtsp://<username>:<password>@<ip>/live/0/main
You may discover these within your manufacturer's interface or ONVIF URL list.
2. Manually Add an RTSP Source in Iris
Open the Source Tray in Iris
Click the (+) Add Source button
Choose Video > Add via URL
Enter your RTSP URL (include credentials if required)
Click Add and wait for the video tile to appear
Possible Blockers and Troubleshooting
Common issues that can block RTSP ingestion in Iris:
Incorrect URL, port, or credentials
Firewall or NAT blocking port 554
Camera not sending audio/video via RTSP
Unsupported codecs by device or Iris
Network latency or packet loss causing stream freezes
Firmware not configured for RTSP or using proprietary output
Troubleshooting Tips
Test the stream in a tool like VLC
Use static IP addresses instead of DHCP
Avoid Wi-Fi when possible
Check manufacturer logs or firmware settings
Tips and Common Use Cases
Enable RTSP authorization for security
Choose encoding H.264 in camera or in Iris Advanced Settings
Ideal for low-latency IP-based ingestion
Common use cases: PTZ cameras, encoders, computer HDMI outputs, playback decks
Workflow Examples
Example 1: Integrating a PTZ IP Camera via Manual RTSP
Enable RTSP in the camera’s web UI
Obtain the RTSP URL: rtsp://user:pass@192.168.1.100:554/live
Add it to Iris via Add Source by Manually input RTSP URL
Confirm settings in Advanced Settings > Video
Monitor quality in the Iris Connection tab
Example 2: Setting Up a Remote RTSP Feed via WAN
Set up port forwarding for TCP 554 on your router
Use a public IP or DDNS in the RTSP URL
Add to Iris as a source
Monitor bandwidth and frame rate
FAQs
Q1: Can I use RTSP if my camera only supports H.264?
Yes. Iris supports H.264 via RTSP.
Q2: Why is my RTSP freezing or choppy?
Likely bandwidth or network issues. Test in VLC to confirm.
Q3: Can Iris pause or rewind RTSP streams?
No. RTSP playback control is not supported, only live feed ingest.
Q4: Is RTSP secure?
No. Use strong passwords, enable authentication, or secure the network.
RTSP is a powerful, low-latency standard for live video ingest in IP-based systems. Within Iris, RTSP provides a reliable way to bring in video from cameras, encoders, and streaming sources, especially when paired with ONVIF discovery or remote bridge deployment. With a little setup and awareness, even non-engineering users can confidently connect and manage RTSP streams in Iris.