Firebridge User Guide

BitFire Engine

FireBridge is a BitFire’s professional broadcast contribution service that will connect your video and audio signal to the BitFire network. The FireBridge service runs in your web browser and requires no additional service.

• We recommend Chrome (build 81 or higher) or Firefox (build 86 or higher) for the best experience. Safari (iOS version 13 or higher) will also work on Apple devices.
• FireBridge works best on a laptop or desktop (less than 5 years old) using the native or external webcam and audio peripherals, although mobile devices may also be used.
• If possible, use a device that is hard wired to your internet connection. Otherwise, use a device that is in a location with a strong Wi-Fi connection.

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Using FireBridge

FireBridge is a BitFire’s professional broadcast contribution service that will connect your video and audio signal to the BitFire network. The FireBridge service runs in your web browser and requires no additional service.

1. Click on your dedicated FireBridge link - it will open directly in your web browser.
2. Click the green “Start” button to connect

3. When prompted, allow/approve use of your camera and microphone.

4. When connected, you should see your camera feed at the top of the page.
   • In most use cases, you will see another video window with the feed from the show or the other participating guests.

5. Once connected, you will be able to hear the production and technical team.
   • The production/technical team will be audio only, you will not see them on the camera
6. When your session is complete, press “Disconnect” on the bottom menu button, You may also simply close your browser window, and click “Leave” when prompted to confirm you are leaving the page.

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Additional FireBridge Settings/Options

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Main Menu Buttons

• Menu: Press the 3-line icon on the left to open the audio, video, and keyboard shortcuts menu
• Pin Names: Always displays the name for each camera feed
• Disconnect: Disconnects your current FireBridge session and refreshes the browser window and FireBridge connection.
• Mute All: Mutes all video feeds in the FireBridge link
• Mute Microphone: Mutes your device’s microphone
• Publish (Producer option): Toggles your camera feed off or on

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Video/Audio Settings

• To adjust the video or audio settings on your device, click on the 3-line menu icon in the bottom left and select the “Settings” tab on the top left side of the screen.

• Click the buttons under “Video Sources” or “Audio Sources” to select or change a source.
  • Note: Only microphone audio is controlled through the FireBridge. Speaker/return audio control is controlled directly on your device through the “Sounds/Audio” menus.

• At the bottom of the main menu, you will see a list of Keyboard Shortcuts with an option to enable or disable them.
  • Note: Some shortcuts are only enabled in a producer view (KP control shortcuts)

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Interview Preparation Tips

• Find a quiet location, preferably in a room that isn’t too large or hollow.
• The space should have soft, indirect lighting in front of you  while avoiding windows or any bridge background behind you.
• Place the computer on a stable table or desk. Prop up with books or othe robjects to raise the camera to eye level.
• Frame the shot so that you are in the center of the camera at the eye-level rather than looking down
• Remove bright or distracting objects from the background of your shot.
• Look directly into the cmaera rather than at the return signal screen. It may help to put a sticker next to the camera lense as a reminder.