Knowledge Base / TROUBLESHOOTING
SHOUTcast broadcast keeps disconnecting
Work through these checks if your live stream drops out during a set.
Reviewed · Follow the instructions supplied with your own rental.
Before you start
Watch the encoder status when the problem happens and note the time, exact error and whether the audio meters also stop. Distinguish an encoder drop from a listener’s playback interruption.
Steps
- Check whether your broadcaster actually disconnects, or whether only a listener’s playback stops. Note the time and exact error.
- Watch the audio meters during the problem. In Rocket Broadcaster, an audio-device stall can interrupt the stream even when your internet is working.
- If you use Wi-Fi, try a wired connection where available and pause large uploads while testing.
- In Rocket Broadcaster, use Broadcast → Streams → Test Stream when the problem occurs and read the diagnostic result.
- If it continues, send TJ Lusch your broadcaster name, error or diagnostic result, and the time of the drop in a private Second Life message.
Check it worked
A sustained test stays connected and several listeners hear steady playback. Keep testing long enough to cover the period in which the original issue appeared.
If it does not work
- Encoder remains connected: compare listener and player tests.
- Meters stop too: inspect the audio device and source application.
- A second source is using the same account: confirm the permitted handover method with TJ Lusch.
- Repeated drops: send the times, software and error text to support.
Notes and references
Good to know: Disconnections can involve the audio device, internet connection, network route, or stream server. Do not assume a single cause from one failed test.
Further reading: Rocket Broadcaster: Troubleshooting