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Usually, no. Switchboard Live can relay video only while it receives a feed from an encoder. If that encoder is running on the computer you shut down, the feed stops, so Switchboard cannot keep relaying it. A separate encoder that stays powered and connected may work, but you must verify its setup and behavior.
Why Switchboard Live needs an encoder
Switchboard Live is a cloud-based application, but it is not itself the source of your video. An encoder—such as OBS, Switcher Studio, Ecamm Live, vMix, or LiveU—sends video into a Switchboard workflow. Switchboard then handles the workflow and selected streaming destinations.
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Switchboard’s workflow waits until it detects incoming video before enabling the Go Live control. Its YouTube setup sequence likewise begins by sending video from the encoder to the workflow, checking that video appears in the confidence monitor and that the receiving indicator is green, and then choosing YouTube and selecting Go Live.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsWhat happens when you shut down the computer
If the encoder is software running on the computer being shut down, that computer stops supplying its video feed. The fact that Switchboard runs in the cloud does not keep that encoder—or its source—running. The stream therefore cannot continue through that feed after shutdown.
#1 Best Overall
- 【1080P 60FPS Video Capture Card】 This HDMI game capture card is based on USB3.0 high speed transmission port, input resolution up to 4K@30HZ, output resolution up to 2K@30Hz or 1920×1080@60Hz. Type c and USB interface can meet most of the devices in daily life. Easily meet the online capture, real-time recording, online meetings, live gaming and other functions, so you have a better visual enjoyment. Note: For capture use only; requires capture software to function and is not intended for direct screen casting to a monitor or TV
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- 【Package Content & Note】 1x HD Audio Capture Card , 1x USB 3.0 to USB C Adapter (A-side 3.0, B-side 2.0), 1x user manual. Please note that you need to restart the OBS Studio software after the audio setup is complete, otherwise it will result in no sound output. When using an adapter, if the device is recognized as USB 2.0, try using the other side with the USB-C port. Simply flip the capture card and reconnect it to be recognized as USB 3.0
This describes the encoder dependency; it is not a guarantee about how every third-party encoder or YouTube handles a dropped connection or reconnect. Switchboard’s documented workflow requires incoming encoder video, but the documentation does not establish a universal reconnect outcome.
Could a different encoder keep the stream going?
Possibly. Switchboard describes software, hardware, mobile, and cloud-based encoder categories. A separate encoder could avoid relying on software running on the computer you plan to turn off, but the category alone does not prove that a particular device or service will keep your broadcast going.
Rank #2
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Before relying on that setup, confirm that the encoder can receive your video source, remain powered and connected, and send video to the configured Switchboard workflow and YouTube destination. Then verify that Switchboard is receiving video before starting the YouTube stream.
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- Identify the encoder. Find the device or service that actually sends video into Switchboard.
- Check where it runs. If it runs on the computer you intend to shut down, expect its feed to stop when that computer powers off.
- Verify any separate encoder. Check its video input, power, network connection, and configuration for the Switchboard workflow and YouTube destination.
- Confirm the feed in Switchboard. Use the confidence monitor and receiving indicator to confirm incoming video before selecting YouTube and going live.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is to keep uploaded videos looping on a YouTube channel rather than stream a live camera or computer-based production, StreamNeo is an alternative to consider first: it runs the stream from the cloud, supports any uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, and gives you a free first day.
Rank #3
- 【4K HDMI Input, 2K@30Hz Recording】Powered by a true USB 3.0 high-speed interface, the capture card supports up to 4K@30Hz HDMI input and records at 2K@30Hz or 1080P@60Hz. Perfect for gamers, streamers, and professionals who need crisp, smooth video for live streaming, gameplay recording, or online meetings.
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- 【What You Get】Includes: HDMI Capture Card, USB 3.0 to USB-C Adapter, User Manual. Tips: Make sure your tablet’s OTG function is enabled before connecting. Test your HDMI device with a monitor first to confirm video and audio output, then connect to the Video Capture Card for recording.
- Upload a recording or build a playlist.
- Add your YouTube stream key once.
- Go live; StreamNeo loops the uploaded video from the cloud.
Nothing has to stay on at home. Videos stream as uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot; if YouTube drops the stream, StreamNeo automatically attempts recovery. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
StreamNeo is for looping uploaded video to YouTube; it does not replace an encoder for a live camera feed or a live production sourced from your computer.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- AV TO USB Converter: Capture videos and audios from VHS, VCR, Hi8, DV tapes to a PC, with the help of our USB Video Converter. Save room while digitizing your favorite old memories
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- Note: The Video Converter is used with acquisition software. We recommend OBS Studio or PotPlayer for Windows, and QuickTime Player for Mac. They can be downloaded for free online. Please operate according to the steps in User Manual or contact us if you have any questions
Rank #4
- 【1080P HD High Quality】Capture resolution up to 1080p for video source and it is ideal for all HDMI devices such as PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, DVDs, DSLR, Camera, Security Camera and set top box. Note: Video input supports 4K30/60Hz and 1080p120/144Hz. Does not support 4K120Hz/144Hz. Output supports up to 2K30Hz.
- 【Plug and Play】No driver or external power supply required, true PnP. Once plugged in, the device is identified automatically as a webcam. Detect input and adjust output automatically. Won't occupy CPU, optional audio capture. No freeze with correct setting.
- 【Compatible with Multiple Systems】suitable for Windows and Mac OS. High speed USB 3.0 technology and superior low latency technology makes it easier for you to transmit live streaming to Twitch, Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, OBS, Potplayer and VLC.
- 【HDMI LOOP-OUT】Based on the high-speed USB 3.0 technology, it can capture one single channel HD HDMI video signal. There is no delay when you are playing game live.
- 【Support Mic-in for Commentary】Rybozen capture card has microphone input and you can use it to add external commentary when playing a game. Please note: it only accepts 3.5mm TRS standard microphone headset.
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