To start a live stream with AWS Elemental Link, connect and configure the physical Link device, create an Elemental Link input in AWS Elemental MediaLive in the same AWS Region, then attach that input to a MediaLive channel. Start the source feed before running the channel: AWS recommends this timing to avoid charges for an idle input and running channel. Link UHD can also feed an AWS Elemental MediaConnect flow; Link HD cannot.
What you need before you start
AWS Elemental Link is a physical device that sends a live video source into AWS. It is different from the Link input device interface in the MediaLive console and from the Elemental Link input resource you create for a channel.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- An AWS account with permissions to configure the Link device and create the required MediaLive resources. AWS setup guidance calls for appropriate IAM permissions.
- A Link device that is visible to your AWS account. If it came through an AWS reseller, AWS says it may need to be claimed.
- A live video source and the appropriate connection to the Link unit. AWS’s data sheet describes power, IP network, and a video source over 3G-SDI or HDMI; check documentation for your specific unit.
- A chosen AWS Region. For the MediaLive workflow, the device, Elemental Link input, and channel should be in the same Region.
Choose the right Link model and workflow
| Device | Documented use | Important qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Link HD | MediaLive input for HD or lower; produces the same resolution in HEVC for a MediaLive input. | Not documented as a MediaConnect flow source. |
| Link UHD | MediaLive input for UHD or lower, or a MediaConnect flow source. AWS lists AVC or HEVC output for MediaConnect. | Check AWS’s current model comparison for the precise workflow and supported resolution before planning an event. |
For a standard live channel, use the MediaLive input workflow below. Choose MediaConnect only when that is the intended contribution workflow; its additional requirements are described separately.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Set up Link for a MediaLive channel
1. Connect the device and source
- Connect power and the device to the IP network.
- Connect the live production feed over the connector your setup uses: HDMI or SDI. Confirm which source is carrying video before configuring the device.
- Ensure the device is claimed if required and visible in the intended AWS account and Region.
2. Configure the Link device in MediaLive
In the MediaLive console, locate the Link input device and configure it for the event. Set a descriptive device name and select the input source: SDI, HDMI, or the available automatic behavior where appropriate. If both connectors may be active, choose the intended source rather than assuming the device will select the desired feed.
#1 Best Overall
You can optionally set a maximum bitrate. AWS says that leaving this field blank allows the device to determine a bitrate suited to the network conditions between the device and MediaLive. Use a configured limit only when you have a reason to constrain the feed and understand the available network capacity.
3. Create an Elemental Link input
- In the MediaLive console, create an input and choose the Elemental Link input type.
- Use the same AWS Region as the Link device.
- Choose the input class and select one or two devices as required by that class.
- Review the created input details, including the device identifier. When video is being pushed, the input details can include a thumbnail.
4. Start the source, then attach it to a channel
Have the upstream operator power on the Link device, connect it to the internet, and start sending video before attaching the input to a MediaLive channel and running the channel. AWS recommends waiting for active video to avoid charges associated with an idle input and a running channel.
Rank #2
Attach the Elemental Link input to the channel as you would another MediaLive input, then configure the rest of the channel and its output for the destination you intend to use. AWS documents a MediaLive workflow wizard that accepts Link hardware and includes delivery paths such as YouTube, Facebook, or Twitch; the downstream setup still depends on the account and event.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
5. Confirm video is arriving
Check the input thumbnail when available and inspect the device metrics in MediaLive. Verify that the expected source is reaching AWS before investigating problems with the channel’s downstream output.
Using Link UHD as a MediaConnect source
This is a separate workflow from attaching a Link input to a MediaLive channel, and it requires Link UHD. AWS’s documented flow setup uses a MediaConnect flow in the same Region, a Zixi push source with AES 128 static-key encryption, and the relevant flow and IAM details. Follow the current AWS Link-to-MediaConnect instructions for the exact console fields and permissions; do not apply these MediaConnect-specific settings to the simpler MediaLive channel workflow.
Troubleshoot common setup problems
- The device is not visible in the account: confirm the AWS account and Region, check that the device has been deployed and connected, and determine whether a reseller-supplied unit still needs to be claimed.
- The input or channel cannot use the device: verify that the device, input, and channel are in the same Region and that the account has the required IAM permissions.
- No video appears in the input thumbnail: check device power and internet connectivity, confirm the upstream source is actively sending video, and verify that the selected input source matches the connected HDMI or SDI feed.
- The wrong feed is arriving: revisit the SDI, HDMI, or automatic source-selection setting, especially if both connectors may be active.
- The bitrate is unsuitable for the connection: review the optional maximum-bitrate setting. If it is blank, AWS says the device determines a bitrate suited to network conditions between the device and MediaLive.
- The workflow requires a MediaConnect source but the unit is HD: AWS documents MediaConnect flow sourcing for Link UHD, not Link HD.
- Charges begin before the event is ready: do not attach the input and run the channel until the operator has powered the hardware, connected it to the internet, and begun sending video.
Or let it run in the cloud
For a different use case—keeping uploaded videos looping as a 24/7 YouTube live stream—StreamNeo is a cloud service, not a replacement for Elemental Link’s live camera or production-feed workflow. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; uploads stream as made, up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot; and StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo or plans and pricing, then start your free day.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
