Using Source-Connect in various remote environments

Source-Connect

This article provides comprehensive guidance on using Source-Connect effectively in various remote and mobile situations. Whether you're connecting from a bustling coffee shop, navigating international travel, setting up your home office, or staying productive in a hotel, we'll cover essential tips and workflows to ensure seamless access and optimal performance.

One of the great things about Source-Connect is that you can take it with you - run Source-Connect on your laptop and connect from anywhere you can find broadband internet. You'll find tips and real-world advice here on moving around while getting your work done.

Our advice above all? Be prepared!

Source-Connect and Mobile Connections in the US

Not all providers will work immediately for Source-Connect when using mobile carriers for your internet service. The following information is being kept updated as information becomes available. Please contact us if you have anything to add, we welcome as much knowledge as possible on this topic to keep everyone informed.

All options will require that you configure port forwarding on your device unless it is a direct USB connection such as a Sierra Wireless USB device (Sprint).

Before you travel, get your wireless device sorted with plenty of time to spare. Contact Source Elements support if you have questions or would like to test with us (requires a current support contract).

We also recommend that you verify that there is good cellular coverage where you are traveling.

Why do I need to worry about having a public IP?

Please read this document that explains the issue:http://source-elements.com/support/networkguide

What to ask your carrier for:

A device that allows port forwarding A public IP address on your connection OR a static public IP address

Examples

Carrier	What you need
Verizon	Verizon requires that you purchase an 890L device to allow for port forwarding. You must also upgrade to a business account, and pay a one-time $500 fee for a static IP address. All Verizon customers are behind their own network address space and Source-Connect will generally have issues connecting without a static / public IP. Verizon and Source-Connect will fail if you do not have the correct device, and a business account. Their 4G coverage can be found here: https://www.verizon.com/coverage-map/ Summary: Requires a business account, static IP address for $500, and Jetpack Mifi 890L (most other devices are not supported for custom port forward rules).
AT&T	AT&T requires that you pay a one-time $500 fee for a static IP address. Their 4G coverage can be found here: https://www.att.com/maps/wireless-coverage.html Summary: Insufficient information to comment.
Sprint	Sprint does not necessarily require the additional purchase of a static IP address, as all connections are currently provided with a public IP. You should be able to use any Sprint compatible device as long as it supports port forwarding or is not a HotSpot device. Their 4G coverage can be found here: http://shop.sprint.com/mysprint/shop/plan/plan_wall.jsp?tabId=pt_data_plans_tab&flow=AAL&planFamilyType=null Click on 'Select cities' link and you can zoom out to see where they do 4G. They do have supported 3G in that area is appears however, which can also work very well. Summary: Should provide a public IP automatically.

Source-Connect and Hotels

One of the great things about Source-Connect is that you can take it with you: run Source-Connect on your laptop and you connect from anywhere you can find broadband internet. Here are some of the issues you should be aware of and how to prepare ahead.

Being Prepared

Before you go, download and install Source-Connect if you haven't done so already. Make sure you have Source-Connect working in your regular environment so you can check that the audio signal is clear and your computer is properly configured. You may need some time to set up Source-Connect at first, so we don't recommend downloading the software an hour before your session.

Being Prepared on Both Sides

It makes a huge difference if the other side you are connecting to has properly configured their network and has been through the Certification process with Source Elements support. Where possible, ask the studio you are connecting to to verify that they have open ports, and everything is working smoothly for them in general well ahead of your session.

Port forwarding

If you have Source-Connect 3.9 on macOS, you're already sorted: it takes care of the connection for you. For Windows users, we have other ways of helping: get in touch with our support team before you travel for some personalized network negotiation tips.

Here's a step-by-step guide with instructions on how to set up port forwarding: https://support.source-elements.com/source-elements/step-by-step-port-forwarding-guide

Testing

Source Elements can provide testing support, however we are only available during the day, and not on weekends. Where possible, try and test as early as possible.

Top Workflows for working from home

Scenario	Details
I need to send HD video with synced audio for review	Use Source-Live with the Source-Live Gateway or the Source-Nexus Gateway.
I need to record remote talent	Use Source-Connect Pro on the studio side and Source-Connect Standard on the talent side
I need to record a podcast or do a live radio show	Use Source-Nexus Gateway and record it to your DAW using Source-Nexus I/O
I need to transfer large video or audio files to a remote location	Use Source-Zip Video to securely compress and package large video files for transfer, or Source-Zip Pro to securely compress and package large audio sessions.
I need to send 5.1 or 7.1 audio in sync with local video	Use Source-Connect Pro X on both sides of the connection with built-in Remote Transport Sync.
I need guests to listen to my mix without them installing software	Use Source-Nexus Gateway and send your mix from your DAW using Source-Nexus I/O

Table of Contents

Source-Connect and Mobile Connections in the US Why do I need to worry about having a public IP? What to ask your carrier for: Examples Source-Connect and Hotels Being Prepared Being Prepared on Both Sides Port forwarding Testing Top Workflows for working from home