HowTo: RICOH THETA Windows Live Streaming

The following RICOH THETA models can stream at 4K 30fps and output an equirectangular stream ready for YouTube using an application such as OBS. The stream appears as a webcam for VLC and OpenCV:

  • THETA X
  • THETA Z1
  • THETA V

The entry models, SC and SC2, do not support live streaming over USB.

For Windows 11, you need a free driver from RICOH.

old link App Download | RICOH360 Support

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Direct Link

https://support.theta360.com/intl/download/liveapp4k/win3

USB Connection to Cameras

Either use the official RICOH THETA cable that came with the camera or make sure that the USB C cable you are using is cable of data. I bought high-speed USB3 cables on Amazon for my personal use (not supported by RICOH).

To fit the USB cable into the Z1, I am using a tripod extension. You can also use a 20tp by 1/4" bolt.

The official RICOH TE-2 extension adapter is $24.95 as of February 3, 2025.

Alternately, you can go to the hardware store and buy similar components.

The parts look like this when assembled.

Set THETA to LIve Streaming Mode

Press the mode button on the side of the camera to set the camera into “Live Streaming” mode. The camera should say live.

On THETA X.

On THETA Z1

Test on March 8, 2024

Using Windows 11

Stream Overlay

Change Resolution

You can change the resolution from 3840x1920 to 1920x960 with the same driver to conserve bandwidth or disk space if you are saving the stream to file.

Example with OBS:

  • Select Custom for Resolution/FPS Type field
  • Select desired resolution for Resolution field

Change Video Color Format Between NV12 and YUY2

Use NV12 if your application supports it. Converting to YUY2 will consume more CPU and power.

WebRTC Demo

getUserMedia

Setup for WebRTC demo

Microsoft Teams

Use inside of web browser.

Google Meet

VLC

Zoom

Unity

Additional Information

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