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
Setup for WebRTC demo
Microsoft Teams
Use inside of web browser.