This FAQ aims to address common questions about the error message "This video file cannot be played (Error Code: 102630)" encountered when using Wowza and similar streaming platforms.
1. What does Error Code 102630 mean?
Error Code 102630 typically indicates that the media player is unable to load or play the video file. This issue can be related to video encoding, browser compatibility, or network conditions.
2. What are the most common causes of this error?
Several factors can contribute to this error:
- Unsupported video format or codec: The player may not recognize the file's encoding.
- Corrupted video file: The file may be damaged or incomplete.
- Browser issues: Outdated browsers or browser settings (e.g., disabled JavaScript) can prevent videos from loading.
- Slow or unstable network connection: Poor internet connectivity can interrupt video loading.
- CDN or server issues: The content delivery network (CDN) may have an issue delivering the video.
3. How can I resolve the error?
Here are steps to troubleshoot and fix the error:
- Check video format: Ensure the video is in a supported format (such as MP4 using H.264 codec). You may need to re-encode the video if necessary.
- Test with a different browser: Switch to a different, up-to-date browser (such as Chrome or Firefox) to see if the issue persists.
- Clear cache and cookies: Clearing browser cache and cookies can resolve playback issues caused by outdated or corrupted data.
- Inspect network conditions: Test your internet connection for stability and speed. A slow connection can prevent proper loading.
- Check the source URL: Ensure that the video URL is correct and accessible.
- Review player configurations: If you're using a custom media player, verify that it’s configured correctly, particularly the URL and playback settings.
4. Is this error browser-specific?
While the error can occur on any browser, it’s more commonly seen in older versions or when there are specific settings preventing video playback (e.g., disabled JavaScript, missing media codecs). Switching to an up-to-date browser can often resolve the issue.
5. Does the file size or quality affect playback?
Yes, larger file sizes and higher video quality can cause issues if the network connection is insufficient for streaming. Consider offering different quality levels (using adaptive bitrate streaming) to ensure smooth playback across various devices and network conditions.
6. Could this error be caused by server or CDN issues?
Yes, if the server or content delivery network is experiencing downtime, congestion, or misconfiguration, this could result in videos failing to load and showing the 102630 error. Check your CDN status or server logs for any interruptions or errors.
7. What should I do if the error persists across multiple browsers and devices?
If the error persists:
- Re-encode the video to a more commonly supported format, such as MP4 (H.264 codec) for video and AAC for audio.
- Test on different networks: Use a different network to determine if it's a connection issue.
- Inspect error logs: If you’re using Wowza or a custom player, review the logs for any playback-related issues that can provide further insight.
8. How can I prevent this error in the future?
To minimize the chances of encountering this error:
- Encode videos using standard codecs: Use widely supported formats like H.264 for video and AAC for audio.
- Test videos on multiple devices and browsers: Ensure compatibility across different platforms.
- Optimize video quality for different network speeds: Implement adaptive bitrate streaming to accommodate users with varying bandwidth.
- Monitor server and CDN performance: Use monitoring tools to detect any potential disruptions in video delivery.
9. Can this error be resolved by Wowza Streaming Engine settings?
Yes, certain Wowza Streaming Engine settings can help avoid this error. Ensure the stream is correctly configured for the delivery protocol you're using (HLS, WebRTC, etc.), and that it supports the video format and codec required by the player.
10. Where can I find more help?
If you've tried the above steps and the issue persists, refer to the Wowza Streaming Engine documentation, check Wowza Community forums, or contact Wowza Support for further assistance.