Are You Wired In?

A professional broadcast standard for American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters working in remote live media.

A wired connection (ethernet) is the professional standard for anyone appearing live on-air. Remote correspondents, invited subject matter experts, and talent are nearly always required to use ethernet for live appearances because it provides the reliability, stability, and high upload speeds necessary to prevent video buffering, audio drops, and latency issues.

While Wi-Fi can be convenient, it is susceptible to interference, signal degradation, and bandwidth congestion — all of which can cause irreversible harm to the quality of live broadcasts.

As ASL interpreters rightfully take on high-visibility civic and cultural moments in broadcast media, the same professional standard must apply. A wired connection is a one-time investment in your capacity to be technically dependable for remote work in live media.

What you need

An ethernet cable ($8–15 USD)

The physical cord that connects your computer directly to your router or modem. A length of 6–15 feet is sufficient for most personal living spaces. Available online or at many office supply stores.

A USB-to-ethernet adapter ($15–30 USD)

Most modern laptops no longer have a built-in ethernet port, they are designed for Wi-Fi only. A USB-to-ethernet adapter plugs into any USB port and adds an ethernet connection. Once obtained, plug the ethernet cable directly into the adapter. Available online or at many office supply stores.

Test your connectivity

Once your cable is plugged in, open a browser and confirm that your internet connection is working. Then, run a speed test at fast.com or speedtest.net. Since your connection needs enough speed to power the live broadcast as well as your device's unrelated background activity, your speed test must show at least 25 Mbps for both upload and download.

What’s ping? Ping is the speed at which data travels between your computer and the internet. The slower the number, the faster and more stable your connection. 

Never assume a connection is working. Verify it by running at least two tests.

Are You Wired In? Remote Broadcast Checklist

Do you have an ethernet cable?

Do you have a USB-To-Ethernet adapter?

Is your cable plugged directly into your router?

Have you tested your connection within 2 hours of the broadcast?

Additional information about All Together Now and its body of work can be found at alltogethernow.live. Additional information about Invest In Access and its body of work can be found at invest-in-access.org.