Built-In Backup Tool

SAM Broadcaster Pro includes a Backup option in the Tools menu. Use this to back up your SAM database, which contains your library metadata, categories and rotation settings. Run this regularly — at minimum weekly, and immediately after any major changes to your library or configuration.

What Else to Back Up

• Your audio library — the most important and time-consuming asset to rebuild if lost
• Encoder settings — server addresses and passwords
• Event Scheduler events
• Audio Mixer Pipeline settings
• Layout files — your panel arrangement

Backup Locations

Follow the 3-2-1 rule: 3 copies, on 2 different types of media, with 1 copy stored offsite or in the cloud.

• External USB hard drive
• NAS (Network Attached Storage) on your local network
• Cloud backup service such as Backblaze, Google Drive or OneDrive

Database Maintenance

Run Tools → Maintenance periodically to keep the SAM database healthy. This compacts and repairs the database, which helps prevent slowdowns and corruption over time.

Common Problems and Solutions

No Audio on Stream

• Check the Encoders panel (Window → Encoders) — confirm the encoder shows as connected
• Verify your server address, port and password are correct
• Check that your firewall is not blocking SAM Broadcaster Pro’s outbound connection
• Confirm Auto DJ is running and tracks are playing on Deck A or Deck B

Metadata Not Updating

• Confirm artist and title tags are correctly filled in for your library tracks
• Check the metadata format string in your encoder settings
• Check your streaming host’s documentation for any specific metadata format requirements

SAM Broadcaster Pro Running Slowly or Freezing

• Run Tools → Maintenance to compact the database
• Check CPU and RAM usage in Task Manager — SAM should not be competing with other heavy applications
• Reduce the number of DSP plugins active in the Audio Mixer Pipeline
• Update SAM Broadcaster Pro to the latest version from spacial.com

Songs Repeating Too Often

• Increase artist and title separation values in your Config settings
• Add more tracks to your music library
• Verify tracks are correctly assigned to the right categories

Pre-Launch Checklist

Before announcing your station publicly:

• Stream stable for at least 24 hours of continuous playback
• Metadata updating correctly in multiple players
• Audio levels consistent — no tracks noticeably louder or quieter
• Encoder reconnects automatically after a disconnection test
• SAM restarts and resumes broadcasting after a PC reboot
• Backup completed and verified
• Remote access working