Stopping Windows Media Encoder causes the content stream to stop encoding. Any computer that is receiving the content stream stops receiving content. After stopping the encoder, it can take a few seconds for the capture cards to be reset. If you try to restart the encoder before they have been reset, a message appears telling you that the video device could not be started. Wait a few seconds, and then try to start the encoder again.
Windows Media Encoder can be stopped by clicking the Stop button or by placing limits on the encoding session, such as limiting the file size or file duration.