X1H-ETX & X1H-ERX Overview and Use Cases

What Is the X1H-ETX & X1H-ERX?

The ToVi X1H-ETX and X1H-ERX are part of the X1 Series 1080p AV over IP system with video wall support. The X1H-ETX is the Encoder, and the X1H-ERX is the Decoder. Together, they distribute HDMI video and audio signals over standard 100M / 1G network infrastructure.

The system supports signal transmission up to 328ft / 100m over CAT5e / CAT6 / CAT6A / CAT7 cable. It uses H.265 / H.264 compression and supports video resolutions up to 1920x1200@60Hz 4:4:4. It can be used for point-to-point extension, multicast distribution, matrix switching, and video wall layouts up to 9x9.

The X1H-ETX Encoder connects to the HDMI source device. The X1H-ERX Decoder connects to the HDMI display. Both units connect to the network using LAN / PoE ports. The system also supports audio embedding, audio extraction, RS-232 control, WebGUI configuration, VLC stream pulling, PoE, front panel control, and control through the X1H-CB control box.

The X1H-ETX & X1H-ERX system is useful for commercial AV, digital signage, control rooms, video walls, classrooms, conference rooms, retail displays, command centers, houses of worship, security monitoring, and installations where HDMI signals need to be distributed over an IP network.

IMPORTANT — X1H-ETX Is the Encoder and X1H-ERX Is the Decoder

The X1H system uses separate Encoder and Decoder units.

The Encoder connects to the HDMI source.

The Decoder connects to the HDMI display.

Use one Encoder for each HDMI source and one Decoder for each display.

IMPORTANT — This Is an AV over IP System

The X1H-ETX & X1H-ERX system distributes HDMI over a network.

This product is designed for network-based AV distribution, not simple direct HDMI splitting only.

IMPORTANT — Supports up to 1920x1200@60Hz

The X1H-ETX & X1H-ERX support video resolutions up to 1920x1200@60Hz 4:4:4.

This model does not support 4K, 4K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, or 8K.

IMPORTANT — Uses H.265 / H.264 Compression

The X1H-ETX & X1H-ERX use configurable video compression.

The system is designed for high-quality, low-bandwidth video distribution across a 1G network.

IMPORTANT — Extends up to 328ft / 100m Over CAT Cable

The X1H system supports signal transmission up to 328ft / 100m over network cable.

For best performance, use high-quality CAT5e or better cable.

Poor CAT cable, weak terminations, damaged connectors, couplers, wall plates, patch panels, or low-quality network cable may cause no video, unstable stream, network connection issues, pixelation, freezing, or Decoder not linking to the Encoder.

IMPORTANT — 1G Network Switch Is Recommended

The manual recommends a managed or Layer 3 network switch for best performance.

Recommended switch models listed in the manual include:

Common switch brands such as NETGEAR, Cisco, Huawei, H3C, and TP-Link can be used when they meet the required network features.

IMPORTANT — Video Wall up to 9x9 Is Supported

The X1H-ETX & X1H-ERX support video wall layouts up to 9x9.

Use one Decoder for each display in the video wall.

For example, a 2x2 video wall requires four Decoders.

IMPORTANT — Matrix Switching and Multicast Are Supported

The X1H system supports flexible AV distribution.

A Decoder can be assigned to receive video from a selected Encoder.

When multiple Encoders and Decoders are used without a Control Box, the units must be matched using front panel buttons or RS-232 commands.

IMPORTANT — Up to 762 Encoders and 762 Decoders Are Supported

The manual lists the maximum number of units on a single network as:

The actual system size depends on network bandwidth, switch performance, multicast configuration, and system design.

Each Encoder uses almost 20Mbps of bandwidth, so the network must provide sufficient bandwidth when many Encoders are used.

IMPORTANT — Power over Ethernet Is Supported

The X1H-ETX and X1H-ERX support PoE through the LAN port.

If the LAN port is connected to a PoE switch, the power adapter is not required.

If a PoE switch is not used, connect the included DC 12V/1A power adapter.

IMPORTANT — X1H-CB Control Box Is Supported

The X1H-ETX and X1H-ERX can be controlled using the X1H-CB Control Box / Video Network Hub.

The X1H-CB is recommended for easier management of larger systems, matrix routing, and video wall applications.

IMPORTANT — WebGUI Control Is Supported

The X1H system includes built-in WebGUI configuration.

The WebGUI can be used to configure:

• Device information
• IP address
• Subnet mask
• Gateway
• MAC address
• Main stream settings
• Sub stream settings
• H.264 / H.265 video encoding
• PCM / AAC audio encoding
• Bitrate
• Audio input selection
• EDID settings
• Decoder transmission protocol
• Decoder scaler output resolution
• EDID download
• No-video timeout behavior
• Picture settings
• Brightness
• Contrast
• Hue
• Saturation
• HTTPS setting
• Local ID
• Username and password
• Network settings
• RS-232 settings
• Firmware update
• Factory reset
• Reboot

The default WebGUI username is admin, and the default password is admin.

IMPORTANT — VLC Pull Streaming Is Supported

The X1H system supports stream playback on a computer using software such as VLC media player.

The default device IP address is listed as 169.254.100.254.

If a router is used or the IP address changes, use the front panel buttons and LED screen to check the current IP address.

IMPORTANT — RS-232 Control Is Supported

The X1H system supports RS-232 through a 3-pin Phoenix connector.

The manual gives an example RS-232 command for matching a Decoder to an Encoder:

!OUT xxx FR yyy\r\n

In this command, xxx is the Decoder ID and yyy is the Encoder ID.

IMPORTANT — Audio Embedding and Extraction Are Supported

The X1H-ETX Encoder supports HDMI audio or external analog audio embedding.

The X1H-ERX Decoder supports analog audio output.

Supported audio format:

IMPORTANT — EDID Management Is Supported

The Encoder supports EDID settings through the front panel or WebGUI.

Notes:

• H refers to HDMI.
• D refers to DVI.
• EDID ID 06 / 07 / 08 requires the Controller Box.
• If no copied or user EDID is available, the default 1080p60 EDID is used.

IMPORTANT — Decoder Output Scaling Is Supported

The Decoder supports output resolution settings.

Use scaling when the display requires a fixed output resolution.

Ports and Panel Layout

Encoder — X1H-ETX

Decoder — X1H-ERX

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Connect the HDMI source device to HDMI IN on the X1H-ETX Encoder.

Examples include a desktop PC, laptop, media player, Blu-ray player, streaming device, DVR, NVR, HDMI matrix output, or HDMI switch output.

1. Connect the X1H-ETX Encoder LAN port to a 1G PoE network switch using CAT5e / CAT6 / CAT6A / CAT7 cable.
2. Connect the X1H-ERX Decoder LAN port to the same network switch using CAT5e / CAT6 / CAT6A / CAT7 cable.
3. Connect HDMI OUT on the Decoder to a TV, monitor, projector, or display.
4. If using PoE, confirm the switch provides power to the Encoder and Decoder.
5. If not using PoE, connect the included DC 12V/1A power adapters to the Encoder and Decoder.
6. Set the Encoder ID using the front panel CH SELECT buttons if needed.
7. Set the Decoder ID and match it to the desired Encoder if needed.
8. If using multiple Encoders and Decoders without a Control Box, match each Encoder and Decoder using front panel buttons or RS-232 commands.
9. If using WebGUI, connect a PC to the same network switch.
10. Check the IP address using the front panel LED screen.
11. Set the PC IP address to the same network segment as the Encoder / Decoder.
12. Open the device IP address in a browser.
13. Log in to WebGUI using the default username admin and password admin.
14. Configure video, audio, EDID, scaler, network, RS-232, and stream settings as needed.
15. If using video wall mode, configure the video wall layout using WebGUI or the X1H-CB control box.
16. Test video output, audio output, network switching, RS-232, and video wall behavior.

CAT Cable Requirement — Critical

Use high-quality CAT5e / CAT6 / CAT6A / CAT7 cable.

Poor or incorrectly terminated CAT cable may cause:

• No video
• Network link failure
• Decoder not connecting to Encoder
• Stream freezing
• Pixelation
• High latency
• Audio dropouts
• PoE power issues
• Data LED not flashing
• LINK LED off
• Video wall instability

Use direct, properly terminated CAT cable whenever possible.

HDMI Cable Requirement — Critical

Use high-quality HDMI cables.

Poor HDMI cables may cause:

• No picture
• Flickering
• Black screen
• HDMI source not detected
• Incompatible signal warning
• Wrong resolution
• HDCP handshake issues
• Audio dropouts

For troubleshooting, test the HDMI source directly with the display before using the AV over IP system.

Network Switch Requirement — Critical

Use a suitable network switch for stable AV over IP performance.

If using switch cascading, 10G uplink is supported.

Each Encoder uses almost 20Mbps of bandwidth, so confirm the switch has enough capacity for the number of Encoders and Decoders in the system.

PoE / Power Requirement — Critical

The X1H-ETX and X1H-ERX can be powered using PoE or the included DC power adapter.

If the LAN port is connected to a PoE switch, the power adapter is not required.

If the device does not power on, check the PoE switch, LAN cable, power adapter, and DC 12V input.

RS-232 Requirement — Critical

Use the included 3-pin Phoenix connector for RS-232.

If RS-232 does not work, check Phoenix wiring, baud rate, parity, stop bits, data bits, and whether the Encoder and Decoder are linked.

WebGUI Setup Requirement — Critical

To access WebGUI:

1. Connect the PC, Encoders, and Decoders to the same switch.
2. Check the device IP address from the front panel LED screen.
3. Set the PC IP address to the same network segment.
4. Open the device IP address in a browser.
5. Log in with username admin and password admin.

If WebGUI does not open:

• Confirm the PC is on the same network segment.
• Check the device IP address.
• Check the network switch.
• Check LAN cables.
• Confirm the device is powered.
• Try a direct network connection for testing.

Understanding the Encoder

The X1H-ETX Encoder is installed near the HDMI source.

It has:

• HDMI IN
• LAN / PoE port
• AUDIO IN / OUT
• RS-232
• DC 12V input
• POWER LED
• LINK LED
• LED screen
• CH SELECT buttons
• RESET button

The Encoder converts the HDMI source into an AV over IP stream and sends it over the network to one or more Decoders.

The Encoder can use HDMI audio or external analog audio embedding.

Understanding the Decoder

The X1H-ERX Decoder is installed near the display.

It has:

• HDMI OUT
• LAN / PoE port
• AUDIO OUT
• RS-232
• DC 12V input
• POWER LED
• LINK LED
• LED screen
• CH SELECT buttons
• RESET button

The Decoder receives the AV over IP stream from the network and outputs HDMI to the connected display.

The Decoder also provides analog audio output and supports output resolution scaling.

Understanding the Application Example

The application diagram shows multiple Encoders connected to different HDMI sources, such as a desktop computer, TV box, media player, and Blu-ray player. Multiple Decoders connect to TVs and a video wall through a 1G Ethernet switch. A Controller Box is also connected to manage the system.

This shows the main use case: distributing multiple HDMI sources to multiple displays and video wall zones over a 1G network.

Understanding LED Indicators

Encoder LED Indicators

Decoder LED Indicators

Use these LEDs first when troubleshooting power, network, video input, data transmission, and PoE issues.

Supported Video, Audio, Network, and Control Features

Supported Technical Specifications

What Source Devices Is the X1H-ETX Compatible With?

The X1H-ETX Encoder is compatible with HDMI source devices such as:

• Desktop PCs
• Laptops with HDMI output
• Media players
• Blu-ray players
• DVD players
• TV boxes
• Streaming devices
• DVRs
• NVRs
• HDMI matrix outputs
• HDMI switch outputs
• AV receivers with HDMI output

The source must output a supported HDMI resolution up to 1920x1200@60Hz.

What Displays Is the X1H-ERX Compatible With?

The X1H-ERX Decoder can connect to HDMI displays such as:

• 1080p TVs
• Monitors
• Projectors
• Commercial displays
• Digital signage displays
• Control room displays
• Video wall displays
• Classroom displays
• Conference room displays
• Retail displays

The display must support the selected Decoder output resolution.

What Network Equipment Is Compatible With the X1H System?

The X1H system works with suitable 1G / 10G network switches.

Recommended features include:

• Managed or Layer 3 switch
• 1G or 10G bandwidth
• 8KB jumbo frame support
• IGMP snooping
• PoE support if powering the units through LAN
• 10G uplink for cascading switches

Recommended switch models include ToVi NS-1G24, ToVi NS-1G48, HUAWEI S5720S-28X-PWR-LI-AC, and NETGEAR S3300.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the ToVi X1H-ETX & X1H-ERX used for? 
A: It is used to distribute HDMI video and audio over a 100M / 1G network, with support for matrix switching, multicast, RS-232, audio embedding / extraction, and video wall layouts up to 9x9.

Q: What is the difference between X1H-ETX and X1H-ERX? 
A: X1H-ETX is the Encoder that connects to the HDMI source. X1H-ERX is the Decoder that connects to the HDMI display.

Q: Is this an AV over IP system? 
A: Yes. It distributes video and audio over standard network infrastructure.

Q: Does it support 4K? 
A: No. It supports up to 1920x1200@60Hz 4:4:4.

Q: Does it support 1080p@60Hz? 
A: Yes. It supports 1080p@60Hz and up to 1920x1200@60Hz.

Q: Does it support 4K@60Hz? 
A: No. It does not support 4K@60Hz.

Q: Does it support 8K? 
A: No. It does not support 8K.

Q: What HDMI version does it support? 
A: It supports HDMI 1.3.

Q: What HDCP version does it support? 
A: It supports HDCP 1.4.

Q: What video compression does it use? 
A: It supports H.265 and H.264 compression.

Q: What is the maximum transmission distance? 
A: It supports up to 328ft / 100m over CAT5e / CAT6 / CAT6A / CAT7 cable.

Q: What CAT cable should I use? 
A: Use CAT5e, CAT6, CAT6A, or CAT7 cable.

Q: Does it support Power over Ethernet? 
A: Yes. It supports PoE through the LAN port.

Q: Do I need the power adapter if I use a PoE switch? 
A: No. If the LAN port is connected to a PoE switch, the power adapter is not required.

Q: What power adapter does it use if PoE is not available? 
A: It uses a DC 12V/1A power adapter.

Q: Does it support video wall? 
A: Yes. It supports video wall layouts up to 9x9.

Q: How many displays can I use for a video wall? 
A: The manual lists video wall support up to 9x9.

Q: How many Encoders and Decoders can be connected on a single network? 
A: The manual lists up to 762 Encoders and 762 Decoders.

Q: Can I cascade switches? 
A: Yes. Switch cascading with 10G is supported.

Q: How much bandwidth does each Encoder use? 
A: The manual states each Encoder uses almost 20Mbps, so sufficient bandwidth must be provided when cascading switches.

Q: What switch should I use? 
A: Use a managed or Layer 3 1G / 10G switch with 8KB jumbo frame and IGMP snooping support.

Q: Does it support matrix switching? 
A: Yes. It supports matrix switching over the network.

Q: Does it support multicast? 
A: Yes. It supports UDP multicast. UDP unicast is also available.

Q: Does it support audio embedding? 
A: Yes. The Encoder can use HDMI audio or external analog audio input.

Q: Does it support audio extraction? 
A: Yes. The Decoder includes AUDIO OUT through a 3-pin Phoenix connector.

Q: What audio format is supported? 
A: It supports LPCM 2.0CH at 32 / 44.1 / 48KHz.

Q: Does it support RS-232? 
A: Yes. RS-232 pass-through and local serial control are supported.

Q: Does it support WebGUI control? 
A: Yes. WebGUI control is supported.

Q: What is the default WebGUI username and password? 
A: The default username is admin, and the default password is admin.

Q: How do I check the IP address? 
A: Press and hold the UP button on the front panel for 5 seconds. The LED screen will show the IP address sequence.

Q: What is the default IP address for VLC streaming? 
A: The manual lists the default IP address as 169.254.100.254.

Q: Does it support VLC streaming? 
A: Yes. Main Stream and Sub Stream can be pulled using VLC or compatible software.

Q: What are the VLC stream URLs? 
A: Main Stream: rtsp://169.254.100.254/live/main/av_stream. Sub Stream: rtsp://169.254.100.254/live/sub/av_stream.

Q: Does it support EDID management? 
A: Yes. EDID settings are available on the Encoder through front panel controls and WebGUI.

Q: Does it support output scaling? 
A: Yes. The Decoder supports output resolution scaling up to 1920x1200P60.

Q: What does the Encoder LINK LED mean? 
A: Solid means network is connected with compatible signal, 1Hz flashing means network is connected but no video input, 10Hz flashing means incompatible input signal, and off means network is not connected.

Q: What does the Decoder LINK LED mean? 
A: Solid means network is connected with video data, flashing means network is connected but no video data, and off means network is not connected.

Q: What does “SHO” on the LED screen mean? 
A: When the SHOW ME option is selected in the controller, the corresponding unit flashes “SHO” so the installer can identify the device.

Q: What should I do if there is no video? 
A: Check the HDMI source resolution, network switch, CAT cable, Encoder / Decoder ID matching, LINK LEDs, PoE or power adapter, and confirm the source is outputting 1920x1200@60Hz or lower.

Q: What should I do if the WebGUI does not open? 
A: Check the device IP address, set the PC to the same network segment, confirm all devices are connected to the same switch, and verify the network cable and power.

Q: What should I do if the video wall does not display correctly? 
A: Check the Decoder assignments, video wall layout settings, network switch configuration, IGMP snooping, cable quality, and whether all Decoders are linked to the correct Encoder.

Q: Does the X1H-ETX & X1H-ERX need external power? 
A: It can be powered by PoE through a compatible PoE switch or by the included DC 12V/1A power adapter.