X1H-ETX Overview and Use Cases

What Is the X1H-ETX?

The ToVi X1H-ETX is a 1080p AV over IP Encoder from the X1 Series with video wall support. It is designed to encode HDMI video and audio signals and distribute them over standard 100M / 1G network infrastructure.

The X1H-ETX connects to an HDMI source device and sends the signal over CAT5e / CAT6 / CAT6A / CAT7 cable to one or more compatible X1 Series Decoders, such as the X1H-ERX. It supports point-to-point extension, one-to-many distribution, multicast, matrix switching, and video wall layouts up to 9x9 when used with compatible Decoders and network equipment.

The X1H-ETX supports HDMI 1.3 and HDCP 1.4, with a video bandwidth of 4.95Gbps. It supports video resolutions up to 1920x1200@60Hz 4:4:4, H.265 / H.264 compression, LPCM 2.0CH audio, audio embedding, RS-232 pass-through, local serial control, WebGUI configuration, VLC pull streaming, front panel ID control, and Power over Ethernet.

The X1H-ETX is useful for commercial AV systems, digital signage, control rooms, video walls, classrooms, conference rooms, retail displays, houses of worship, command centers, and any installation where one HDMI source needs to be distributed over an IP network.

IMPORTANT — X1H-ETX Is an Encoder

The X1H-ETX is the Encoder / Transmitter side of the X1 Series system.

The X1H-ETX connects to the HDMI source.

The compatible Decoder connects to the HDMI display.

Use one X1H-ETX Encoder for each HDMI source.

IMPORTANT — A Decoder Is Required for Display Output

The X1H-ETX does not connect directly to a display as the final output device.

It requires a compatible X1 Series Decoder, such as the X1H-ERX, to receive the network stream and output HDMI to a display.

The Encoder sends the signal into the network. The Decoder converts the network stream back to HDMI.

IMPORTANT — This Is an AV over IP Encoder

The X1H-ETX is designed for network-based AV distribution.

This product is not a standard HDMI extender by itself. It is part of a network-based AV over IP system.

IMPORTANT — Supports up to 1920x1200@60Hz

The X1H-ETX supports 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 uses configurable video compression for AV over IP transmission.

The Encoder is designed to provide high-quality video distribution while keeping bandwidth requirements manageable on a 1G network.

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

The X1H-ETX 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 supports video wall applications when used with compatible X1 Series Decoders and system control.

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-ETX can be used in flexible AV over IP distribution systems.

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 supports 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 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-ETX includes built-in WebGUI configuration.

The Encoder WebGUI can be used to configure:

• Device information
• Firmware version
• 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
• 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-ETX 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-ETX 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 Is Supported

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

Supported audio format:

The default audio setting is HDMI audio input.

If the Encoder is set to HDMI audio input, the L/R OUT output acts as HDMI audio loop out.

If the Encoder is set to external audio embedding, the L/R IN input is used for external analog audio embedding, and the L/R OUT output is the external audio embedding loop out.

IMPORTANT — EDID Management Is Supported

The X1H-ETX 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.

Use EDID settings when:

• There is no video
• The HDMI source outputs an unsupported resolution
• The display shows an unsupported format
• The wrong resolution appears
• The source does not detect the system correctly
• You need to force 1080p, 720p, 1024x768, 1920x1200, or DVI-style EDID

Ports and Panel Layout

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 LAN port to a 1G PoE network switch using CAT5e / CAT6 / CAT6A / CAT7 cable.
2. Connect compatible X1 Series Decoders to the same network switch.
3. Connect each Decoder HDMI OUT to a TV, monitor, projector, or display.
4. If using PoE, confirm the switch provides power to the X1H-ETX.
5. If not using PoE, connect the included DC 12V/1A power adapter to the X1H-ETX.
6. Set the Encoder ID using the front panel CH SELECT buttons if needed.
7. Set the matching Decoder to receive the stream from the desired Encoder.
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 Encoder IP address using the front panel LED screen.
11. Set the PC IP address to the same network segment as the Encoder.
12. Open the Encoder IP address in a browser.
13. Log in to WebGUI using the default username admin and password admin.
14. Configure video, audio, EDID, network, RS-232, stream, and system 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 at the Decoder, 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 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, Encoder, and Decoders to the same switch.
2. Check the Encoder IP address from the front panel LED screen.
3. Set the PC IP address to the same network segment.
4. Open the Encoder 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 Encoder IP address
• Check the network switch
• Check LAN cables
• Confirm the Encoder is powered
• Try a direct network connection for testing

Understanding the X1H-ETX 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 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

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

Encoder Front Panel Settings

The X1H-ETX can be configured using the CH SELECT buttons and LED screen.

Audio options:

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 Decoders Is the X1H-ETX Compatible With?

The X1H-ETX is designed to work with compatible ToVi X1 Series Decoders, including:

• X1H-ERX
• Compatible ToVi X1 Series Decoder models

Use a compatible Decoder for each display location.

What Network Equipment Is Compatible With the X1H-ETX?

The X1H-ETX 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 Encoder 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 used for? 
A: It is used to encode an HDMI source and send it over a 100M / 1G network for AV over IP distribution, matrix switching, multicast, and video wall applications.

Q: Is the X1H-ETX an Encoder or Decoder? 
A: The X1H-ETX is an Encoder. It connects to the HDMI source.

Q: Do I need a Decoder with the X1H-ETX? 
A: Yes. A compatible Decoder, such as the X1H-ERX, is required to output HDMI to a display.

Q: Is this an AV over IP product? 
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 when used with compatible Decoders and system control.

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 when used with compatible Decoders and system control.

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: 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 through front panel controls and WebGUI.

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 “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 need external power? 
A: It can be powered by PoE through a compatible PoE switch or by the included DC 12V/1A power adapter.