X2UH-CB Overview and Use Cases

What Is the X2UH-CB?

The ToVi X2UH-CB is a 4K X2 Series Video Network Hub / Control Box designed to manage compatible ToVi X2 Series AV over IP systems. It provides centralized WebGUI control for H.264 / H.265 IP video products, including video routing, matrix switching, video wall control, multiview, KVM control, user permissions, IP camera source management, RS-232, IR, GPIO, and system configuration.

The X2UH-CB is not an Encoder or Decoder. It is the system controller that manages compatible X2 Series Transceivers operating in Encoder mode or Decoder mode. It uses dual 1G LAN ports so the AV/video network and the control network can be separated for improved system performance, security, and reliability.

The X2UH-CB supports secure access through HTTPS and SSH, a built-in browser-based WebGUI, drag-and-drop matrix switching, video wall layouts, windowing, marquee display, multiview operation, mouse roaming for KVM collaboration, IP camera input as a source, high-definition background images, audio mixing for video walls, dual RS-232 ports, IR input and loop output, four GPIO outputs, PoE power, and 1U / 6U V2 rack mounting.

The X2UH-CB is useful for professional AV installations, control rooms, command centers, digital signage networks, corporate collaboration spaces, classrooms, houses of worship, broadcast-style monitoring, security monitoring, video wall systems, KVM operator stations, and other mission-critical AV over IP environments.

IMPORTANT — X2UH-CB Is a Control Box, Not an Encoder or Decoder

The X2UH-CB does not encode HDMI video and does not decode HDMI video. It controls the X2 Series AV over IP system.

Use the X2UH-CB with compatible ToVi X2 Series AV over IP Transceivers. The Transceivers handle HDMI input and output. The X2UH-CB manages the routing, layout, control, and configuration.

IMPORTANT — Designed for ToVi X2 Series 4K AV over IP Systems

The X2UH-CB is designed specifically for ToVi X2 Series AV over IP products and supports H.264 / H.265 IP video product control.

IMPORTANT — Dual 1G LAN Ports Are Used for Network Isolation

The X2UH-CB includes two 1G LAN ports: VIDEO LAN and CONTROL LAN. The purpose of the dual-port design is to isolate the AV/video network from the control network.

The recommended setup is to connect VIDEO LAN and the Encoders / Decoders to the AV network switch, while connecting CONTROL LAN and the control PC to a separate control network. This keeps AV traffic independent from control traffic.

For simple systems, the manual allows connecting VIDEO LAN, Encoders / Decoders, and the PC into the same switch while leaving CONTROL LAN unconnected. However, connecting only CONTROL LAN while leaving VIDEO LAN unconnected is not allowed.

IMPORTANT — VIDEO LAN Supports PoE

If VIDEO LAN is connected to a PoE network switch, the included DC 12V/2.5A power adapter is not required. If the network switch does not support PoE, use the included power adapter.

IMPORTANT — WebGUI Control Is Supported

The X2UH-CB uses a built-in WebGUI to manage compatible X2 Series devices. The WebGUI provides system setup, routing, video wall control, multiview control, KVM permissions, firmware updates, and controller settings.

IMPORTANT — Default WebGUI Access

If there is no router or DHCP server on the CONTROL LAN side, set the PC to the same network segment as 192.168.6.100. For example, set the PC IP address to 192.168.6.88.

IMPORTANT — Two Video LAN IP Modes Are Supported

The VIDEO LAN network domain must be different from the CONTROL LAN network domain. Use automatic mode for simple deployments and static mode when a fixed IP plan is required.

IMPORTANT — Matrix Switching Is Drag-and-Drop

The Matrix page allows drag-and-drop routing between Encoders / IP cameras and Decoders.

To route a source, drag the Encoder or IP camera preview image to the desired Decoder. To disconnect a display, drag the No Source image to the Decoder.

IMPORTANT — Video Wall and Windowing Are Supported

The X2UH-CB provides advanced video wall creation and control. It supports video wall lists, decoder assignment, bezel adjustment, custom resolution, rotation, windowing, presets, source switching, audio mixing, background image upload, and marquee display.

If rotation is needed, the manual recommends setting the video wall resolution to 3840x2160@30Hz, 4096x2160@30Hz, 1080p@60Hz, or lower. Using 4K24Hz or 4K25Hz with 50Hz or 60Hz sources may cause video stuttering.

IMPORTANT — Multiview Is Supported

The multiview function is performed from the Video Wall page by creating a 1x1 video wall to act as the multiview canvas. After that, layouts, presets, windowing, source switching, preview, and marquee settings can be configured using the same workflow as the video wall functions.

IMPORTANT — KVM Collaboration and Mouse Roaming Are Supported

The X2UH-CB supports advanced KVM management for compatible X2 Series KVM systems. It allows user-based KVM permissions and cross-screen mouse roaming so one operator can control multiple PCs across the network.

When a user logs out from the KVM menu, all windows in the video wall / KVM seat where the keyboard and mouse are located are deleted for security purposes.

IMPORTANT — IP Camera Sources Are Supported

The X2UH-CB can add IP camera devices into the system and treat them as source inputs.

The IPC import file includes information such as device quantity, device name, IP address, authentication information, mainstream and substream addresses, and ports.

IMPORTANT — User Permission Management Is Supported

The X2UH-CB WebGUI allows new user accounts to be created with limited access to specific Encoders, Decoders, video walls, and KVM resources.

IMPORTANT — GPIO Control Is Supported

The X2UH-CB includes a 6-pin Phoenix connector with four digital I/O outputs, one ground, and one external power output.

IMPORTANT — IR Input and IR Output Are Supported

The IR receiver pin definition is Power 12V, IR Signal, and Grounding. The IR output is used for IR loop / blaster output. Use the included compatible IR cables.

IMPORTANT — Dual RS-232 Ports Are Supported

The X2UH-CB includes two identical RS-232 serial communication ports using 3-pin Phoenix connectors.

RS-232 can be used for integration with central control systems, external device control, and system command control. WebGUI settings also allow RS-232 baud rate and related settings for connected Encoders and Decoders.

IMPORTANT — Firmware Update Is Supported

The Firmware Update page supports controller firmware, compatible Encoder / Decoder firmware, EDID upload, and decoder logo picture upload.

Ports and Panel Layout

Front Panel

Rear Panel

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Connect the X2UH-CB VIDEO LAN port to the AV over IP network switch where the compatible X2 Series Encoders / Decoders or Transceivers are connected.
2. Connect the CONTROL LAN port to the control network, router, PC, or control switch if network isolation is required.
3. For a simple system, connect VIDEO LAN, the PC, and all Encoders / Decoders to the same switch and leave CONTROL LAN unconnected.
4. Do not connect only CONTROL LAN while leaving VIDEO LAN unconnected.
5. If using PoE, connect VIDEO LAN to a PoE switch. If not using PoE, connect the included 12V/2.5A locking power adapter.
6. Power on the network switch, X2UH-CB, and compatible X2 Series devices.
7. Confirm the POWER LED is on and the STATUS LED becomes solid after startup.
8. Open a browser on the control PC.
9. Enter http://controller.local, 192.168.6.100, or 169.254.8.100 depending on the network setup.
10. Log in using the initial username admin and initial password admin.
11. On first login, set a new eight-digit password using letters or numbers.
12. Select the VIDEO LAN IP management mode: automatic controller management or static IP manual settings.
13. Search for devices and either automatically add discovered Encoders / Decoders or manually add them to the system.
14. Use the Device page to rename devices, change IDs, configure EDID, configure A/V settings, manage RS-232, adjust network settings, and switch device modes if supported.
15. Use the Matrix page to route sources to Decoders using drag-and-drop.
16. Use the Video Wall page to create video walls, assign Decoders, configure windows, presets, marquee, background images, and audio mixing.
17. Use the User page to create access-limited user accounts and KVM permissions.
18. Use Controller Settings to configure Web Control, HTTPS, Telnet, SSH, control network settings, and reset options.
19. Test matrix routing, video walls, multiview, KVM login, mouse roaming, IP camera sources, RS-232, IR, and GPIO behavior.

CAT Cable Requirement — Critical

Poor cabling or weak terminations may cause WebGUI access issues, offline devices, matrix switching failures, video wall instability, KVM issues, control delays, PoE power problems, or devices not being discovered.

Network Requirement — Critical

The recommended system design separates AV traffic and control traffic.

If no network isolation is required, all devices and the PC may be connected to one switch through VIDEO LAN while CONTROL LAN remains unconnected. Do not leave VIDEO LAN unconnected when trying to control the AV over IP system.

PoE / Power Requirement — Critical

If the X2UH-CB does not power on, check the PoE switch, VIDEO LAN cable, DC power adapter, wall outlet, and DC 12V input.

Rack Mounting

Use the included mounting ears and screws and follow the rack mounting steps shown in the manual.

Understanding the X2UH-CB Application Example

The application example shows the X2UH-CB connected to a 1G switch along with multiple Encoders and Decoders. Source devices include a TV box, laptop, phone / pad laptop, Blu-ray player, media player, and PC. Display devices include a projector, monitors, and a group of displays. USB connections are used for a keyboard and mouse at the operator seat, and audio can be routed to an amplifier. This illustrates how the X2UH-CB manages a complete AV over IP system with video distribution, audio, KVM operator control, and multiple display outputs.

Supported Control and Network Features

• H.264 / H.265 IP video product control
• Dual 1G LAN ports
• AV and control network isolation
• VIDEO LAN PoE support
• WebGUI control
• HTTPS and SSH support
• Telnet and API command control
• Drag-and-drop matrix switching
• Matrix presets
• Video wall creation
• Multiview operation
• Windowing up to 36 windows
• Marquee display
• Background image support
• Audio mixing up to 8 sources including IPC
• IP camera source input
• KVM user permissions
• Mouse roaming and KVM OSD menu
• Encoder / Decoder discovery and management
• User account management
• Dual RS-232 ports
• IR input and output
• Four GPIO outputs
• Firmware update
• 1U / 6U V2 rack mounting
• 24/7 system design

Supported Technical Specifications

What Devices Is the X2UH-CB Compatible With?

The X2UH-CB is designed for compatible ToVi X2 Series AV over IP products, including Transceivers operating in Encoder mode and Decoder mode. It can also manage compatible IP camera sources as source inputs when configured in the WebGUI.

• Compatible ToVi X2 Series Encoders / Transceivers
• Compatible ToVi X2 Series Decoders / Transceivers
• Compatible IP camera sources
• PCs or control systems using WebGUI / Telnet / SSH / API commands
• Third-party control systems

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the ToVi X2UH-CB used for?
A: It is used to control and manage compatible ToVi X2 Series AV over IP systems, including matrix switching, video walls, multiview, KVM permissions, IP camera sources, RS-232, IR, GPIO, firmware updates, and user access.

Q: Is the X2UH-CB an Encoder?
A: No. It is a Video Network Hub / Control Box. It does not encode HDMI video.

Q: Is the X2UH-CB a Decoder?
A: No. It does not decode HDMI video or output HDMI directly to a display.

Q: Does the X2UH-CB have HDMI input or HDMI output?
A: No. HDMI input and output are handled by compatible X2 Series Transceivers or Encoder / Decoder devices.

Q: What products does it control?
A: It controls compatible ToVi X2 Series H.264 / H.265 AV over IP products.

Q: How many LAN ports does it have?
A: It has two 1G LAN ports: VIDEO LAN and CONTROL LAN.

Q: What does VIDEO LAN do?
A: VIDEO LAN connects to the AV over IP network where Encoders and Decoders are located. It also supports PoE.

Q: What does CONTROL LAN do?
A: CONTROL LAN connects to the control network, PC, router, or third-party control system.

Q: Why does it have two LAN ports?
A: The two LAN ports isolate AV traffic from control traffic for better security, stability, and network management.

Q: Can I use it with only VIDEO LAN connected?
A: Yes, for simple systems, VIDEO LAN can be connected with the PC and AV devices on the same switch while CONTROL LAN remains unconnected.

Q: Can I connect only CONTROL LAN and leave VIDEO LAN unconnected?
A: No. The manual states that only Control LAN connected while Video LAN is floating is not allowed.

Q: Does VIDEO LAN support PoE?
A: Yes. VIDEO LAN supports PoE.

Q: What PoE standard does it support?
A: It supports 802.3af PD.

Q: Do I need the power adapter when using PoE?
A: No. If VIDEO LAN is connected to a PoE switch, the DC power adapter is not required.

Q: What power adapter is included?
A: The package includes a 12V/2.5A locking power adapter.

Q: What is the power consumption?
A: The manual lists power consumption as 6.84W.

Q: What is the default WebGUI URL?
A: The default URL is http://controller.local.

Q: What is the default CONTROL LAN IP address without a router?
A: The default CONTROL LAN IP address without a router is 192.168.6.100.

Q: What is the default VIDEO LAN IP address?
A: The default VIDEO LAN IP address is 169.254.8.100.

Q: What is the initial username and password?
A: The initial username is admin and the initial password is admin.

Q: Do I need to change the password on first login?
A: Yes. On first login, the manual requires setting a new eight-digit password using letters or numbers.

Q: Does it support HTTPS and SSH?
A: Yes. HTTPS and SSH are supported for secure access.

Q: Does it support Telnet and API commands?
A: Yes. The controller supports WebGUI, Telnet, SSH, and API command control depending on system configuration.

Q: Does it support matrix switching?
A: Yes. Matrix switching is supported using drag-and-drop source routing.

Q: Can it route one source to multiple displays?
A: Yes. One source can be dragged to multiple Decoders or to all Decoders.

Q: Does it support IP camera sources?
A: Yes. IP camera devices can be added and used as source inputs.

Q: Does it support video walls?
A: Yes. It supports video wall creation, decoder assignment, bezel adjustment, presets, windowing, background images, marquee, and audio mixing.

Q: What video wall size is supported?
A: The manual notes layouts from 1x2 up to 9x9.

Q: How many windows are supported on the video wall canvas?
A: Up to 36 windows are supported.

Q: Can one Decoder be assigned to multiple video walls?
A: No. A Decoder can only be assigned to one video wall.

Q: Does it support multiview?
A: Yes. Multiview is created by using a 1x1 video wall as the multiview canvas.

Q: Does it support marquee text on video walls?
A: Yes. Marquee creation and display are supported.

Q: Does it support background images?
A: Yes. Background full images are supported using the correct PNG format and matching the current video wall resolution.

Q: Does it support audio mixing?
A: Yes. Video wall audio mixing is supported with up to 8 audio sources including IPC sources.

Q: Does it support KVM control?
A: Yes. It supports KVM permissions, KVM OSD login, mouse roaming, video push, and multi-screen KVM operation with compatible devices.

Q: How do I open the KVM menu?
A: Rotate the mouse clockwise three times or press Ctrl + Win.

Q: How do I hide the KVM menu?
A: Rotate the mouse counterclockwise three times or press Esc.

Q: Does it support user accounts?
A: Yes. User accounts can be created with limited Encoder, Decoder, video wall, and KVM permissions.

Q: What username length is required?
A: Usernames require 6 to 12 characters.

Q: What password length is required for user accounts?
A: Passwords require 6 to 8 characters.

Q: Are special characters supported in usernames or passwords?
A: No. Special characters are not supported.

Q: Does it support RS-232?
A: Yes. It includes two RS-232 ports.

Q: What are the default RS-232 settings?
A: The default settings are 57600 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, and no parity.

Q: Does it support IR control?
A: Yes. It has IR IN and IR OUT ports.

Q: What is the IR IN level?
A: IR IN is 12V.

Q: What is the IR OUT level?
A: IR OUT is 5V.

Q: Does it support GPIO?
A: Yes. It has four GPIO output channels with selectable 5V or 12V output.

Q: What is the VOUT power support?
A: The VOUT power supply supports up to 12V / 0.5A.

Q: Can the X2UH-CB be rack mounted?
A: Yes. It supports 6U V2 rack mounting and 1U V2 rack mounting.

Q: How many units can be mounted in a 6U V2 rack?
A: The manual shows 6, 8, or 10 units can be installed vertically depending on the rack option.

Q: How many units are recommended for 1U V2 rack mounting?
A: The manual advises installing 2 units horizontally.

Q: What should I do if the WebGUI does not open?
A: Check whether the PC is on the correct network segment, try http://controller.local, verify the CONTROL LAN or VIDEO LAN IP address, confirm power, check the LAN cable, and confirm VIDEO LAN is connected to the AV network.

Q: What should I do if devices are not discovered?
A: Check VIDEO LAN, the network switch, IP mode, device power, PoE, network segments, and use Search Device or Search Device Via Wizard in the WebGUI.

Q: Does the X2UH-CB need external power?

A: It can be powered by PoE through VIDEO LAN or by the included 12V/2.5A locking power adapter.