Zowietek ZowieBox 4K HDMI NDI HX3 Video Encoder/Decoder User Manual

1. Introducció

This manual provides instructions for the Zowietek ZowieBox 4K HDMI NDI HX3 Video Encoder/Decoder. This device is designed for converting HDMI signals to NDI|HX3/HX2/HX, UVC to HDMI, and supporting various streaming protocols for live broadcasting and video distribution. It functions as both an encoder and a decoder, though not simultaneously.

2. Què hi ha a la caixa

• ZowieBox Unit
• Power Supply (for U.S. regions)
• Muntatge de sabates fredes
• Guia d'inici ràpid

Image: ZowieBox package contents, showing the main unit, power adapter, cold shoe, and user manual.

3. Producte acabatview

3.1. Característiques clau

• Disseny compacte: The ZowieBox is designed to be smaller than a typical smartphone, featuring a tally light and an LCD screen for displaying streaming status.
• 4K Capture & Passthrough: Supports 4K capture with zero-lag passthrough for console gameplay. The IP stream can be decoded into a 4K HDMI signal.
• Standalone Streaming: Enables PC-free live game streaming without impacting the gaming experience.
• NDI|HX3 Conversion: Encodes HDMI signals to NDI|HX3/HX2/HX. Certified NDI technology ensures low-delay, high-definition streaming for platforms like OBS/vMix. Note: The device operates as either an encoder or a decoder, not both simultaneously. It does not support encoding/decoding full NDI signals.
• UVC to HDMI: Converts UVC signals up to 4K@30fps & 1080p@60fps to HDMI, expanding compatibility with webcam devices. USB capture card functionality is not currently supported.
• Web Configuració de la IU: Adjustable settings via a web user interface accessible from PC, phone, or tablet. Controls include PTZ cameras, Tally light, video/audio, OSD, work mode, stream, network, and system settings. The Web UI also provides a preview video and dashboard.
• HDMI Extender Functionality: Two ZowieBoxes can be used for point-to-point HDMI signal transmission over a network (e.g., LAN), with one acting as an encoder/transmitter and the other as a decoder/receiver.
• 4K HDMI Signal Input: When accepting a 4Kp60 HDMI signal, it can loop out 4Kp60 and stream at 1080p60. For a 4Kp30 HDMI signal, it can loop out 4Kp30 and stream at 4Kp30.
• Flexible Powering: Supports Power over Ethernet (PoE) up to 100 meters or USB-C chargers (e.g., power banks, DC to USB-C adapters). It can also power external equipment like PTZ cameras via DC out and can be mounted on SLR cameras or standard tripods.
• NDI Substream & OBS Dock: NDI substream conversion enhances compatibility with NDI directing systems. The Web UI can be integrated into OBS for convenient configuration.

Imatge: Més deview of ZowieBox features and capabilities.

3.2. Ports i indicadors

Image: Labeled diagram of the ZowieBox ports and indicators.

• Entrada HDMI: Es connecta a la font de vídeo.
• HDMI Out (Loopout): Connects to a display for local monitoring.
• LAN/PoE: Ethernet port for network connection and Power over Ethernet.
• USB tipus C: Entrada d'alimentació per al dispositiu.
• Sortida DC: Provides power to external devices like PTZ cameras.
• USB tipus A: For storage (TF card, USB flash drive) or expansion.
• Entrada/Sortida d'àudio: 3.5mm jacks for external audio input and output.
• Pantalla LCD: Displays device status, IP address, and streaming information.
• Llum de comptabilitat: Indicates streaming status (Blue: streaming start process, Red: on air, Green: preview només).

4. Configuració

4.1. Connexions físiques

1. Connect your HDMI video source (e.g., camera, game console) to the Entrada HDMI port.
2. Connect an HDMI display (e.g., monitor, TV) to the HDMI Out (Loopout) port for local monitoring.
3. For network connectivity and/or PoE, connect an Ethernet cable from your network switch/router to the LAN/PoE port.
4. If not using PoE, connect the provided USB-C power adapter to the USB tipus C port.
5. Optionally, connect external audio devices to the Entrada d'àudio i Sortida d'àudio ports.
6. Optionally, insert a TF card or USB flash drive into the respective slots for local recording.

4.2. Initial Network Configuration (Web IU)

To access the device's web user interface for configuration:

1. Ensure the ZowieBox is powered on and connected to your network via the LAN port.
2. The LCD screen will display the device's IP address. Note this IP address.
3. En un ordinador connectat a la mateixa xarxa, obriu un web browser and enter the noted IP address into the address bar.
4. Log in using the default credentials (refer to the Quick Start Guide for details).
5. El Web UI provides access to all settings, including video/audio parameters, streaming protocols, network settings, and system updates.

Image: ZowieBox Web UI dashboard for status preview and multi-control.

5. Modes de funcionament

5.1. Encoder Mode (Live Streaming)

In encoder mode, the ZowieBox converts an HDMI input signal into a network stream using protocols like NDI|HX3, SRT, RTMP(S), or RTSP. This stream can then be sent to various live streaming platforms (e.g., YouTube, Twitch, Facebook Live) or NDI production systems (e.g., OBS, vMix).

1. Accedeix al Web UI and navigate to the Encoder settings.
2. Select the desired encoding parameters (resolution, bitrate, frame rate).
3. Choose the streaming protocol (e.g., RTMP) and enter the server URL and stream key provided by your streaming platform.
4. Enable the stream. The Tally light will indicate the streaming status.

Image: Gameplay streaming connection setup.

5.2. Decoder Mode

In decoder mode, the ZowieBox receives a network stream (e.g., NDI|HX3, SRT, RTMP, RTSP) and converts it back to an HDMI signal for display on a monitor or TV.

1. Accedeix al Web UI and switch the device to Decoder mode.
2. Introduïu el URL or IP address of the incoming stream.
3. Ensure your display is connected to the HDMI Out port.
4. The decoded video will appear on the connected display.

Image: ZowieBox as NDI converter and 4K HDMI decoder.

5.3. UVC to HDMI/NDI

The ZowieBox can convert UVC (USB Video Class) signals from webcams or other UVC-compatible devices into HDMI or NDI signals.

1. Connect your UVC camera to the USB Type-A port (or via a USB hub for multiple cameras).
2. En el Web UI, navigate to the Decoder > UVC section.
3. Activa el webcam and select the appropriate H.264 compatible parameters.
4. The output can be directed to HDMI or converted to NDI signals.

Image: UVC to HDMI and UVC to NDI conversion setup.

5.4. HDMI Extender

For extending HDMI signals over a network, use two ZowieBox units.

1. Configure one ZowieBox as an encoder (transmitter) and connect your HDMI source.
2. Configure the second ZowieBox as a decoder (receiver) and connect your HDMI display.
3. Ensure both units are connected to the same network (LAN or Internet).
4. The video signal will be transmitted from the encoder to the decoder over the network.

6. Manteniment

• Neteja: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Avoid liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Actualitzacions de firmware: Periodically check the Zowietek website for firmware updates. Updates can improve performance, add features, or resolve issues. Firmware updates are typically performed via the Web IU.
• Emmagatzematge: Guardeu el dispositiu en un lloc fresc i sec quan no l'utilitzeu.

7. Solució De Problemes

• Sense energia: Ensure the USB-C power adapter is securely connected or that the Ethernet cable is connected to a PoE-enabled switch. Check the power indicator light.
• Sense sortida de vídeo: Verify all HDMI cables are correctly connected. Check the input source and display settings. Ensure the device is in the correct operating mode (encoder/decoder).
• Sense connexió de xarxa: Check the Ethernet cable connection. Verify network settings in the Web UI. Ensure the IP address is correctly configured (DHCP or static).
• Audio/Video Sync Issues: Some users have reported audio/video synchronization issues, particularly when converting between different frame rates (e.g., 59.94fps to 60fps) or during prolonged RTMP streaming. Ensure your input and output frame rates are consistent where possible. Check for the latest firmware updates, as these issues may be addressed in newer versions.
• Web UI Not Accessible: Confirm the device's IP address from the LCD screen. Ensure your computer is on the same network subnet. Try restarting the device.
• Problemes de transmissió en temps real: Verify streaming platform settings (URL, stream key). Check network bandwidth and stability. Ensure the correct protocol is selected in the Web IU.

8. Especificacions

9. Vídeo oficial del producte

10. Garantia i Suport

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Zowietek website or contact Zowietek customer service directly. Details are typically provided in the product packaging or on the manufacturer's support pages.