URayCoder UHE265-8 Multi-Channel HDMI Video Encoder User Manual

1. Introduction

The URayCoder UHE265-8 is a multi-channel HDMI video encoder designed for professional live streaming and video transmission applications. This device supports H.265 and H.264 encoding, allowing for efficient video compression while maintaining high quality. It can process up to eight HDMI input signals simultaneously, outputting dual video streams per input using various streaming protocols.

Key features include support for HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), UDP, RTP, MP4, ONVIF, Multicast, Unitcast, and FLV protocols. The encoder offers extensive customization options for video streams, such as resolution, frame rate, bitrate, and the ability to add static text, scrolling text, logos, or time overlays. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your URayCoder UHE265-8 encoder.

Figure 1.1: URayCoder UHE265-8 Encoder highlighting supported protocols (RTMP, RTSP, HTTP, RTMPS, HLS, SRT, Onvif, UDP).

2. Setup

2.1 Package Contents

Before proceeding, ensure all components are present:

• URayCoder UHE265-8 Multi-Channel HDMI Video Encoder
• Power Adapter (DC 12V)
• Ethernet Cable
• User Manual (this document)

2.2 Physical Connections

Follow these steps to connect your encoder:

1. Connect HDMI Sources: Plug up to eight HDMI cables from your video sources (e.g., cameras, set-top boxes, computers) into the HDMI IN ports (HDMI 1 to HDMI 8) on the rear panel of the encoder.
2. Connect Network: Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the LAN port on the encoder and the other end to your router or network switch.
3. Connect Power: Plug the DC 12V power adapter into the DC 12V port on the encoder and then into a power outlet. The device will power on automatically.

Figure 2.1: Rear panel connections of the UHE265-8 encoder.

Figure 2.2: Typical connection diagram for the URayCoder encoder in a live broadcast setup.

2.3 Initial Network Configuration

The encoder requires initial setup via a computer connected to the same local network. Refer to the device's default IP address (usually provided on a label or in a quick start guide) to access its web interface. If the default IP is unknown or conflicts with your network, you may need to use a network scanning tool or consult the manufacturer's support for assistance.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Accessing the Web Interface

Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same network as the encoder. Enter the encoder's IP address into the browser's address bar. You will be prompted to enter login credentials (default username and password are typically 'admin' and 'admin' or similar, refer to your specific device documentation).

3.2 Status Monitoring

Upon logging in, you can view the device's status, including running time, CPU usage, network status, and input signal details for each HDMI port. This section provides real-time information on collected video frames, audio samplerate, and network packet statistics.

Figure 3.1: Web interface status display showing input and main stream information.

3.3 Main Stream Settings

Navigate to the 'Encoder' or 'Main Stream' section to configure video and audio output parameters for each HDMI input. Each input can output dual video streams simultaneously, with independent settings.

• Encoding Type: Select H.264 or H.265.
• Resolution: Choose from various output resolutions (e.g., 1920x1080, 1280x720, 720x576).
• Frame Rate (FPS): Adjust the frames per second (e.g., 30, 60).
• Bitrate (kbit/s): Set the video bitrate. Higher bitrates generally result in better quality but require more bandwidth.
• Bitrate Control: Select Constant Bitrate (CBR) or Variable Bitrate (VBR).
• Streaming Protocols: Enable and configure desired streaming protocols such as RTMP(S) Push, HLS, RTSP, UDP, SRT, and Multicast.

Figure 3.2: Main stream video encoding settings interface.

Figure 3.3: Audio output settings interface, including samplerate, encoder, and bitrate options.

3.4 On-Screen Display (OSD) Settings

The OSD feature allows you to overlay text, scrolling text, logos, or time information onto your video streams. You can configure up to four independent zones for OSD elements.

• Enable/Disable Zone: Activate or deactivate an OSD zone.
• Type: Choose between text, image (logo), scrolling text, or time.
• Position: Set X and Y coordinates for the OSD element.
• Text/Font: Enter text, adjust font size, and select background/text color.

Figure 3.4: On-Screen Display (OSD) configuration interface.

3.5 Logo Upload

To use a custom logo in your OSD, navigate to the 'LOGO Upload' section. You can upload PNG or 24-bit BMP images (less than 500 KByte) with transparency support. Ensure the filename matches the required format (e.g., logo1.bmp, logo2.bmp, logo16.png).

Figure 3.5: Logo upload interface for custom OSD images.

3.6 Advanced Settings

The 'System Advanced Setting' section provides granular control over various encoding and streaming parameters, including deinterlacing, HLS splitter time, SRT latency, TS muxer compatibility, and image enhancement options. Adjust these settings only if you understand their impact on video quality and network performance.

Figure 3.6: System Advanced Settings interface.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Firmware Upgrade

Periodically check for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and access to new features. Navigate to the 'System Upgrade' section in the web interface. Download the latest firmware file from the manufacturer's official support channels. Select the file and click 'Upload'. Do not power off the device during the upgrade process.

Figure 4.1: System Upgrade interface for firmware updates.

4.2 Device Reset

If the device experiences persistent issues, a factory reset may be necessary. This can typically be done via the web interface under 'System' or by pressing a physical reset button (if available) on the device. Refer to the specific instructions in the web interface or quick start guide for your model.

5. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your URayCoder UHE265-8 encoder.

5.1 No Video Output / Black Screen

• Check HDMI Connections: Ensure all HDMI cables are securely connected to both the source and the encoder.
• Verify Source Signal: Confirm that your HDMI source is outputting a valid video signal.
• Encoder Status: Check the 'Status' page in the web interface to see if the encoder is detecting an input signal.
• Resolution/Frame Rate: Ensure the output resolution and frame rate settings are compatible with your receiving device or platform.

5.2 Network Connectivity Issues

• Ethernet Cable: Verify the Ethernet cable is properly connected and undamaged.
• Network Settings: Confirm the encoder's IP address, subnet mask, and gateway settings are correct for your network. If using DHCP, ensure your router is assigning an IP.
• Firewall: Check if any network firewalls are blocking the encoder's communication.
• Router/Switch: Ensure your router or network switch is functioning correctly.

5.3 Streaming Instability or Disconnections

• Bandwidth: Ensure your internet connection has sufficient upload bandwidth for your chosen bitrate and number of streams.
• Bitrate Settings: Try reducing the video bitrate in the 'Main Stream Settings'.
• Server Issues: Verify that the streaming server (e.g., YouTube, Twitch) is operational and receiving your stream.
• Firmware: Ensure your encoder has the latest firmware installed, as updates often include stability improvements.

5.4 Interface Unresponsive / Device Lock-up

• Power Cycle: Disconnect the power adapter, wait 10 seconds, and then reconnect it to perform a hard reset.
• Browser Cache: Clear your web browser's cache and cookies, or try accessing the interface from a different browser or device.
• Firmware Version: Some older firmware versions may have stability issues. Consider updating the firmware if possible.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

All URayCoder video encoders include free lifetime technical support and warranty. For technical assistance, firmware updates, or any inquiries, please contact URayCoder customer support through their official website or the contact information provided with your product.

URayCoder also provides SDK and API documentation, along with CGI control protocol documents, for secondary development and integration into custom systems. Customization options such as shell pattern printing, control panel logo addition, and firmware or hardware function development may also be available upon request.