X1 4G Bonding Encoder

Welcome to the CND Live X1. This manual guides you through the installation, configuration, and operation of your professional bonding encoder.

1. Product Overview

1.1 Introduction

The X1 4G Bonding Encoder is a high-performance device designed for mission-critical video transmission. Unlike standard encoders, the X1 utilizes Network Bonding technology to aggregate multiple internet connections, ensuring stable live streaming even in challenging outdoor environments.

1.2 Key Features

Multi-Source Input: Supports HDMI (Consumer) and SDI (Professional) video sources.
Network Bonding: Aggregates up to 7 network links (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB Tethering, and 3x Internal 4G Modems).
Professional Protocols: Full support for NDI|HX, SRT, RTMP, RTSP, and TS-UDP.
Built-in Touchscreen: A 5.5-inch LCD for monitoring and control without a computer.
Intercom: Real-time bidirectional voice communication with the studio via CNDLive Manager.

💡 Knowledge Base: What is “Bonding”?

Bonding (Aggregation) acts like combining multiple narrow water pipes into one large pipeline. The X1 splits your video data across 4G Cellular, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet simultaneously. If one connection becomes unstable or disconnects, the others instantly take over the load, preventing stream buffering or dropouts.

1.3 Interface Description

Component	Description
Video Inputs	HDMI: Connect cameras, laptops, or switchers. SDI: Connect professional broadcast cameras (BNC).
Audio	Line In (3.5mm): For external microphones or mixers. USB Headset: For Intercom communication.
Network	LAN: Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45). SIM Slots: 3 physical slots (Supports 2 SIMs per slot, active switching).
Power	Type-C: 12V/1A Power Input.
Mounting	Cold Shoe mounts (Top/Bottom) for camera rigs.

2. Installation & Connection

2.1 Power On

Connect the provided Type-C Power Adapter (12V/1A) to the power port (6). Press the Power Button (2) on the back panel to boot the device.

2.2 Connect Video Source

HDMI: Use for DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, or PC output.
SDI: Use for professional camcorders for a locking connection.

⚠️ Important: Input Selection

The device does not automatically switch inputs during operation. You must select HDMI or SDI via the LCD menu or Web Dashboard to match your connected cable.

2.3 Connect Network

You can use a single connection or combine them for bonding:

Wired: Connect an Ethernet cable to the LAN port.
4G/LTE: Insert Nano-SIM cards into the side slots.
- Note: Ensure the chip faces the correct direction. You may insert up to 6 SIMs (Slot 1A/1B, 2A/2B, 3A/3B) and switch between them in the software.
Wi-Fi: Configure via the LCD touch screen.

3. LCD Screen Operation

The X1 is designed for full control without a PC.

3.1 First Boot & Network

Upon first startup, the “Welcome” screen displays the device’s IP Address (e.g., 192.168.0.56).

Wired IP: Displayed automatically if LAN is connected.
Wireless: Tap to select a Wi-Fi hotspot and enter the password.

3.2 Main Dashboard (Preview)

Displays the real-time video feed and status icons:

CNDLive Manager: Green dot indicates connection to the bonding cloud.
Traffic: Real-time Upload (↑) and Download (↓) speeds.
REC: Tap to start recording to SD Card/USB.
Lock: Prevents accidental touches.
Advanced: Tap to enter the Network Topology View.

3.3 Control Center (Swipe Down)

Swipe down from the top of the screen to access quick settings:

Encoding: Change Resolution (1080p/720p) and Bitrate.
Input Source: Toggle between HDMI and SDI.
Network Cards: Tap active SIM icons to view signal strength or Configure APN.
Fan Control: Adjust cooling (Auto/Low/High).
Screen: Adjust brightness and rotation.

3.4 Advanced View

Accessed via the “Advanced” button, this professional view offers:

Traffic Graph: A line chart visualizing the load balancing across all bonded links (LAN, Wi-Fi, 4G).
Stream Matrix: View and control push streams sent from the cloud platform.
Log: View system warnings or errors for troubleshooting.

4. Web Management & Configuration

For advanced setup, access the device via a web browser.

Login Steps:

Ensure your computer is on the same network as the X1.
Type the IP Address displayed on the LCD into your browser (Chrome recommended).
Default Login: Username: admin / Password: admin.

4.1 Encoding Settings

Configure video compression and quality.

Resolution: Up to 4K (HDMI) or 1080p60 (SDI).
Bitrate Control:
- CBR (Constant Bitrate): Recommended for Streaming. Maintains a steady data rate to prevent buffering.
- VBR (Variable Bitrate): Recommended for Recording. Saves storage during static scenes.
Encoding Format:
- H.264: Best compatibility (YouTube/Facebook).
- H.265 (HEVC): Best quality at low bandwidth (requires compatible player).

4.2 Network & Bonding

Navigate to Network or click the configuration gear on the Dashboard.

Server Address: Enter the IP of your CNDLive Manager server.
Link Selection: Check the boxes for the interfaces you want to bond (e.g., LAN1 + Wi-Fi + SIM1 + SIM2).
APN Settings: If a 4G SIM card shows signal but no data, manually enter the APN (Access Point Name) provided by your carrier here.

4.3 Stream Services (Advanced Tab)

Add destination servers for your video.

RTMP: Standard protocol for YouTube Live, Twitch, Facebook.
SRT: (Secure Reliable Transport) Ideal for point-to-point transmission over unstable public internet. Recovers lost packets to prevent glitching.
NDI|HX: Allows the X1 to be discovered as a local network camera by software like vMix, OBS, or TriCaster. No capture card needed.

4.4 Intercom (Voice Talkback)

Enable real-time voice communication with the studio.

Hardware: Connect a USB headset to the device.
Settings: Click the “Intercom” icon on the Web Dashboard.
- Input/Output Volume: Adjust the mic and headphone levels.
- Quality: Set audio transmission quality (Low/Medium/High).

4.5 Recording & Storage

Storage Device: Select your MicroSD card or USB Drive.
Format:
- TS: Most robust. File remains playable even if power is lost during recording.
- MP4: Standard format, easy to edit.
Segmentation: Automatically split files every 30 or 60 minutes.

5. System & Maintenance

5.1 OSD (On-Screen Display)

Overlay watermarks or information on your stream.

Images: Upload a PNG logo (Keep file size small).
Text: Add “Live” indicators or Time/Date stamps.

5.2 Firmware Upgrade

Go to Settings > System.

Download the .bin firmware file from the CND Live website.
Click Select File and upload.
Click Upgrade. Do not power off the device until it reboots.

5.3 Factory Reset

Restores all settings to default.

Method 1 (Web): Settings > System > Factory Reset.
Method 2 (Hardware): Long press the CNDLive Logo on the LCD screen for 10 seconds.

6. Troubleshooting

Q: The screen shows a blue “No Signal” image.

A: Check your physical cable connections. Then, verify that the Input Source setting (HDMI vs. SDI) in the Control Center matches your connection.

Q: Streaming is laggy or buffering.

A: Check the Traffic Graph on the LCD Advanced view.

Is your total Upload Speed higher than your Encoding Bitrate?

Are multiple 4G links active? If not, check SIM cards and APN settings.

Try switching bitrate control to CBR and lowering the bitrate (e.g., to 3000 Kbps).

Q: I cannot login to the Web Page.

A: Ensure your computer is on the same network segment as the X1. If connecting directly via Ethernet cable, set your computer’s IP to a static address in the same range (e.g., 192.168.0.100).

Q: Audio is out of sync.

A: Go to Encoding > Audio in the Web UI. Use the Audio Offset slider to add delay (+/- ms) until the audio matches the video.