Getting Started with Conflux Core Space: A Developer's Guide to Sending Transactions

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Conflux Core Space is a high-performance blockchain ecosystem designed for scalable decentralized applications. For developers looking to build or interact with this network, understanding how to send transactions using the correct tools is essential. Unlike Ethereum-based blockchains, Conflux requires its own software development kit (SDK) due to protocol differences. This guide walks you through the process of setting up and using js-conflux-sdk—the official JavaScript SDK for interacting with the Conflux blockchain.

Whether you're deploying smart contracts, transferring tokens, or building dApps, this tutorial provides a clear path to get started quickly and securely on the Conflux network.

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What Is js-conflux-sdk?

js-conflux-sdk is a comprehensive JavaScript library that enables developers to interact with Conflux Core Space via HTTP or WebSocket connections. It supports operations such as querying account balances, sending transactions, deploying contracts, and reading blockchain data—similar in purpose to Ethereum’s web3.js, but tailored specifically for Conflux's unique architecture.

This SDK is ideal for both backend services and frontend dApp integrations, offering robust methods for connecting to local or remote Conflux nodes.

Key Features:

Prerequisites for Development

Before diving into code, ensure your development environment meets the following requirements:

  1. Node.js Installed: The SDK runs on Node.js, so make sure you have it installed (version 14 or higher recommended).
  2. Access to a Conflux Node: Use the public testnet RPC endpoint: https://test.confluxrpc.com. Alternatively, connect to a private node.
  3. Testnet CFX Tokens: You’ll need some testnet CFX to cover gas fees. Get them from the Conflux Core Faucet.
  4. Private Key: Export your private key from a compatible wallet like Fluent Wallet. Never use mainnet keys on test environments.
🔐 Security Tip: Always keep your private keys secure. Never commit them to version control or expose them in client-side code.

Installing js-conflux-sdk

To install the SDK, run the following command in your project directory:

npm install js-conflux-sdk

Once installed, you can begin integrating Conflux functionality into your application.

Setting Up Your Conflux Client

Start by importing the Conflux class and initializing a client instance connected to the Conflux testnet.

const { Conflux } = require('js-conflux-sdk');

const cfxClient = new Conflux({
  url: 'https://test.confluxrpc.com',
  networkId: 1,
  // logger: console, // Uncomment for debugging
});

Here, url points to the Conflux testnet node, and networkId: 1 specifies the testnet environment. You can replace the URL with any valid Conflux node endpoint.

Adding Your Private Key

To sign transactions, add your private key to the wallet module:

const PRIVATE_KEY = 'your-private-key-here';
const account = cfxClient.wallet.addPrivateKey(PRIVATE_KEY);
console.log("Account Address: ", account.address);

The account object now holds your address and private key, enabling transaction signing.

Understanding Conflux Addresses

Conflux uses base32-encoded addresses as defined by CIP-37, which differ from Ethereum’s hexadecimal format. These addresses include network prefixes:

This design prevents accidental transfers between networks. Learn more about address formats here.

Checking Account Balance

Use the getBalance method to retrieve an account’s balance in Drip (the smallest unit of CFX):

const { Drip } = require('js-conflux-sdk');

async function checkBalance() {
  const balance = await cfxClient.cfx.getBalance(account.address);
  console.log(`Balance: ${new Drip(balance).toCFX()} CFX`);
}

checkBalance().catch(e => console.error(e));

You can explore additional blockchain query methods in the SDK API Reference and Core RPC Documentation.

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Sending a Transaction

Once your wallet is set up, you can send CFX or tokens between accounts.

Step 1: Define Transaction Parameters

const receiver = 'cfxtest:aarc9abycue0hhzgyrr53m6cxedgccrmmy8m50bu1p';

let txParams = {
  from: account,
  to: receiver,
  value: Drip.fromCFX(0.125),
};

Fields explained:

Step 2: Send and Monitor the Transaction

async function sendTransaction() {
  const txHash = await cfxClient.cfx.sendTransaction(txParams);
  console.log('Transaction Hash:', txHash);

  // Wait for mining
  const txData = await txHash.mined();
  console.log('Transaction Data:', txData);

  // Wait for execution
  const txReceipt = await txHash.executed();
  console.log('Transaction Receipt:', txReceipt);
}

sendTransaction().catch(e => console.error(e));

After sending, monitor status using .mined() and .executed(), which internally call getTransactionByHash and getTransactionReceipt. You can also track transactions on ConfluxScan.

Common Errors and Troubleshooting

Insufficient Balance

If your account lacks enough CFX to cover gas fees, you'll see:

Insufficient balance

or

Balance is not enough to pay transaction

Solution: Request testnet CFX from the Conflux Faucet and retry.

Invalid Address Format

Using Ethereum-style hex addresses will fail. Always use base32-encoded Conflux addresses.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use web3.js with Conflux?
A: No. Conflux uses a different consensus mechanism and address format, so Ethereum SDKs like web3.js or ethers.js are incompatible. Use js-conflux-sdk instead.

Q: Where can I find documentation for js-conflux-sdk?
A: Visit the official js-conflux-sdk documentation for full API references and examples.

Q: How do I convert between CFX and Drip?
A: Use the built-in Drip utility: Drip.fromCFX(1) returns 1,000,000,000,000,000,000 Drip.

Q: Is there a frontend library for dApp development?
A: Yes. Consider using use-wallet, a React/Vue3-compatible hook library for seamless wallet integration.

Q: What should I do if my transaction isn't confirming?
A: Check if you have sufficient balance and valid nonce settings. Also verify network connectivity and node health.

Q: Can I run my own Conflux node?
A: Absolutely. Running a local node gives you full control and improved reliability. Refer to the official setup guides for instructions.


Additional Resources

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Core Keywords:

js-conflux-sdk, Conflux Core Space, send transaction, blockchain development, JavaScript SDK, CFX balance, private key, Drip unit