Articles on: Troubleshooting & Support

A Specific Button, Knob, or Fader Isn't Working

It can be frustrating when a single component on your controller isn't behaving as expected. The good news is that this is almost always a software configuration issue, not a hardware fault.


This guide will walk you through a systematic process to diagnose and fix the problem, starting with your Kilowhat configuration and moving to your music software.




Step 1: Confirm the Hardware is Sending a Signal


First, let's verify that the physical component is working correctly and sending a signal. We'll use our configuration software, Kilowhat, to do this.


  1. Connect your controller directly to your computer's USB port (avoiding hubs for now) and close any other music or MIDI software.
  2. Open the Kilowhat desktop app.
  3. Go to the MIDI Monitor tab (usually at the bottom).
  4. Press the button, move the fader, or turn the knob that is causing issues.
  5. Look at the MIDI Monitor:
    • If you see MIDI messages appearing: Great! This confirms the hardware is working perfectly. The problem is in how that MIDI message is being configured or interpreted by your music software. You can proceed to Step 2.
    • If you do NOT see any MIDI messages: This suggests the component might not be configured to send a message at all. See the "Checking the Component's Configuration" section below.




Step 2: Check the Component's Configuration in Kilowhat


If the hardware is sending a signal (or if you suspect it isn't configured at all), the next step is to check its specific settings in Kilowhat.


  1. In Kilowhat, go to the "Settings" tab and make sure "Auto-Select Card" is enabled.
  2. Return to the main view and press or move the problematic component again. Kilowhat should automatically highlight its configuration card.
  3. Review the Output Message Settings for that component:
    • Is a MIDI Message Type assigned? Ensure it's set to "Note," "CC," or your desired message type. If it's set to "None," it will not send any signal.
    • Are the Channel and Parameter correct? Verify that the MIDI Channel (1-16) and Parameter/Note Number are set to the values your software is expecting.
    • Are the Min/Max Values correct? For analog controls like faders and knobs, make sure the range is set correctly (e.g., 0 to 127).
  1. If you make any changes, be sure to click the "Send to Device" button to upload the new configuration to your controller.




Step 3: Check Your Music Software's (DAW) Settings


If Kilowhat confirms the controller is sending the correct MIDI message, but it's still not working in your DAW, the problem is likely in your software's MIDI routing.


  • Check MIDI Preferences: In your DAW's MIDI settings, ensure your Yaeltex controller is enabled as a MIDI input device. The "Remote" option must be turned ON for the controller to control the software interface.
  • MIDI Mapping: Are you using your DAW's manual MIDI mapping mode? If so, check that the mapping is still active and assigned correctly.
  • YURS Script (for Ableton Live): If you are using our YURS script, ensure:
    • The script is correctly installed and selected as a Control Surface in Ableton's preferences.
    • The MIDI message you configured in Kilowhat exactly matches the message required by the YURS MIDI Chart for that specific function.




What if the LED Feedback Isn't Working?


If the control works but its LED doesn't light up, the issue is with the return signal from your software.


  1. Check DAW Output: In your DAW's MIDI preferences, ensure your controller is also enabled as a MIDI Output device.
  2. Check Kilowhat Feedback Settings: On the component's card in Kilowhat, check the "Feedback" section.
    • Ensure the "Source port" is set to receive from USB or MIDI, not "LOCAL."
    • Verify the Message Type, Channel, and Parameter match what your software is sending back.
    • If using YURS, ensure the Feedback Mode is set to "Value to Color" to receive clip color information from Ableton.




Final Check: Power Mode


For optimal performance and full LED brightness, make sure your controller is connected to wall power using the provided 5V external power supply. When powered only by USB, the controller operates in a "low power mode" with dimmed LEDs, which can sometimes affect visual feedback diagnostics.


If you have followed all of these steps and a specific component is still unresponsive, it may indicate a rare hardware issue. Please contact our support team at support@yaeltex.com with your order number and a description of the problem and the steps you've already taken.

Updated on: 26/06/2025

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