Connecting to a Computer (USB) & Powering Your Controller

Getting started with your Yaeltex controller is incredibly simple. Our controllers are designed to be "plug-and-play," meaning they work right out of the box without any complicated setup or driver installation.

This guide will explain how to connect your controller to a computer via USB and how to power it correctly.

Connecting for MIDI Communication

The primary way to connect your controller is with a standard USB-C cable. This single connection sends all MIDI data to and from your computer.

1. Locate the USB-C Ports: On the back of your controller, you will find two USB-C ports labeled for communication.
2. Plug in the Cable: Connect a USB-C cable from one of these ports directly to a USB port on your computer.
3. That's It! Your computer's operating system (macOS, Windows, etc.) will automatically recognize your Yaeltex controller as a standard MIDI device. No drivers are needed.

Why Are There Two Communication Ports?

Our controllers feature Dual USB-C Communication Ports for advanced flexibility. This allows you to:

• Connect to two computers simultaneously: Perfect for collaborative B2B DJ sets or complex live performance rigs.
• Connect to a computer and a mobile device: Run your main DAW on your computer while controlling an effects app on an iPad, all from the same controller.

For standard use, you only need to connect one of these ports to your computer.

Powering Your Controller

Your Yaeltex controller has two primary power modes.

Mode 1: USB Bus Power (The Standard Method)

For the vast majority of users, this is the only method you will need.

• How it Works: The same USB-C cable that you use for MIDI communication also provides power to your controller directly from your computer.
• When to Use It: This is the standard, everyday way to power your controller. It's sufficient for most designs and use cases.

Mode 2: External Power (For Maximum LED Brightness)

For users with very large, complex controllers with a high density of LEDs, or for anyone who wants the absolute brightest visual feedback possible, we include a Dedicated USB-C Power Port.

• How it Works: Connect a separate USB-C power supply (like a standard phone or laptop charger) to this dedicated port. This provides extra power specifically for the LEDs.
• When to Use It:
• • If you have a very large controller packed with many LEDs.
  • If you want to ensure maximum, consistent brightness across all LEDs, especially during a live show.
  • If you notice your LEDs seem a bit dim when your controller is plugged into a low-power USB hub or an older computer's USB port.

Using external power is often optional, but it is recommended for the best visual experience on larger devices. The controller will function perfectly for sending MIDI data with just the standard USB bus power.

Summary & Next Steps

• To start: Use one USB-C cable to connect from a communication port on the controller to your computer.
• To get the brightest LEDs: Also connect an external USB-C power supply to the dedicated power port.

Now that your controller is connected and powered on, it's time to learn how to customize its every function.

➡️ **Next Step: How to Configure Your Controller with Kilowhat: A Starter Guide

Updated on: 26/06/2025