Understanding Component Limits & the Hardware Calculator

As you design your dream controller in the Yaeltex Factory, you have immense creative freedom. However, to ensure your controller performs flawlessly, our system is built with a defined structure and capacity. Understanding these limits is key to a successful design.

This guide will explain the component limits of our framework and show you how to use the built-in Hardware Calculator to design with confidence.

Why Do Limits Exist? The Brain of Your Controller

At the heart of every Yaeltex controller is its "brain," the Kilomux motherboard. This powerful processor is responsible for constantly scanning every button, fader, and knob, processing your actions, sending out MIDI messages, and controlling all the LED feedback in real-time.

To guarantee that your controller is always responsive and free of lag, the Kilomux has a specific, maximum number of components it can manage. Think of it like a computer's CPU—it can handle a massive amount of tasks, but not an infinite amount. These limits are in place to ensure a professional and reliable user experience.

The Component Limits

Our framework is designed to handle even the most complex layouts. It supports a maximum capacity of:

• Up to 16 Encoder Elements (for a total of 64 individual encoders)
• Up to 16 Digital Elements (for a total of 256 individual buttons)
• Up to 64 Analog Elements (which can be expanded to 128 individual analog controls like faders, pots, and joysticks)
• Up to 16 Display Elements

It’s important to remember that these limits refer to the "Elements" you add in the Factory. For example, our "4 RGB Encoders" element (EE-41) counts as one Encoder Element toward the limit of 16.

Your Best Friend in the Factory: The Hardware Calculator

You don't need to keep a manual tally of your components. The Factory has a powerful tool that does all the work for you: the Hardware Calculator.

This calculator, usually found on the left side of the Factory interface, provides instant, real-time feedback as you design.

What the Calculator Shows You:

1. Component Usage: For each category (Analog, Digital, Encoders, etc.), the calculator displays your current usage against the maximum allowed (e.g., Encoders: 4 / 16). The numbers will update instantly every time you add or remove an element.

2. Real-Time Price: The calculator also shows you the total price of your controller, which updates with every component you add. This ensures full transparency throughout your design process.

What Happens if I Reach a Limit?

If you try to add an element that would exceed the maximum capacity for that category, the Factory will simply prevent you from adding it. If you see that you've reached a limit (e.g., Digital: 16 / 16), you will need to remove an existing Digital Element before you can add a new one.

This system allows you to experiment freely with your layout, giving you the confidence that any design you can create within the Factory is a design that our hardware can support flawlessly.

By keeping an eye on the Hardware Calculator, you can focus on the creative aspects of your design, knowing that the technical boundaries are being managed for you. Happy designing

Updated on: 26/06/2025