> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.creativeconners.com/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.creativeconners.com/docs/showstopper/spikemark-vantis/2-making-the-connections.md).
# Making The Connections
**Spikemark Vantis is not a stand alone device**. It operates as an extension of the Spikemark system and requires connection to the same network as a Windows PC running Spikemark.
This PC may be part of a rack-mounted system (e.g., alongside Showstopper equipment), integrated within a Spikemark Console, or a separate laptop connected to the network.
Once you have that in hand, setting up Spikemark Vantis is easy. With only a few cable connections and a few IP Addresses you’ll be up and running in no time.
## Hardware Oveview
Before getting started, familiarize yourself with the hardware and controls of Spikemark Vantis. The sections below describe the key components and their functions.
1. **Input Wheel**\
Used to adjust on-screen values during setup. A Bluetooth keyboard (included with Spikemark Vantis) may also be used for data entry.
2. **Jog Paddle**\
Allows for jogging of single or multiple machines in conjunction with the **Enable Button**. Additional details are provided in **Jog Workspace**.
3. **Touch Screen**\
Allows for selection and navigation. Tap items directly with your finger.
4. **E-stop Button**\
Ties Spikemark Vantis back into the Showstopper network, allowing for quick access to Emergency Stops during operation.
5. **Enable Button**\
Used to initiate and allow machine movement. Additional details are provided in [Jog Workspace](/docs/showstopper/spikemark-vantis/4-jog-workspace.md#jog-workspace)
6. **Power Indicator Light**\
Illuminates ***Green*** when the system is powered on.
7. **Pendant Cable Connection**\
Connection point for the Spikemark Vantis cable. This cable supplies both control signals and power to the unit.\
a) Spikemark Vantis includes a [Pendant Adapter Box](#control-connection) for certain configurations. See below for guidance on when it is required.
8. **Power Switch**\
Used to turn the device on and off.\
a) “I” indicates the system is **ON**\
b) “O” indicates the system is **OFF**
## CONNECT SPIKEMARK VANTIS
Now it's time to plug in! There are several different ways to connect **Spikemark Vantis** to your system. The most common are listed with images below:
### **Control Point**
1. Remove the pendant terminator from the **Pendant Output Receptacle** on the **Control Point**, then connect the Spikemark Vantis cable from the **Pendant Cable Connection** on **Spikemark Vantis** to the **Pendant Output Receptacle**.
### **Control Connection**
1. Connect the Spikemark Vantis cable from the **Pendant Adapter Box**, to the **Pendant Cable Connection** on **Spikemark Vantis**.
2. Connect an Ethernet cable from the **Pendant Adapter Box** to a **Control Connection**
3. Connect the Showstopper Accessory Cable from the **Pendant Adapter Box** to the **Control Connection**
### **Temporary Set Ups**
1. Connect the Spikemark Vantis cable from the **Pendant Adapter Box**, to the **Pendant Cable Connection** on **Spikemark Vantis**.
2. Ensure both the computer running Spikemark and the **Showstopper Base** are connected to a network switch.
3. Connect an Ethernet cable from the **Pendant Adapter Box** to the network switch.
4. Connect the Showstopper Accessory Cable from the **Pendant Adapter Box** to an accessory port on the **Showstopper Base**.
{% hint style="warning" %}
### Network Connection Required prior to Spikemark Vantis Startup
All network cables must be connected **before** powering on Spikemark Vantis.
If network connectivity is not detected during startup, Spikemark Vantis will not initialize the configuration screen. See our troubleshooting FAQ for more information.
{% endhint %}
## Accessing Network Settings in Spikemark
Once all connections are complete and power has been applied to the Showstopper Base and Spikemark PC, power on the PC and **Spikemark Vantis**.
Open Spikemark and confirm the Spikemark PC IP address under: **File** -> **Spikemark Options**.
Open **Spikemark Pendant Settings** by either
1. Selecting **Configure** from the **Pendant** dropdown menu, or
2. Selecting **Spikemark Pendant** under **Control Devices** on the right side of the screen.
Confirm your IP Addresses match.
## Accessing Network Settings in Spikemark Vantis
After boot-up, the network configuration screen will appear.
Confirm that the IP addresses match between Spikemark Vantis and the Spikemark PC.
To modify values on **Spikemark Vantis**:
1. Select the field you want to edit using the **touchscreen**
2. Then adjust the value using the **Input Wheel**, or\
use the **bluetooth keyboard** to enter the value directly.
Ensure all network settings are correct to maintain proper system communication.
***
If you need help setting your computer’s IP address, refer to the network setup guide:
{% content-ref url="/pages/-Mhn8RB9Fckaggt3dzfX" %}
[Setting Computer IP Address](/docs/spikemark/ip-address-and-network-connection/setting-computer-ip-address.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
***
## Connect to Spikemark Vantis
Once the IP addresses match:
1. Select Enable in the **Spikemark Pendant Settings** window on the PC
2. Press Connect on the **Spikemark Vantis** screen
When connected, the display will transition from the network configuration screen to the operational interface, starting with the **Jog Workspace**.
---
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