📋 Three connection options: Slate offers Wi-Fi, Peer-to-Peer, and USB cable connections between your Mac and iPad. Each method has specific advantages depending on your setup and performance needs.
Connection Methods Overview
📶 Wi-Fi Connection
📶 Wi-Fi Connection
Automatic connection without cables for flexible positioning.
Advantages:
Complete freedom of movement
No cables required
Automatic device discovery
Considerations:
May have higher latency depending on network environment
Performance varies with router quality and network traffic
🔗 Peer-to-Peer Connection
🔗 Peer-to-Peer Connection
Direct device connection without requiring a router or network.
Advantages:
No router dependency
Works anywhere with Wi-Fi capabilities
Direct device communication
Requirements:
Mac: macOS 10.15 or later
iPad: iPadOS 13 or later
🔌 USB Cable Connection
🔌 USB Cable Connection
Wired connection for maximum stability and lowest latency.
Advantages:
Most stable connection
Reduced interference and lag
No network dependency
Requirements:
Data-capable USB cable (not all cables support data transfer)
Setup Instructions
📶 Wi-Fi Connection Setup
📶 Wi-Fi Connection Setup
Optimal Performance Tips:
Use a modern router (802.11ac or newer)
Connect to 5GHz band when possible
Position closer to router for stronger signal
Reboot router and devices if performance degrades
Setup Steps:
Connect both devices to the same 5GHz Wi-Fi network
Open Astropad Slate on both Mac and iPad
Tap "Connect..." in the top right of the iPad app
Select "Wi-Fi" as your connection method
Wait for automatic connection
Verify connection: Wi-Fi symbol appears in top right corner
🔗 Peer-to-Peer Connection Setup
🔗 Peer-to-Peer Connection Setup
Setup Steps:
Enable Wi-Fi on both Mac and iPad (no network connection needed)
Open Astropad Slate on both devices
Tap "Connect..." in the top right of the iPad app
Select "Peer-to-Peer" as your connection method
Wait for automatic connection
Verify connection: Peer-to-Peer symbol appears in top right corner
🔌 USB Cable Connection Setup
🔌 USB Cable Connection Setup
Setup Steps:
Connect data-capable USB cable between Mac and iPad
Open Astropad Slate on both devices
Automatic connection should occur immediately
Verify connection: USB symbol appears in top right corner
⚠️ Cable compatibility: Ensure your USB cable supports data transfer—charging-only cables will not work.
🔄 Switching methods: You can easily change connection methods by tapping "Connect..." and selecting a different option; no restart required.
Connection Troubleshooting
🔧 Wi-Fi Issues
No connection: Verify both devices are on the same network
Slow performance: Switch to 5GHz band or move closer to router
Intermittent drops: Check for network interference or bandwidth limitations
Router issues: Restart router and reconnect devices
🔧 Peer-to-Peer Issues
Connection fails: Ensure both devices meet minimum OS requirements
Can't find devices: Toggle Wi-Fi off and on for both devices
Slow response: Move devices closer together (within 30 feet)
🔧 USB Issues
No connection: Verify cable supports data transfer
Intermittent connection: Try a different USB cable or port
Mac not recognizing iPad: Check iPad is unlocked and trusted
💡 Tip: Start with USB cable connection to verify everything works properly, then experiment with wireless options based on your specific needs.