Connecting to Harlequin Direct (SPC)

Connecting to the RIP Server

When Smart Print Controller (SPC) starts, it automatically:

1. Launches the RIP Server process (HarlequinDirect.exe)

2. Attempts to establish a connection to it

Expected behaviour

After launching SPC:

• The RIP Server starts in the background

• SPC attempts to connect automatically

• The connection status icon (top-right of the SPC window) indicates the result

Connection status

• 🟢 Green → Connected and ready

• 🔴 Red → Not connected / error

Initial connection may take a short time (typically a few seconds). Wait for the status to update before taking action.

Startup sequence (simplified)

SPC starts
   ↓
HarlequinDirect.exe launched
   ↓
SPC attempts connection
   ↓
Status icon updates (green = success)

Troubleshooting connection issues

If the connection status does not turn green:

1. Restart the RIP Server

• Click on the Support pane

• Select the “Restart RIP Servers” button.

• Wait for reconnection and check the status again.

2. Check the RIP Server log

• Open the same Support panel look for any issues.

Look for:

• Startup errors

• Port or file access issues

• Licensing or configuration problems

3. Verify common issues

Check the following:

• Another RIP Server process is running (HarlequinDirect.exe)

• No firewall is blocking communication

• Required shared folder is accessible

• System resources are sufficient

4. Still not connected?

If the connection cannot be established after these checks:

• Click the “Create Support Package”.

• Contact your Helix representative and send the “Support Package”.