Connecting to the RIP Server
When Smart Print Controller (SPC) starts, it automatically:
-
Launches the RIP Server process (
HarlequinDirect.exe) -
Attempts to establish a connection to it
Expected behaviour
After launching SPC:
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The RIP Server starts in the background
-
SPC attempts to connect automatically
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The connection status icon (top-right of the SPC window) indicates the result
Connection status
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🟢 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
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Click on the Support pane
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Select the “Restart RIP Servers” button.
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Wait for reconnection and check the status again.
2. Check the RIP Server log
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Open the same Support panel look for any issues.
Look for:
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Startup errors
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Port or file access issues
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Licensing or configuration problems
3. Verify common issues
Check the following:
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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:
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Click the “Create Support Package”.
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Contact your Helix representative and send the “Support Package”.