Connection Methods - Astropad Slate

Slate Connection Methods

There are three ways to connect your Mac and iPad to use Astropad Slate:

  • Wi-Fi connection
  • Peer-to-Peer connection
  • USB cable connection

Below, you'll find an overview of each connection method and how to set them up.

Wi-Fi Connection

Wi-Fi lets your devices connect automatically without cables. It's flexible but may have more latency depending on your environment.

For best Wi-Fi performance:

  • Use a modern router (802.11ac).
  • Connect to the 5GHz band when possible.
  • Move closer to your router or reposition it for a stronger signal.

If performance slows unexpectedly, try rebooting your router and both devices.

How to set up Wi-Fi connection

  • Make sure both your Mac and iPad are connected to the same 5GHz Wi-Fi network.
  • Open Astropad Slate on both devices.
  • Tap Connect... on the top right of the iPad app.
  • Select Wi-Fi as your connection method.
  • Your devices should automatically connect.
  • You’ll see a Wi-Fi symbol in the top right corner when connected.

Wi-Fi Connection Example

Peer-to-Peer Connection

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) connects your devices directly without a router. Wi-Fi must be enabled on both devices, but they do not need to be on a network.

Requirements:

  • Mac: macOS 10.15 or later
  • iPad: iPadOS 13 or later

How to set up Peer-to-Peer connection

  • Enable Wi-Fi on both Mac and iPad (no need to connect to a network).
  • Open Astropad Slate on both devices.
  • Tap Connect... on the top right of the iPad app.
  • Select Peer-to-Peer as your connection method.
  • Your devices should automatically connect.
  • You’ll see a Peer-to-Peer symbol in the top right corner when connected.

Peer-to-Peer Connection Example

USB Cable Connection

USB connections provide a wired, stable connection, reducing interference and lag. Not all USB cables work—your cable must support data transfer.

How to set up USB connection

  • Connect a data-capable USB cable between your Mac and iPad.
  • Open Astropad Slate on both devices.
  • Your devices should automatically connect via USB.
  • You’ll see a USB symbol in the top right corner when connected.

USB Connection Example

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