Makcu Bridge
Makcu Bridge connects Helios output to a supported Makcu device. The device can operate in either Controller or Keyboard & Mouse output mode.
Panel
- Device list and refresh
- Connection and firmware readiness
- Output Mode: Controller or Keyboard & Mouse
- Restart Bridge
- Device CPU usage and USB-port status
The selected output mode is saved on the device.
Controller Mode
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Connect the Makcu device and select it. |
| 2 | Choose Controller. |
| 3 | Start Makcu Bridge and confirm it is ready. |
| 4 | Start the input, GPC 3, or CV tools that produce controller output. |
Keyboard & Mouse Mode
In Keyboard & Mouse mode, the Makcu USB1 output presents standard keyboard and mouse devices to the destination.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Select Keyboard & Mouse and wait while the USB output mode switches. |
| 2 | Allow USB1 to disconnect and reappear cleanly on the destination. Reconnect that cable if the destination does not detect the new mode. |
| 3 | Start Makcu Bridge. |
| 4 | For direct passthrough, enable Developer Mode and start KBM Input with Write to KBM Output. Otherwise start the GPC 3 or other workflow that produces keyboard/mouse output. |
Wait for the panel to finish Switching USB output mode before starting the output workflow.
Firmware and Driver Actions
Use Update Firmware, Flash Firmware, or Repair only when the panel offers that action. Follow each on-screen USB instruction exactly and do not unplug a side while it is flashing.
Firmware flashing requires a valid Python environment and may prompt Helios to install its flashing support. If Windows reports a serial-driver repair requirement, use the panel's Repair action and restart Windows if requested.
After an update, leave both sides connected while Helios waits for them to restart and verifies the installed firmware. Treat the update as complete only after the panel confirms verification on both LEFT and RIGHT.
Troubleshooting
- No device: reconnect it directly, wait for Windows detection, then refresh.
- Waiting/empty port: check the three USB connections shown under USB Ports.
- Output type did not change: wait for switching to finish, then reconnect USB1 so the destination enumerates the selected device type.
- Controller output is wrong: select Controller mode, verify the controller/console connection, and restart the bridge.
- Keyboard or mouse does not move: select Keyboard & Mouse mode and confirm the source writes to KBM Output.
- Update unavailable: reconnect the requested USB side and follow the panel status.
- Verification fails after flashing: reconnect both sides, refresh, and retry the offered update or repair action.