Frequently Asked Questions:
1.0 Who can use nTop Connect and Connectors?
1.0 Who can use nTop Connect and Connectors?
nTop Connect primarily intends for nTop partners to build and maintain deep integrations between their tools and nTop. However, once a Connector is built, it can be made available to any nTop user, depending on how the partner licenses and distributes it.
2.0 How do I access a Connector for nTop?
2.0 How do I access a Connector for nTop?
Currently, Connectors are distributed by nTop partners rather than directly through nTop. To get access:
- Contact the partner that developed the Connector.
- Some Connectors may be free and listed on the upcoming nTop Dashboard or Support site.
- Connector installation may require an active nTop license.
3.0 Where do the executable files for a Connector need to be located?
3.0 Where do the executable files for a Connector need to be located?
Connector installers typically handle the installation path for executable files. Developers are encouraged to package Connectors in a portable way and include logic to identify and reference the correct executable paths.
4.0 How do I update a Connector?
4.0 How do I update a Connector?
To update a Connector, download and run the latest version of the installer provided by the Connector developer. Connector blocks follow nTop’s versioning system, so older and newer versions can coexist in your project if needed.
5.0 Do Connectors work on Linux?
5.0 Do Connectors work on Linux?
Currently:
- Windows-based Connectors can only run on Windows and are not supported on Linux.
- Linux-compatible Connectors may run in headless mode using nTop Automate for Linux, if the partner provides Linux support.
6.0 How do I find out which Connectors are available?
6.0 How do I find out which Connectors are available?
A public Connector page will be accessible via the nTop Dashboard or Support portal. This directory will allow users to browse available Connectors, learn about their capabilities, and find contact information for the developers.
7.0 Can I develop a Connector for my own internal use?
7.0 Can I develop a Connector for my own internal use?
Yes. If you’re a nTop customer or partner with development resources, you can build private Connectors for internal use. Access to the development SDK and documentation may require enrollment in the nTop Partner Program.
8.0 Are there costs associated with Connectors?
8.0 Are there costs associated with Connectors?
Some Connectors are free, while others may require a separate license from the developer. nTop does not currently resell or bundle Connector licenses.
9.0 Is support provided for Connector issues?
9.0 Is support provided for Connector issues?
Support for Connectors is typically provided by the Connector developer. For installation and compatibility issues related to nTop Connect itself, you can contact nTop Support.
10.0 What kind of applications can be integrated as a Connector?
10.0 What kind of applications can be integrated as a Connector?
Typical use cases include:
- Simulation solvers
- Mesh generation tools
- Manufacturing preparation software
- Data processing scripts
11.0 Can Connectors include UI elements or dialogs?
11.0 Can Connectors include UI elements or dialogs?
Connector blocks are essentially toolkit blocks. Hence, direct access to UI components beyond the toolkit blocks won’t be available.