Quick Start
This guide gets you from power on to running your first drill in just a few minutes.
If you can see the table clearly and have a keyboard connected, you’re ready.
• Projector powered and focused
• Keyboard connected to ICATS
• Pool table clear of balls
Step-by-step: your first drill
- Power on ICATS
Turn on power to the ICATS system.
After boot, you’ll see the ICATS logo briefly, followed by the last drill you used (or a blank table). - Open the File Manager
Press l (lowercase L) to open the File Manager.
- Navigate to a drill
Use the mouse or trackpad to open:
Drills → ICA → Starter Module - Load the drill
Double-click a drill file (for example, Transition 2_ML.drl).
The layout will immediately appear on the table. - Verify orientation
Make sure the layout is readable from your shooting position.
If needed, flip the layout using h or v. - Start practicing
Place the balls as shown and begin shooting the drill.
Essential shortcuts (memorize these)
| Key | Action |
|---|---|
| l | Open File Manager (load drills) |
| ↑ / ↓ | Next / previous drill in current folder |
| g | Toggle table grid |
| A | Show / hide Aiming Ball |
| b | Blank projector display (shoot without visuals) |
| ? | Show all shortcut keys |
⚠️ Shutdown matters (read this once)
Improper shutdown can corrupt the SD card and prevent ICATS from booting.
To shut down safely:
- Right-click on an empty area of the table
- Click Quit → Shutdown
- Wait ~10 seconds until the green LED stops flashing
- Then remove power (or leave it powered but shut down)
What’s next
- Learn how to load and organize drills in more detail
- Understand the File Manager so you’re not hunting for content
- Get comfortable with shortcut keys (this is how ICATS is meant to be used)
Proceed to Loading Drills or File Manager Basics.