VexRAT Setup Guide

Install & run

1. 1Install Node.js (one-time)VexRAT runs on Node.js, which isn't bundled to keep the download small. Install the Node.js LTS release (v20.6 or newer). Verify with node --version in Terminal.
2. 2Download and install VexRATMac: download the disk image, open it, and drag VexRAT into the Applications folder (Apple Silicon Macs only). Windows: download the zip and unzip it anywhere — e.g. C:\VexRAT or the Desktop.
3. 3First launch: get past the security promptVexRAT isn't code-signed, so the first launch needs one extra click. Mac: right-click VexRAT.app → Open → Open (a plain double-click is blocked by Gatekeeper). Windows: double-click VexRAT.bat; if SmartScreen warns you, click More info → Run anyway. Only needed once.
4. 4The launcher opens in your browserVexRAT starts a local server and opens the launcher at http://localhost:3000/launcher. If it doesn't open automatically, browse there yourself.
5. 5Point it at Tournament ManagerIn the launcher, select the VEX Tournament Manager database file (tournament.db) for the running event, choose the event and game type, and start the sync. Scores flow to the live scoreboards automatically from then on.
6. 6Check the public scoreboardOpen VEX Live Results — your event should appear within seconds, updating live as matches are scored.

Troubleshooting

• “VexRAT can't be opened” — you double-clicked on first launch. Right-click the app → Open → Open instead (one-time).
• Launcher never opens — check Node.js is installed (node --version ≥ 20.6) and try again; the app waits for the local server before opening the browser.
• App crashes instantly on an Intel Mac — the Apple Silicon build doesn't run on Intel; use the Intel build when available.
• Windows: a black window flashes and closes — Node.js is missing or older than 20.6. Install the LTS from nodejs.org, then run VexRAT.bat again. The log lives at %LOCALAPPDATA%\VexRAT\VexRAT.log.
• Windows: stopping the server — double-click Stop-VexRAT.bat, or close the minimized “VexRAT Server” window.
• Scores not appearing on the site — confirm the launcher shows the sync running and the correct event is selected; then check VEX Live Results.