An Electra One project and preset are essential components of the Electra One system. The Electra One project is created and managed using the Electra One web editor, serving as a dedicated workspace for designing custom templates to control MIDI devices or sets of devices. Within a project, users can define control mappings, configure display ranges, and arrange the layout of controls. It is primarily used for creating and editing presets. On the other hand, an Electra One preset is the final result of designing and configuring a project. It represents a specific configuration containing all the control mappings, display ranges, and other settings defined within the project. Presets are generated within the project and can be exported and uploaded to the Electra One hardware controller.

When connected to a computer, the Electra One controller can be used in conjunction with the Electra One web editor and other software applications. This setup allows users to create, edit, and manage projects within the web editor, design presets, and upload them to the controller. The computer provides power to the controller via the USB connection, and users can send and receive MIDI messages between the controller and the computer, enabling real-time control and synchronization with MIDI devices or software running on the computer.

In standalone mode, the Electra One controller operates independently from the computer. Once a preset is stored in the hardware controller, it can be used without the need for a continuous computer connection. The USB connection primarily serves as a power supply for the controller. In standalone mode, the controller can directly send and receive MIDI messages to and from external MIDI devices, such as synthesizers, samplers, or hardware effects units Users can interact with their MIDI setup using the controls on the Electra One controller, as the preset data stored within it defines the behavior and mapping of controls.

To summarize, an Electra One project is a dedicated workspace for designing custom templates, while a preset represents the final configuration data that is uploaded to the hardware controller. When connected to a computer, the Electra One controller allows for real-time control and synchronization with MIDI devices or software. In standalone mode, the controller functions independently, providing control over MIDI devices without the need for continuous computer connectivity.