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# Using Sparks in ConnectFX

There are two Sparks nodes that you can access from ConnectFX: the Sparks node and the Sparks Load node.

The Sparks node allows you to load Sparks Plug-ins by accessing the Sparks file browser. The number of inputs and bit depth that a Sparks node accepts depends on the Sparks plug-in. A Sparks node has light grey source tabs, since each Sparks plug-in varies in the type of clip it uses

When working with a Sparks plug-in, missing media in front clips set to No Media can be converted into black frames while they are in use. When missing media is output from this node, it returns to a No Media state, regardless of whether it was set to display differently in the node.

NoteWhen you attempt to use a Sparks plug-in, the error message "SPARK IS NOT SUPPORTED" may appear. This means the selected Sparks plug-in cannot be used with ConnectFX. Contact the company that developed the Sparks plug-in for information on obtaining a compatible version.

The Sparks Load node allows you to populate multiple Sparks nodes at the same time into a destination bin. Populating a bin with predefined Sparks nodes saves you time since you do not have to access the Sparks browser each time you want to use one of the preloaded Sparks.

Unlike the Sparks node, the Sparks Load node itself cannot be dragged to the schematic; only the predefined node populated into a bin can be dragged to the schematic.

To create a predefined Sparks node in a bin:

1. Drag the Sparks Load node on top of any tab in the ALL Tools bin except the ALL Nodes tab.

   The Sparks Plug-in file browser appears.

2. Select a Sparks Plug-in or select multiple plug-ins by Ctrl-clicking the Sparks you want to load.
3. Click load.

The selected Sparks are created as their own Sparks nodes in the destination bin. To use one of the preloaded Sparks, drag it from the destination bin to the schematic. You do not have to re-enter the Sparks browser to load a Sparks if you preloaded it into a bin.

For more information on Sparks plug-ins, see Using a Sparks Plug-in.