> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://finite-machine-studio.gitbook.io/vatmachine-documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://finite-machine-studio.gitbook.io/vatmachine-documentation/runtime-components/vatsocketlink.md).

# VATSocketLink

Since VAT characters do not need runtime bones for deformation, sockets are used when you still need objects to follow animated points on the character.

### Where Is VATSocketLink Used?

VATSocketLink should be added to the object that needs to follow a socket.

For example:

* A sword holder object
* A hat object
* A backpack object
* A VFX spawn point
* A weapon parent object

### VATSocketLink Inspector

<figure><img src="/files/EiSWM92AuyAXIbQd3OxC" alt=""><figcaption><p>VATSocketLink Inspector</p></figcaption></figure>

#### Animator

The Animator field references the VATAnimator that owns the baked socket data.

If this field is empty, VATSocketLink will try to find a VATAnimator in its parent hierarchy.

#### Socket Name

Socket Name is the name of the baked socket to follow.

This must match the socket name that was selected during baking.

#### Apply Space

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/BUA64NNFY5ZIXC3UPshO" alt="" width="375"><figcaption><p>Apply Space</p></figcaption></figure></div>

Apply Space controls how the socket pose is applied.

**Animator Local:** Use this when the socket-following object is parented under the VAT character root. The component applies the socket pose as local position and local rotation.

**World:** Use this when the socket-following object is not parented under the VAT character root. The component converts the socket pose into world position and world rotation.

#### Apply Position and Apply Rotation

These options control whether VATSocketLink should apply position, rotation, or both.

Use both for most attachments.

You may disable one if you only want to follow position or only want to follow rotation.

#### Position Offset and Rotation Offset

Offsets allow you to manually adjust the attached object after the socket pose is applied.

However, for complex props like weapons, it is usually better to bake properly aligned holder sockets instead of relying on offsets ([Read More](/vatmachine-documentation/socket-system.md#socket-baking-tip-use-pre-aligned-holder-transforms)).

This keeps the VATSocketLink clean and avoids tedious manual offset tweaking.

#### Warn If Missing

Warn If Missing logs a warning if the current animation does not contain the requested socket.


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