OpenAI API Setup Guide
Follow these simple steps to get your OpenAI API key and start generating icons
TAU Icon Generator uses OpenAI's DALL-E 3 and GPT-4o APIs to create and refine your icons. You'll need to create an OpenAI account and add credits to use the app.
2
Add Credits to Your Account
OpenAI uses a pay-as-you-go model. You'll need to add credits before using the API.
Estimated Costs:
DALL-E 3 (1024x1024): ~$0.04 per image
GPT-4o prompt refinement: ~$0.01 per refinement
Recommended starting balance: $10-20
Log in to platform.openai.com/settings/profile
In the left sidebar, click on "Billing"
Click "Add payment method" and enter your credit card details
Choose "Add to credit balance" and select an amount (minimum $5)
Complete the payment
Tip: You can set up usage limits in the billing settings to control your spending.
Go to Settings
3
Create Your API Key
Navigate to platform.openai.com/api-keys
Click the "+ Create new secret key" button
Give your key a name (e.g., "TAU Icon Generator")
Important: Copy the API key immediately - you won't be able to see it again!Store the key securely (you'll paste it into the TAU Icon Generator app)
Security Warning: Never share your API key publicly or commit it to version control. Treat it like a password.
Go to API Keys
4
Configure TAU Icon Generator
Open the TAU Icon Generator application
Locate the "API Key" field in the settings section
Paste your OpenAI API key into the field
The app will automatically save your key securely
You're ready to start generating icons!
Your API key is stored locally on your device and is never sent to our servers.
Troubleshooting
Error: "Insufficient credits"
Add more credits to your OpenAI account through the billing page.
Error: "Invalid API key"
Double-check that you copied the entire API key correctly. Create a new key if needed.
Error: "Rate limit exceeded"
You've made too many requests in a short time. Wait a few minutes and try again.