Total newb question re: Element and DMX addresses

The standard syntax for patching would be, in channel mode,

1. Select the channels by typing on the command line: 101 [Thru] 104
2. next select the Type tile and search for your fixture (Altman Spectra ?) It looks like you're supposed to be using a 4 channel mode but I can't tell from your content which of the variants it would be (RGBW, RGBA, Cyc, Star Par, other).
3. Next assign the addresses by typing on the command line: [At] 101 [Enter]

The standard syntax for patching would be, in channel mode,

1. Select the channels by typing on the command line: 101 [Thru] 104
2. next select the Type tile and search for your fixture (Altman Spectra ?) It looks like you're supposed to be using a 4 channel mode but I can't tell from your content which of the variants it would be (RGBW, RGBA, Cyc, Star Par, other).
3. Next assign the addresses by typing on the command line: [At] 101 [Enter]

I'm sure I'm doing something wrong; when I select the Spectra Cyc100, it gives me a choice of tiles numbered 601 through 608. What do those numbers signify? Many thanks.

Those refer to the mode the fixture is set in. Various color and dimming options change with the mode.

Details are in the fixture manual: http://www.altmanlighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Altman-Spectra-Series-Programming-Manual-RTB.pdf Print yourself a copy to keep around.

Most of the Spectra fixtures work the same way, but do make sure which fixture you are actually using. Details can matter a lot. A 'master' lets the colors stay true when fading up and down. 'smoothing' reduces little jitters in light levels when fading, but slows response time. '16 bit' means it uses 2 addresses for each color or master and so lets you get very smooth and detailed with the settings. If you have the DMX addresses available I recommend the most complex mode with a master and smoothing. All those extra addresses will be handled invisibly by the Element. You get all the benefits for no extra work.