===== Charts =====

Charts are MIStudio graphics used to display numeric, array, and table-style data in visual form.

Charts are commonly used for trends, comparisons, process data, historical data, and dashboard displays.

==== Graphics in This Group ====

^ Chart ^ Description ^
| [[mistudio:design_editor:charts:linechart|LineChart]] | Line chart used to display one or more data series over an x-axis or time-based axis. |
| [[mistudio:design_editor:charts:barchart|BarChart]] | Bar chart used to compare values across categories, indexes, or series. |
| [[mistudio:design_editor:charts:bigdatalinechart|BigDataLineChart]] | Line chart designed for larger array-style or two-dimensional chart data. |
| [[mistudio:design_editor:charts:radarchart|RadarChart]] | Radar chart used to compare values across multiple radial indicators. |
| [[mistudio:design_editor:charts:piechart|PieChart]] | Pie chart used to display values as slices of a whole. |
| [[mistudio:design_editor:charts:doughnutchart|DoughnutChart]] | Doughnut-style chart used to display values as ring-shaped slices of a whole. |
| [[mistudio:design_editor:charts:sparkchart|SparkChart]] | Compact line chart used to show a small trend or value history. |
| [[mistudio:design_editor:charts:paretochart|ParetoChart]] | Pareto-style chart used to display bar values with a cumulative line. |
| [[mistudio:design_editor:charts:fdcchart|FDCChart]] | Custom or script-backed chart graphic. The documented workflow should be expanded when its intended use is confirmed. |

==== Common Uses ====

Charts are commonly used to:

  * Display trends over time
  * Compare multiple values
  * Show process or production data
  * Display array or table-style data
  * Build dashboards
  * Show live or test data in a visual format
  * Compare multiple data series

==== Common Data Sources ====

Charts are commonly tested with data sources such as:

  * **TwoDimensionalDataSource**
  * **ArrayDataSource**
  * **SineServer**
  * **RandomBoolean**
  * **Constant**

The best data source depends on the chart and input mode.

For many charts, **TwoDimensionalDataSource** is useful for testing x/y data, time-based data, and multiple series.

**ArrayDataSource** is useful for simpler array-style chart input.

Scalar values such as **SineServer**, **RandomBoolean**, or **Constant** can be useful when the chart exposes individual series inputs.

==== Input Modes ====

Some charts support more than one input mode.

For example, a chart can use a single **valueInput** port for array-style or two-dimensional data, or it can expose individual series ports such as `line_0`, `bar_0`, or similar inputs.

The available ports depend on the chart settings and the selected input mode.

==== Chart Series ====

Charts that display multiple values, bars, lines, or sections may require matching series configured in the chart properties.

For example, if a two-dimensional data source provides multiple Y columns, the chart may need matching series entries so each data column can appear.

The exact series configuration depends on the selected chart.

==== Notes ====

Use chart graphics when data needs to be displayed visually instead of as a single text or numeric value.

Use **TwoDimensionalDataSource** for full chart testing with x/y values, timestamps, and multiple data columns.

Use **ArrayDataSource** for simpler array-based chart testing.

Use text or indicator graphics when only one value needs to be displayed.

==== Related Pages ====

  * [[mistudio:design_editor:start|MIStudio Design Editor]]
  * [[mistudio:getting_started:connect_data_source_to_graphic|Connecting a Data Source to a Graphic]]
  * [[mistudio:getting_started:test_data_sources|Using Test Data Sources]]
  * [[mistudio:design_editor:basic_layout:indicators:start|Indicators]]
  * [[mistudio:design_editor:more_layout:status_motion:start|Status, Motion, and Process Graphics]]