===== Data Sources Overview =====

This page introduces the basic role of data sources in MIStudio.

==== Overview ====

Data sources provide values that can be used by graphics, controls, charts, logic, and other parts of an MIStudio application.

A data source can send changing values into a graphic so the graphic updates while the application is running.

For example, a data source can update:

  * A box fill level
  * A meter value
  * A label or text display
  * A chart
  * A visibility setting
  * A color or status indicator
  * A control or exposed property

==== Where Data Sources Are Used ====

Data sources are commonly used in the Main Logic Editor.

In the Logic Editor, a data source appears as a block with an output port. A graphic or component appears as another block with one or more input ports. A connection can be created between the data source output and the graphic input.

For an overview of the Logic Editor and its components, see [[mistudio:logic_editor:start|MIStudio Logic Editor]].

For a basic example of connecting a data source to a graphic, see [[mistudio:getting_started:connect_data_source_to_graphic|Connecting a Data Source to a Graphic]].

==== Common Data Source Examples ====

MIStudio includes test data sources that are useful for learning and testing.

Examples include:

  * **SineServer** Provides a changing numeric value.
  * **RandomBoolean** Provides changing true/false-style values.
  * **RandomStringServer** Provides changing string values.
  * **ArrayDataSource** Provides array-style data.
  * **TwoDimensionalDataSource** Provides table-style data that can be useful for charts and other row-and-column displays.

The exact data source to use depends on the graphic or property being connected.

==== Value Types ====

Different data sources provide different kinds of values.

Common value types include:

^ Value Type ^ Common Use ^
| Numeric | Meters, fill levels, charts, numeric displays, and value-based graphics. |
| Boolean | On/off states, visibility, indicators, controls, and true/false behavior. |
| String | Labels, text fields, text areas, and other text display graphics. |
| Array | Graphics or charts that expect multiple values. |
| Two-dimensional data | Charts, tables, or displays that expect rows and columns of values. |

==== Matching Data Sources to Graphics ====

When connecting a data source, choose a source that matches the type of input the graphic expects.

For example:

  * Use numeric data for meters, fillable graphics, and numeric displays.
  * Use boolean data for on/off behavior, visibility, and status indicators.
  * Use string data for text-style graphics.
  * Use array or two-dimensional data for graphics that expect multiple values.

If a data source does not match the graphic input, the graphic may not update as expected.

==== Data Sources and Exposed Properties ====

Data sources can also be connected to exposed properties.

Exposed properties allow a specific graphic property to change while the application is running. For example, a data source may be connected to a visibility property, color property, label property, or other exposed setting.

See [[mistudio:design_editor:exposed_properties|Exposed Properties]] for more information.

==== Data Sources and Test Projects ====

Test data sources are useful when building a project because they allow graphics to be tested before live equipment, database, or external system data is available.

A simple test workflow is:

  * Add a graphic to an application.
  * Open the graphic in the Logic Editor.
  * Add a test data source.
  * Connect the data source output to the graphic input.
  * Confirm that the graphic updates from the changing value.
  * Save the project.

==== Getting Started Flow ====

Previous: [[mistudio:getting_started:start|MIStudio Getting Started]]

Next: [[mistudio:getting_started:test_data_sources|Using Test Data Sources]]

==== Related Pages ====

  * [[mistudio:getting_started:start|MIStudio Getting Started]]
  * [[mistudio:logic_editor:start|MIStudio Logic 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:start|MIStudio Design Editor]]
  * [[mistudio:design_editor:exposed_properties|Exposed Properties]]
  * [[mistudio:design_editor:data_source_binding|Data Source Binding]]
  * [[mistudio:servers:start|Servers and Data Sources]]