Purpose and Key Concepts

Below is a list of key concepts essential to understanding the Datasets Module.

Dataset DBs

You need to create a connection for the Datasets Module to communicate with external databases. You can create these connections, called Dataset DBs, by accessing Datasets → DBs in the platform.

Dataset Queries

In the context of the Dataset Module, a Dataset Query refers not only to an SQL query string but also to a Project object that has a logical name, an SQL query related to that logical name, and other parameters defined within the Datasets → Queries section.

Dataset Tables

A Dataset Table is a logical name created within a solution to set up access to a specific table in a connected database. These tables are listed in Datasets → Tables. The Tags in the real-time database can easily be mapped to columns in the tables to insert, update, or read operations.

Dataset Files

A Dataset File is a logical name that defines parameters for reading and writing files in ASCII, Unicode, or XML formats. To manage the Dataset Files, go to Datasets → Files. 

Datasets Functionality

The Datasets Module enables users to interact with SQL databases seamlessly, allowing them to retrieve and manipulate data within their applications. With this module, users can generate custom visualizations using Displays, implement intricate logic using Scripts, and set up dynamic Alarms based on database information. Additionally, the module supports real-time Tags within query strings, adding flexibility to data interaction. It further extends its functionality by managing files and recipes in ASCII, Unicode, or XML formats, making it versatile across various data types.

Feature Highlights

• Multi-threaded concurrent connections for efficient data handling.
• Dedicated SQLite editor for streamlined database management.
  
• Intuitive visual query builder that simplifies the process of query creation and manipulation.

Processing Data Requests

The Datasets Module forms an integral part of the module, ensuring high performance and seamless integration while exchanging structured data collections in real-time. It efficiently processes data requests from other modules, enabling connectivity with various components such as HMI/SCADA screens, scripting, and reporting tools. It also serves as the data storage configuration hub for other modules. The Alarm and Historian modules, which generate events and records for long-term retention, utilize the Dataset module for defining data storage. Similarly, the Security module can utilize user definitions from an external database within the Dataset module.

Data Source Virtualization

Data Source Virtualization is a feature that simplifies data management across multiple data sources. It provides a unified interface for accessing, querying, and manipulating data, regardless of the data storage technology. This feature allows modifications to the data source repositories without impacting the rest of the application. Since the module works with various technologies, you can manage data connections and configurations using a centralized approach, streamlining the integration of different data sources into your solutions.

Access the Advanced Datasets Topics page for more details of how the Dataset module works.

Configuring the Datasets Module

The basic process for configuring the Dataset module is as follows:

1. Create a Database connection. Learn more at Database DBs.
2. Create Queries, assign logical names, and add real-time parameters.  Access Dataset Queries for more information.
3. Manage your solution tables and connect data with Tags. See the Dataset Tables for more details.
4. Exchange data via files. Learn more at Dataset Files.

The above steps are a simplified explanation of the configuration process. For additional information on configuring the Datasets module, access  Configuring Datasets.

More on the Datasets Module

To learn more about the Datasets Module, you can use the additional documentation pages available:

• Learn how to use the Datasets Module together with other modules accessing the Working with Datasets page.

The Advanced Datasets Topics page presents complementary information about the following: 

• Databases Connections and Interactions
• Data Management

• Datasets Runtime attributes

• Preventing SQL Injections
• Time zone handling

Use the Datasets Best Practices and Troubleshooting page to access helpful tips and troubleshooting guides.

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