Select Data Sources

Question and objective

Which source provides the information your analysis actually needs? A measured value can come from a control system, a broker, or a database, but it may have different time resolutions and meanings.

Implementation in Bytefabrik

Sources are connected via the adapters available in the installation. Typical access methods include OPC UA, MQTT, files, or databases. For specific protocol and format options, refer to the respective adapter. An HMI or MES cannot be connected directly by default; the interface it provides is the determining factor.

Examples of data from enterprise systems and the further use of processed data. This illustration does not assume that a connector is already available for every system mentioned. Open full-size image (new tab)

Best Practices: Clarify Before Configuration

Information	Why it's important
Measured value and unit	Prevents technically incorrect comparisons.
Event time or query time	Determines the temporal context of the analysis.
Transmission Behavior	Distinguishes between periodic values and state changes.
Machine and Part Identification	Enables assignment and subsequent linking.
	Historical Availability Indicates whether past time periods can be reloaded at all.
Responsibilities and Access	Facilitates troubleshooting and controlled changes.

What You Should Keep in Mind

A source that is queried slowly may miss brief changes in state. An archived average value is no substitute for raw events if individual peaks are to be analyzed later. Therefore, choose the resolution based on the research question.

Also, check with the people in charge to determine what query rate the source can handle. The benefit of a suitable source lies in reliable results and less effort required for later corrections.

Continue with setting up the adapter.