Input entry

Labeled inputs on function task panes accept appropriate values for the function. For many inputs, you can enter either a value or a reference to a worksheet cell that contains the value. Some inputs have a default value shown when the task pane opens. Inputs marked (optional) do not require a value.

For inputs with edit fields , you can:

• Enter text directly in the edit field, such as a PI AF attribute name or the address of an output cell.

• Select the edit field, and then select a worksheet cell or range that contains appropriate values, such as PI AF attribute names, time stamps, or output cell locations.

• Select the edit field to open a list of valid values that you can select from (only available for the Root path and Database fields).

• Select to open the Search tool, and then select data items found in a search of a connected Data Archive server or PI AF server.

For inputs with lists , you can:

• Select a choice from the list, such as a calculation or a sampling method.

• Select and then click a worksheet cell or range that contains appropriate values, such as a mode, time unit, boundary type, or property.

  Note: In edit fields, enter strings without any quotes. However, in worksheet cells, enter strings with a leading quote (') to force Excel to interpret the contents as a string.

For example, to specify a PI point in the Data item(s) field, you can:

• Enter the string for the point name.

• Select to open the Search tool, and search the Data Archive server for the point.

• Enter a reference to a worksheet cell that contains the point name:

  1. Select the Data item(s) field.

  2. Select the cell on the worksheet.

     PI DataLink automatically enters the cell reference into the edit field.