Virtual functions allow you to compare signals or trends in the data from one or more datasources in order to aggregate database values and calculate statistical values. Data from database tables, values from DAT files as well as time-based signals or event-based data from ibaHD-Server can be used as basis for comparisons and calculations.

A configured virtual signal is appended to the datasource as a calculation rule during the saving process. You can visualize the results of a virtual function in charts and combine them with data from databases, HD stores or values from DAT files. The results shown by a virtual signal are not stored and are determined in the dashboard view based on the current dashboard filters. You can also use virtual signals as input signals for other virtual signals and in dashboard views for scaling the Y-axes or color changes.

In both datasource management and dashboard tiles, you can add and edit virtual functions, see Adding a virtual signal to a datasource and Adding a virtual signal to a tile.

In user management, configuring, modifying and deleting virtual functions is integrated into a permission. Along the permission to configure datasources or to modify dashboards, the user also gets the right to define virtual functions. See User – User Permissions tab and User – Dashboard Permissions tab.