Before connecting a presentation element to a real-time data source, a Data Provider must be created. The Data Provider Wizard simplifies this process by guiding users through essential configuration steps.

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Steps to Add a Data Provider

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1. Open Data Provider Settings

  • Navigate to the Home Menu
  • Click Data Providers
  • Click Add… to start the Data Provider Wizard

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2. Follow the Wizard Steps

The Data Provider Wizard consists of the following steps:

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Choosing a Provider Type

  • Select the source type for your real-time data
  • Options include:
    • Databases (Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle, etc.)
    • XML & RSS Feeds
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Text & CSV Files
    • Web-based APIs & JSON Files

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General Provider Settings

  • Assign a unique name to the provider
  • Choose whether to use PADS4 Data Server for real-time retrieval

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Provider Connection Settings

  • Enter specific connection settings based on the selected data source
  • Configure authentication credentials (if required)

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Rearrange Data

  • Switch rows and columns as needed

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Adding Regular Expressions

  • Apply text pattern matching and optional text replacements

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Adding Custom Columns

  • Define calculated fields to extend the dataset

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Applying Filters & Sorting

  • Set up conditions to refine data selection
  • Define sorting rules

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Advanced Provider Settings

  • Configure backup data sources
  • Specify advanced retrieval options

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Finalizing the Data Provider Setup

  • Click Finish to complete the setup
  • The Data Provider is now available for use in the presentation

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Additional Notes

  • Data Vault Providers do not support all wizard steps (only expressions, sorting, and filtering are available)
  • Preview your Data Provider to verify real-time data retrieval

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Tip

To speed up setup, click Finish after completing the essential steps.