> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.tillit.cloud/tillit/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.tillit.cloud/tillit/knowledge-base/setting-up-tillit/edge/common-data-sources.md).

# Common Data Sources

## Overview

The Data Source defines the integration between the local factory network and the equipment or controllers on-site. It supports industrial protocols such as OPC-UA (including secure connection configurations), PROFINET, MODBUS TCP, and EtherNet/IP (for ControlLogix and CompactLogix controllers), while also providing a built-in simulator for testing, training, or demonstrations. Its configuration options focus on local network parameters—such as IP addresses, ports, security policies, and function codes—required to establish communication between the Edge and the plant's local sources.

## Navigation

{% hint style="info" %}
Go to **Settings > Edge > Data Sources** or **Settings > Edge > Edge**, then select the relevant **Edge**, and locate the **Edge Data Source panel**, and click to open.
{% endhint %}

## Create a Data Source

Ensure TilliT [Edge](/tillit/knowledge-base/setting-up-tillit/edge/edge.md) is onboarded and online.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Click the **Create** button.

<figure><img src="https://352909507-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FrNT40XJFAFlAhUX8CcQS%2Fuploads%2FI5FoI7Khk6zt25LlGLg3%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=0adf5a9a-af3d-436c-a4cc-2745e07f054d" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
In the modal, fill in the required fields.

<figure><img src="https://352909507-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FrNT40XJFAFlAhUX8CcQS%2Fuploads%2F6Up8pkX0A2yjMHiSHbNi%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=88f55376-dc10-4a97-a9f6-54e2d9bac0d9" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click **Save and close** to finalize the setup.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Verify the connection:

* Be sure to press the **Publish Configuration** button for the Edge.
* Check the **Connected** checkbox. A tick will appear once the edge is connected to the data source.
* The connection status updates every 60 seconds.
  {% endhint %}

### Fields

| Name            | Description                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                |
| --------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Name            | A name for the data source.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                |
| Datasource Type | <p>The protocol TilliT will use to communicate with the data source<br></p><ul><li><strong>OPC\_UA server</strong> (recommended)</li><li><strong>Direct PLC connection</strong> via PROFINET, MODBUS, or RevPi Module</li><li><strong>Simulator</strong> (for testing, training, or demos without a data source)</li></ul> |
| Endpoint        | The data source address.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |
| Edge            | The associated Edge device. Choose a previously registered Edge from the drop-down menu, or add a new one by clicking the + button.                                                                                                                                                                                        |
| Options         | Advanced networking options                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                |