linkConnections

Create and manage attribute connections between instances.

Purpose

The Connections view lets you wire data flow between instance attributes without editing model files. Use it to validate signal paths, mirror values, and quickly iterate on wiring during debugging.

Back to UI Overview: UI Overview.

Where to find it

In the UI navigation, select Connections.

What you can do here

  • Browse and search connections by name or endpoint.

  • Create, edit, duplicate, or delete connections.

  • Toggle connections on/off with the Enabled switch.

  • Choose Internal or External value sources (internal_value / external_value) for each endpoint. Internal values are computed inside the model; External values represent data coming from outside (protocols, UI/tests) and exposed to integrations.

  • Import/export full system configuration (models/instances/connections) and copy export data.

Connections list

The table is grouped into From and To endpoints. Each connection has:

  • Name — a human-friendly connection identifier.

  • From — instance + attribute + value source.

  • To — instance + attribute + value source.

  • Enabled — toggle to activate or disable the connection.

Value sources are shown as chips in the list; when you edit a row, they become Internal/External toggles. Use Internal when you want simulation output, and External when the value should represent inbound or integration-facing data.

Connections list showing From/To columns + Enabled toggle

Create or edit a connection

Use Add connection to create a new row, then select instances and attributes. Use the Internal/External toggle in the Value column to choose which attribute value to read/write (internal_value vs external_value). Internal is the model's computed value; External is the value exposed to or coming from the outside. Save or cancel from the action buttons in the row; existing rows also support Duplicate and Delete.

New connection row in edit mode

Import / Export configuration

Use Import or Export to move a full system configuration (models, instances, connections) between environments. You can also copy the export payload to the clipboard.

Connections page import/export actions

Typical workflow

  1. Open Connections and search for an existing connection (if needed).

  2. Add or edit a connection and select From and To endpoints.

  3. Choose Internal or External value sources and save.

  4. Toggle Enabled on and confirm values change in Instances.

What to verify

  • Integrator: source and destination instances/attributes exist and update correctly.

  • QA: connections are deterministic when stepping time in tests.

  • Developer: enabling/disabling connections has immediate effect on values.

Common issues

  • Server connection not established: connect in Settings and refresh.

  • Attribute list empty: select an instance first; verify the instance exposes attributes.

  • Connection does not update values: confirm Enabled is on and endpoints are correct.

  • Save fails: check for missing name, instance, or attribute.

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