Features with data source connector are for short called connector features. Connector features can build a bridge between the Redbex Application Server and external data sources. Connector features will load data for their observations from a configured external data source when requested by the user.

Connector features are a great way to connect Redbex to other software systems. In contrast to data import the data from the external data sources is never stored within the Application Server database but always read from the external data source when needed (however some caching might occur to limit loading times).

Which external data sources can be connected depends on the connector types available for a specific feature type. Connector types are deployed by Pöyry Infra GmbH they include all the logic needed to contact an external data source and read data from the data source. Pöyry Infra GmbH provides connector types for some of our own software systems like a specialized TBM Data Analysis Database, most connector types however are developed specifically for our customers. If you need a connector to a specific external data source please contact the Redbex support team.

Note that when connecting external data sources via the internet it must be secured that the communication channel the Application Server uses to contact the data source is not blocked by firewalls, system permissions etc.

Since the Application Server queries data from external data sources at that point in time when the user requests it external data sources must guarantee that they can answer the requests within a specific time span. Since external data sources are not under the control of the Redbex or Pöyry Infra GmbH it is up to the user to configure external data sources in a way that they can answer requests within the time limit.

Figure 1 The the installation structure of the Redbex system when using connector features with external data sources.