How to create a virtual setpoint
A virtual setpoint is a setpoint that exists in Properate but not in the installation. It's used when you need a value to control by that the building automation doesn't offer — a shared target temperature several automations can read, say, or a parameter you want to change without writing directly to a BACnet address.
How to create a virtual setpoint
- Open the building you want to work on. See How to switch building and search for a building.
- Go to Setpoints in the sidebar.
- Click Add virtual setpoint.
- Fill in the setpoint — name, value and limits.
- Save.
The setpoint now appears in the table alongside the others.
How to delete a virtual setpoint
Use Delete virtual setpoint and confirm Delete this virtual setpoint?
If it fails, the message says Couldn't delete virtual setpoint. Try again.
Note: Only virtual setpoints can be deleted. Setpoints coming from the installation belong to the installation, and they don't disappear from Properate by being deleted — they have to be changed in the building automation.
What a virtual setpoint is, and isn't
Property | Virtual setpoint |
|---|---|
Exists in the installation | no |
Can be read by automations in Properate | yes |
Writes directly to a physical component | no |
Can be deleted from Properate | yes |
A virtual setpoint does nothing on its own. Its value only has an effect once something reads it — a cloud automation, a flex automation, or calendar control using it as a basis. See How to create a cloud automation.
Typical uses
- A shared value several automations control by. Change the one value and every automation reading it follows — instead of you having to change the same number in five places.
- A parameter that doesn't exist in the installation. The building automation doesn't necessarily have a point for every setting you want to control by.
- Safe experimentation. You can change a virtual setpoint without writing to the installation, and see what the automation would have done.
How to link the setpoint to a value
Like other setpoints, a virtual setpoint can have a Link to value. Use Confirm connection to confirm it, Remove link to take it away, and Suggested alternative links if Properate has other candidates. If none is set, it says No link is selected.
Frequently asked questions
Does a virtual setpoint change anything in the building?
Not directly. It's a value in Properate. The effect comes through whatever reads it.
Does priority apply here too?
The priority levels in the setpoint dialog work the same way — see How to change a setpoint.
Where do I add a virtual setpoint from?
From Setpoints, and you'll also find the option in the Add or modify meter menu under Timeseries.
Can several automations read the same virtual setpoint?
Yes, and that's precisely why they're useful.
Tip!
Give the virtual setpoint a name saying what it controls, not what it is — "Target temperature office wing" rather than "Virtual setpoint 3". Its value gets read by automations other people set up, and the name is the only thing telling them whether they can change it.