> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://support.taltech.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Send WinWedge data to Minitab via DDE

> How to configure WinWedge and Minitab to collect serial device data directly into Minitab columns using DDE.

WinWedge can send data to Minitab either as keystrokes or via DDE. The keystrokes method is the simplest. Data appears in Minitab as if you typed it. The DDE method offers more control in certain situations, such as when collecting data from multiple serial ports.

## WinWedge setup

1. Set up WinWedge as usual for your instrument.
2. Choose "DDE Server" from the "Mode Menu" in WinWedge.
3. Enter the following:
   * **Name:** `Minitab`
   * **Topic:** name of your file in Minitab
   * **Item:** `c1`, `c2`, etc. (the columns in Minitab where the serial data should appear)

## Minitab setup

1. In Minitab, go to the "Manage Links" menu.
2. Enter the following:
   * **Application:** `WinWedge`
   * **Topic:** your COM port number
   * **Item:** `Field(1)`, `Field(2)`, `DateTime`, etc.
   * **Next:** column (`c1`, `c2`, etc.)
   * **Next:** `append`

If you have questions about setting up DDE from within Minitab, contact Minitab support directly.

## Test the connection

Run WinWedge in "Test" mode to verify it has been correctly configured before collecting live data.


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