Converters

The Converter building block:

• holds values for constants
• defines external inputs to the model
• calculates algebraic relationships
• serves as the repository for graphical functions

In general, it converts inputs into outputs.

Converter types

Three types of converters are available:

• Standard converter - This converter can be used for any number of purposes, as described above.
• Summing converter - This converter adds together values for a set of model variables, without the need to draw connectors from inputs to the converter. This special converter type can be helpful when you're creating summary reports, indices, etc.
• Delay converter - This converter can change over time in response to changes in input, such as through SMTH1, SMTH3, DELAY, DELAY3, and related Builtins. A Delay Converter has some of the properties of a Stock, so it contains a box inside the regular converter circle. Because it has properties of a stock, it's possible for Delay Converters to be involved in feedback loops in which no explicit Stock exists. For more discussion see Delay Converter Example.
• Pathway Score - This converter reports the (raw) pathway score as computed for Loops that Matter (see Loops That MatterTM Overview). You can also change a Loop Score variable to a Pathway Score variable by selecting Change to  Type from the Context Menu.
• Loop Score -This converter reports the normalized loop score as computed for Loops that Matter (see Loops That MatterTM Overview). It can also be created from the Loops Panel or converted from Pathway Score variable using the Context Menu. Loop Score variables are not computed until after a simulation ends, and can't be used in other variables (no connectors can be created from a Loop Score variable). It is also possible to change the appearance to match that of Loop Labels () from the Equation Tab

The default converter type is the standard converter.

Adding a converter

1. In the Build toolbar, choose a converter type from the Converter dropdown menu. The converter tool icon will change to show the selected converter type.
2. Click the converter tool. The cursor will change to a converter icon.
   
3. Click in the Stella window to add the converter. The Properties panel for the selected converter will appear.
4. Enter a name for the converter.
5. In the Properties panel, enter an equation and other properties.

   For more information about placing, naming, and editing converters, see Working with Building Blocks.

   Tip: To select the size of the converter icons for the entire model, or to display converter names only, use Diagram Options in the Style tab of the Model Preferences dialog box.

See Also