As shown in Figure 5, the IP configuration can be modelled combining the first two approaches, using one Variable with the structured DataType and subvariables for the individual content.
Figure 5 – Example of structured DataType and one Variable and individual Variables as subvariables
This approach combines the first two approaches and therefore also their advantages. A specific Client can access data in its native format, whereas a generic Client can access simple DataTypes of the components of the complex Variable. Additional information and references can be added to the subvariables. The data can be accessed with a transactional context or individually.
The disadvantage is that the Server must be able to provide the native format and interpret it to be able to provide the information in simple DataTypes. In general, it is more effort for the Server to provide the data individually and in a structure.