# Create and Edit

Source: https://help.zira.us/docs/data-sources/create-and-edit/overview
Summary: Use the shared data-source editor to build custom, PLC Connector, and Aggregator data sources with fields, settings, live preview, and AI-assisted drafting.
Updated: 2026-04-26

Use the shared editor when you create or update data sources that are built as structured forms.

This editor is used for flows such as **Custom**, **PLC Connector**, and **Aggregator**. It lets you define the schema, adjust settings, and preview the result before you save.

## Open the editor

1. Open a channel.
2. Click the **Data Sources** tab.
3. Click **Add Data Source**.
4. Select **Custom**, **PLC Connector**, or **Aggregator**.

You can also open the same editor when you edit an existing data source from the table.

## What you can do here

- Set the title and description for the data source.
- Add fields from the always-visible field toolbar.
- Organize fields, select multiple fields, and apply conditional display.
- Open **More settings** for publish targets, connected data sources, and behavior options.
- Preview the structure while you work.
- Use **AI Assist** to generate a first draft for the schema.
- Save when you are done, or discard unsaved changes if you want to return to the last saved version.

## How the editor is organized

The editor is split into two main areas:

- The left panel is the working area where you define the data source.
- The right panel is the preview area so you can check the layout before saving.
- When AI Assist is open, it appears as a third panel with an AI-themed background.

On smaller screens, use **Show Preview** to switch between editing and preview.

## Read next

- [AI Assist](/docs/data-sources/create-and-edit/ai-assist) - Generate and apply a first draft.
- [Layout and Preview](/docs/data-sources/create-and-edit/layout-and-preview) - Main editing areas.
- [Fields and Structure](/docs/data-sources/create-and-edit/fields-and-structure) - Add and organize fields.
- [More Settings](/docs/data-sources/create-and-edit/advanced-settings) - Site, publish, connection, and save behavior.
- [Expressions and Validation](/docs/data-sources/create-and-edit/expressions-and-validation) - Advanced calculated and validated fields.