# How Compound Objects Work

A compound object is created by combining graphical objects, local variables, scripts, converters and user defined properties.

A compound object placed on the screen has compound object properties.

For information on how to set compound object properties, refer to the following.
Properties (Compound Object Properties)

After dragging and dropping a compound object from the Tool Chest on to a screen, set the compound object properties in the [Properties] window.

For instructions on how to place and set up compound objects, refer to the following.
Using Compound Objects

The following illustrates a compound object that uses a toggle switch to start and stop a motor, and two numeric display parts that display the motor speed and temperature.

Structure of Compound Objects

- Motor image
- Numeric Display (Speed)
- Numeric Display (Temperature)
- Toggle Switch (Start/Stop)

In this example, there are three compound object properties, with the Display Name field defining the text that displays in the [Properties] window.

Compound objects placed on the screen are linked to the project compound object in the Compound Object Explorer.