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Multiple Y Columns

When you have multiple measurement columns, Quantum XL overlays them on the same chart by default, with each series in a different color. This makes it easy to compare trends side by side.

Goal

Compare temperature readings from two sensors on the same chart.

Sample Data

Press Copy for Excel, then paste the table into a blank worksheet.

Sensor A Sensor B
72.1 70.5
73.4 71.2
71.8 70.8
74.2 72.0
73.0 71.5
75.1 73.3
72.6 71.0
74.8 72.8
73.5 71.9
76.0 74.2

Each column represents readings from a different sensor. Both sensors track the same process but may show different levels or patterns.

Steps

  1. Put the data in Excel

    Press Copy for Excel above the table, click cell A1 in a blank worksheet, and press Ctrl+V. The header row lands in row 1 and the 10 data rows in rows 2 through 11.

  2. Launch the analysis

    From the Excel ribbon, select QXL Stat Tools → Analysis Tools → Run Chart.

  3. Select your data

    Select cells A1:B11 (the header row plus all 10 data rows across both columns).

  4. Configure the analysis

    In the Run Chart dialog:

    • Y Columns: Both "Sensor A" and "Sensor B" should be checked
    • Overlay Charts: Should be checked (this is the default)

    Click Finish to generate the chart.

Overlay vs. Separate Charts

The Overlay Charts checkbox is enabled by default, placing both series on the same chart. Uncheck it to create separate charts, one for each Y column.

Result

Quantum XL creates a single run chart with two series (Sensor A and Sensor B), each in a different color. A legend identifies each series. Both sensors show a similar upward trend, but Sensor A consistently reads about 1.5 to 2 degrees higher than Sensor B.