Transformation ports are the individual columns of data that you connect in a mapping or mapplet. Transformations receive the data from input ports and send the data out using output ports. Input/output ports receive data and pass it unchanged.

Every input object, output object, mapplet, and transformation contains a collection of ports. Input objects provide data, so they contain only output ports. Output objects receive data, so they contain only input ports. Mapplets contain only input ports and output ports. Transformations contain a combination of input, output, and input/output ports, depending on the transformation and its application.

A dynamic port can receive one or more columns from an upstream transformation. Dynamic ports can receive new or changed columns based on the data flow.

After you create a transformation in a mapping, create the ports and define the port properties. Complete the mapping by linking it to targets and other transformations through the ports. Propagate port attributes to pass changed attributes to a port throughout a mapping.