What is the "intent" of a plot versus the HDV? Where would I use one and not the other?

Looks like plots are single pen?

I want to create a trend with several variables that always looks the same when it opens ... same scaling, time range. My first thought was a plot, or series of plots (because the HDV is a new concept to me) but maybe there is a better way?

thanks

The "Plot Data" widget has been around for a very long time and is still supported for backwards compatibility. It can only draw one tag at a time. The "Draw HDV" widget is much newer and has all the bells and whistles you might need. It is the appropriate tool for new trends on a page. If you wish to prevent an operator from adjusting the view, you can disable some or all of the controls when you configure the widget.

thanks, nice tip, much appreciated