The Externally-defined distribution is a specialized distribution that is defined externally by a Distribution output:
The External Definition field only accepts a Distribution output. Distribution outputs are complex outputs that represent all the statistical information necessary to define a probability distribution. They can only be produced by another Stochastic element, a Spreadsheet element, or a SubModel.
The primary purpose of this distribution type is to connect a Stochastic to a distribution that has been imported via a Spreadsheet element.
However, there are also several other specialized uses, such as exchanging distribution information with a SubModel, and to support dynamically revising distributions using simulated Bayesian updating.
Learn more about:
Importing Stochastic Element Definitions from a Spreadsheet
Creating the Input Interface to a SubModel
Creating the Output Interface to a SubModel
Dynamically Revising Distributions Using Simulated Bayesian Updating