Import Data Sources

The data model includes all data sources and their relations that are part of a label or solution file. To import a data model means that you can import the external data sources into an existing label or solution file. These imported data sources can be further used as dynamic content for label or form objects.

The ability to import data sources helps you keep the data sources in your labels and solutions uniform and consistent. If you have a standard range of data sources, you can share these data sources across the company with your label designers. The label designers import the shared data sources, which ensures that the label templates are equipped with the relevant variables, functions, and databases.

Note

Importing data sources that share the same name with your existing data sources causes conflicts.

When importing data sources with the same name you, you can:

  • Overwrite existing data source with the imported ones.

  • Merge the data sources. Merges your data sources (of the same type). When merge is not possible (For example, a text variable and a date variable with the same name), Loftware keeps both data sources and renames the imported ones (For example, Variable and Variable_1). The definitions of your imported variables, functions, or databases override the values of your existing variables, functions, or databases.

To import a data model, go to Management ribbon group > Dynamic Data Manager drop-down list and click Import Data Sources.

Import Options: allows you to import data models using multiple file formats. They can either be a complete label or solution file, or a separate Loftware variable export file (.NLVR extension):

  • Solution File (*.nsln) imports data sources from a Loftware solution file.

  • Label File (*.nlbl) imports data sources from a Loftware label file.

  • Label File (V6) (*.lbl) imports data sources from a Loftware V6 legacy label file.

  • XFF Form File (*.xff) imports data sources from a Loftware V6 legacy solution file.

  • Variables Export File Definition (*.nlvr) imports data sources from a previously Export Variables.

  • Oracle WMS File Definition imports variables from external Oracle WMS files. These are XML files generated by Oracle Warehouse Management system that include instructions for 3rd party label printing software.

Tip

Variables export file is described in section Variables Export File Definition.