ClassiCattm Import-Export Utility FAQ

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What is ClassiCat's Import-Export?

ClassiCat's Import-Export is a function that allows you to copy repertoire information into and out of your ClassiCat database. This can save hours of data entry time! The repertoire information that the program transfers includes composers, compositions, and movements plus related data like genres and scores (instrumentation). Optionally, it also allows you to copy composer and composition notes and custom information.

Once you've imported music information into your database, then you can add these compositions to a recording by selecting them from prepopulated lists.

Who can use the ClassiCat's Import-Export?

ClassiCat's Import-Export functionalty is free for registered ClassiCat users - the program will not successfully import with non-registered databases.

Where do I get information to Import into my ClassiCat database?

If you are a registered ClassiCat user, all you need to do is to download "zipped" music database file, uncompress it, and then use the Import-Export feature in ClassiCat program to do your importing and exporting. You'll specify the unzipped music database file as the file to "Import from". See the "Help" system on the program for more information on how it works.

If you don't want to bother with downloading and unzipping, or your Internet connection does not work efficiently with large downloads, you can get the importable music file along with the latest ClassiCat program files on CD-ROM..

Also, with the Import-Export program you can swap extracts with other ClassiCat users.

Do I need special software or skills to use the Import-Export service?

Using the Import-Export service does not require any special software or skills beyond that which is generally needed to download and use data and software files from over the Internet. This includes some basic knowledge of working with files and directories.

Besides the ClassiCat program, the only software that you need to take advantage of the Import-Export service is a program to uncompress the "zipped" files that you download. Such software is widely used and available. Two of the most popular programs are Pkzip from PKWARE and WinZip from Nico Mak Computing.

The extract file that I downloaded is incomplete. How come?

The files that are available for downloading have been contributed by various ClassiCat users. In serving as a "clearinghouse" for download files, TDWARE acts somewhat like a funnel to aggregate the data and to provide a common and accessible location. In addition, recommended data conventions are provided to promote consistency. However, the availability of information is subject to what has been contributed to date. This process is dependent upon the contributions of others!!

How do I contribute entries from my database?

You can easily create extracts from your own ClassiCat database with the Import-Export Utility. Once your contribution is ready, simply compress it into the zip format and attach it to an email to webmaster@tdware.com. All contributors are asked to first read guidelines for contributing ClassiCat Import-Export files and to follow the recommended data conventions.

What happens to my extract file after it is received by TDWARE?

Once your submission has been received by TDWARE, it is first given a cursory review for completeness and adherence to conventions. Then, if selected for inclusion in the online files, it will be copied to the appropriate extract file(s) and uploaded to the Internet. You can check the extract file web page for recent uploads.

Do you guarantee that my submission will be available from the Internet?

Generally, any submission that is complete, follows the recommended conventions, and is not a duplicate entry will be added to the upload files. However, all submissions become the property of TDWARE without any guarantees as to their ultimate use. We reserve the right to make final decisions as to their inclusion in the Internet files and also to make any necessary modifications.

Why would TDWARE make changes to my contribution?

Only to fill in unused fields, correct errors, insure consistency, and adapt to conventions. However, once data has been added to the online files you may not receive any notice about updates. TDWARE uses the following two books for reference purposes:

How complete and accurate are the download files?

While TDWARE attempts to provide as complete and accurate extract files as possible, we cannot make any guarantees as to their content. We are dependent upon user contributions and do not have the resources to research them in detail. Generally, we act as a funnel that makes the information available for your use but in the end we rely upon our contributors for accuracy and thoroughness.

What if I find an error in a file that I've downloaded?

Notify TDWARE via email (webmaster@tdware.com) of any database errors or omissions that you find. Any reference material that you can cite in regards to your correction will be helpful.

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