Datasource FAQS

What is a datasource ?
A datasource is an internal database that EPE uses to store map and context information. The first time you run EPE a default datasource is copied to a directory (workspace/epe) in your home directory. This should not be directly modified, instead you add maps, folders etc using the Map Repository View.

How do I create a datasource ?
You don't need to - the datasource, with example maps, is set up the first time you run EPE.
At present, only one datasource is needed and this can store all your maps.
How do I save the map I've drawn ?
When you're ready to save the map you've drawn , click:
Ctrl-S or File->Save
and the map will be saved to the database.
How do I share my map with others ?
To share the map you need to export it. The map, or set of maps is exported as a zipped XML file which can be reimported back into EPE. Click
File->Export
and follow the wizard. For more details see the
Export reference page.
How do I set the number of backups?
Each time you exit EPE a backup of the database is saved. The default number of backups is 2, but this can be controlled by the user. CLick on :
Window->Preferences
and then navigate to EPEPreferences->DataPreference.
The included database is about 400Mb so please ensure you have enough space to store the backups, which are stored in the EPEworkspace folder of your home directory.
How do I restore from backup ?
EPE takes backup of MyDataSource folder whenever user closes the application. These backups are kept in backup folder under user's workspace directory. The pattern of backup file names are: MyDataSource_ddmmyyy_number where ddmmyyyy and number are used to represent latest backup files.

How to restore backup:
Perform the following steps to retrieve data from backup files.
  1. Exit EPE application.
  2. Navigate to the backup directory under the user EPEworkspace folder.
  3. Select the backup file which you want to restore and unzip that backup file.
  4. Ensure the unzipped backup file is renamed to 'MyDataSource'.
  5. Overwrite existing MyDataSource folder with new MyDataSource folder.
How do I disable backups ?
You can disable backups by going to
Window->Preferences->EPEPreferences->DataPreference and unchecking the "Enable backups" checkbox. Any previous backups will remain unchanged.
How do I export my map to SBML ?
Basic SBML support for level 1 version 2 is provided for metabolic maps designed in EMP context. For further information, see the Export Help page.

For more SBML info see the SBML website.