ignoring data file header

matsmcfly

I have a large dataset where each powder pattern has a header associated with it which prevents me using the datafile without editing. I would be keen to find out if there is a way to tell Topas in the input file to ignore the first x lines of the data file and then import the pattern data (in XY format).

Thanks

johnsoevans

I dont know a direct way.

If you have a lot of files you could just use a command line/batch file to strip the information. If you have a linux shell on your pc you could e.g use the tail command. If you want to retain the header information you can just put a ‘ at the start of those lines. Something like the sed command would do that. Or you could do it in a couple of lines of python.

alancoelho

If you send me the details then I will write a small program and put on the web for downloading from http://www.topas-academic.net/. I need to know things like:

- is the hearder always there
- is there a special character
- is the header a variable number of lines
- etc...

Also, I think it may be worthwhile to try and do it yourself as a little bit of computer literacy goes a long way.

rowlesmr

TOPAS ignores lines in files that begin with '

You could write a small program that just adds that to the beginning of lines you want TOPAS to ignore.

matsmcfly

I have a small python script to do this, if it would be useful to anyone one here please get in touch and I will be happy to share. Also, if the admins are happy for this I can email directly to them or share on this thread?

johnsoevans

I'm not sure if the forum would allow a .py upload. It might be best to just link to it, or put it on the topas wiki with a link? If it's short code it could just go in a text box on a wiki page. If it's longer I could upload it so it can be downloaded directly from the wiki.