Clarity File Storage and Organization: A Complete Guide

Clarity is a professional chromatography data system (CDS) developed by DataApex. This article provides a technical guide to how Clarity organizes and stores its files. You will learn about each key directory, the types of data stored, best practices for backup and transfer, and file dependencies that must be preserved.

🗂️ Main Folder Structure

Once Clarity is installed, several important folders are created within the installation directory:

1. Bin Folder

• Contains the Clarity software executable files and essential utilities:
  • IQ (Installation Qualification)
  • Launch Manager
• No user modification or backup is needed here.

2. CFG (Configuration) Folder

• Stores station configuration and user-specific settings.
• Includes:
  • Device configuration files
  • User layout files (.DSK)
  • Audit trails
  • Diagnostic data
• Essential for backup and station transfer.

3. DataFiles Folder

• Stores all chromatographic measurement data.
• Organized by projects—details provided in the next section.

4. Documentation Folder

• Includes data sheets, user manuals, and relevant documents for the installed software version.

5. uninstall.exe

• Used to uninstall Clarity from the system.

What Should Be Backed Up?

When backing up or transferring a Clarity installation, it is critical to retain the following:

• The entire CFG folder – contains configuration, settings, and audit data.
• The DataFiles folder – contains all project data and chromatograms.
• Key files:
  • configuration.cfg – station/device setup
  • desktop.dsk – user interface layout
  • clarity.psw – password storage

Understanding the DataFiles Folder Structure

Clarity uses a project-based architecture for storing measurement data. The structure of the DataFiles folder is as follows:

Top-Level Contents of DataFiles

DataApex: Table 1 Top-Level Contents of DataFiles

Inside a Project Folder

Each project folder contains the following:

• Main project directory:
  • Method files (*.met)
  • Sequence files (*.sqt)
  • SST files (*.sst)
• Subfolders (created by default):
  • Calib – for calibration chromatograms and standards
  • Data – for unknown samples and bypass measurements

Users may create subfolders inside Calib and Data for better organization by date, sample type, etc.

⚠️ Important: Do not create subfolders outside of Calib and Data. Improper structure may break internal file links and lead to system errors.

📁 Example Files and Their Functions

DataApex: Table 2 Example Files and Their Functions

Best Practices

• Regularly back up both CFG and DataFiles folders.
• When transferring Clarity to a new PC:
  1. Install Clarity as usual.
  2. Copy over the CFG and DataFiles folders.
• Avoid moving or editing files manually outside of permitted folders (Calib, Data).

Conclusion

Proper file management in Clarity ensures a stable and reliable workflow. By following the recommended folder structure and backup strategy, users can safeguard their analytical data, simplify system migration, and avoid common issues.