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The Folder provider type allows you to connect to a specific folder to retrieve and display its file content. You can include all files or filter them based on extensions. Subfolders can also be included if needed.

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Steps to Add/Modify a Folder Connection in PADS4

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1. Start the Data Provider Wizard

  • Open the Data Provider Wizard by following the instructions in Adding a Data Provider or Editing a Data Provider.
  • Select Folder as the provider type.

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2. Specify Folder Connection Settings

  • Choose one of the following source options:
    • Content Library: Uses a folder from the PADS4 Content Library (Recommended).
    • Folder: Uses a folder outside the content library.
  • Enter the Folder Path:
    • If using Content Library, provide the relative path.
    • If using an external folder, provide the absolute path (e.g., C:\MyFolder).
    • Use the Browse button to locate the folder.
  • Include Subfolders (Optional)
    • Enable this option to include files from subfolders of the selected folder.
  • Set File Filters
    • Use Search Extension Restriction to filter specific file types (e.g., .jpg, .png, .mp4).
  • Sort Files
    • Use Sorting File List settings to define the sorting order.

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3. Finalize the Connection

  • Click Next to proceed.
  • Complete the wizard as described in Adding a Data Provider.

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Best Practices

  • Use the PADS4 Content Library
    • Files in the Content Library are automatically synchronized across all PADS4 systems.
    • If you use an external folder, you must manually distribute the files across systems.
  • Avoid Shared Network Folders
    • Network traffic may increase when using a mapped drive or UNC path (\\server\folder).
    • This can slow down the Viewer performance when retrieving file lists or loading content.
  • Sorting Rules
    • Folder-specific sorting applies first.
    • Generic sorting (set in later wizard steps) overrides folder sorting.

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Important Considerations

  • Data Server Access
    • If using a PADS4 Data Server, ensure the folder is accessible from the server’s point of view.
    • If not using a Data Server, each PADS4 Designer and Viewer must have direct access to the folder.
By following these steps, you can successfully connect a folder and retrieve its contents for use in digital signage presentations.