> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.pads4.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Connecting a legacy JSON File

JSON (**JavaScript Object Notation**) is a widely used format for **storing and exchanging structured data**. In **PADS4**, JSON files can be used as **data sources** for real-time digital signage content.

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### **Steps to Add or Modify a JSON File Connection**

#### **1. Start the Data Provider Wizard**

* Open the **Data Provider Wizard** using the instructions in **Adding a Data Provider** or **Editing a Data Provider**.
* Select **JSON File** as the provider type.

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#### **2. Specify the JSON File Location**

* **Content Library** → Select this option to use a JSON file stored in the **PADS4 Content Library**.
* **File Name** → Choose this option to use a JSON file located **outside the content library**.
* Use the browse function to locate and select the desired JSON file.

**Recommendation**:\
If **not using a PADS4 Data Server**, it is best to store JSON files in the **PADS4 Content Library**. This ensures **automatic synchronization** across all connected computers. If a JSON file is **outside the library**, file distribution must be managed manually.

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#### **3. Configure Text Encoding**

* If the JSON file **requires a specific text encoding format**, select the appropriate option.

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#### **4. Configure Data Formatting**

* **Flatten Hierarchical Data** → If the JSON structure contains multiple levels, this option **flattens nested data** into a tabular format.
* **Include Parent Levels Column Names** → Appends parent-level names for **clearer hierarchical representation**.
* **Create Additional Columns Without HTML Tags** → Removes HTML tags from text fields and **converts them to plain text**.

Proceed to the next step.

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#### **5. Finalizing the JSON File Setup**

* Complete the data provider setup.

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## **Important Considerations**

* **Using PADS4 Data Server**
  * If a **PADS4 Data Server** is in use, ensure that the JSON file **is accessible** from the **server's point of view**.
  * If **not using a Data Server**, confirm that **PADS4 Designer and PADS4 Viewers** can access the specified JSON file location.

* **Handling Hierarchical JSON Data**
  * If the JSON structure contains multiple levels, enabling **Flatten Hierarchical Data** ensures better compatibility.

By following these steps, **PADS4 can seamlessly integrate and display JSON-based data** within digital signage presentations.