Import Results from an Excel File

Results can be imported directly from an Excel file, either automatically using an Import Template, as described in the Configure an Import Template activity, or manually when needed. This method allows users to manually match sample IDs and analyte schemes between AssayNet LIMS and an Excel result file before automatically loading the results based on the matches.

While most laboratories use a configured import template for automatic matching and loading (see Import Instrument Run Data), manual matching provides an alternative when the standard automated process cannot be applied, ensuring compatibility and data integrity.

This activity describes the steps for manually importing results from an Excel file.

Activity Steps

1. On the Job Book screen, click Instrument Runs.
2. Locate and select the Run ID.
3. Alternatively, use any AssayNet LIMS page to locate and select the corresponding Batch Code or Job Number.
   1. Click Working View, then locate and select the Run ID.

4. Click the Data command button.

   The Data Capture screen displays.

5. Click Import.

   The Data Source screen displays.

6. To import data from an Excel file:

   1. Set the Import Source to Excel Spreadsheet.
   2. Click OK.
   3. Locate and select the Excel file.

   The Import Analytical Data screen displays.

   4. Click the icon next to the Column Headings field.

   The selected Excel file opens, and the Select Range for Analytes screen displays.

   5. Select the required range for the analytes (columns) where results are recorded.
   6. Click OK.
   7. Click the icon next to the Row Headings field.

   The selected Excel file opens, and the Select Range for Samples screen displays.

   8. Select the required range for the samples (rows).
   9. Click OK.
   10. In the Data category, select the corresponding data type:
   • Values—Instrument reading results (default option)
   • Corrections—Adjustments applied to results for calibration errors or sample preparation deviations
   • Limits—Predefined thresholds to flag anomalies or ensuring compliance with quality standards
   • Dilution—The dilution factor used to calculate final concentrations
   11. In the Analyte category, select how analytes are categorized in the results file:
   • Scheme Code
   • Scheme Name
   • Analyte Symbol (default option)
   • Analyte Name
   12. In the Samples category, select the sample ID format in the result file:
   • Client ID—The name assigned by the client to each sample (default option).
   • Lab Code—A unique identifier combining the batch code and sequence number.
   13. Select from the following options as required:
   • Overwrite Existing Data—Replaces existing data during import.
   • Treat Non-Numeric Data as Zero—Converts non-numeric values to zero.
   • Fast Copy—Speeds up data duplication.
   • Auto-Match Analytes—Automatically matches analytes in the import file with those in the system.
   • Auto-Match Samples—Automatically matches sample IDs in the import file with those in the system.
   14. In the Orientation category, select the analyte layout:
   • Analytes in Rows—Analytes are arranged in rows within the result file.
   • Analytes in Columns—Analytes are arranged in columns within the result file.

   Note: If Analytes in Rows is selected, the grouping in the Data screen must be set to Sample. The default setting is Analytes.

   15. Click Next.

   The system displays analyte data from the instrument run and the spreadsheet in the Run and Spreadsheet sections. If Auto-Match Analytes is enabled, matched analytes appear in the bottom table.

   Note: No data is imported for unmatched headings. These must be manually matched.

   16. Click Next.

   The system displays sample ID data from the instrument run and the spreadsheet. If Auto-Match Samples is enabled, matched samples appear in the bottom table.

   17. To manually match unmatched analytes and sample IDs:
   1. Select values from the Run and Spreadsheet tables.
   2. Click the down arrow icon to match the selected values and send them to the bottom table.
   3. If all values should be matched, click the blue down arrow with a line at the end to send all values.
   4. Click Next.
   18. Click Finish and Close.

   The results are populated in the Data screen.