View File metadata
When you open a File object, you’ll see:
- Created and modified timestamps
- File size
- File origin (e.g. Connection)
- Original filename (modifiable in Benchling)
- Available actions: Download, Archive, View Audit Log, Run as part of an Analysis Template
Uploading Files into Benchling
Files can be uploaded manually into Benchling from the Left Navigation.
To create a new File:
- Go to the Left Navigation
- Select Create (+) icon
- Search for File or select More and navigate to File
- When creating the File:
- you will be prompted to select Location (Folder location of the File object)
- Upload the File from your local machine
Using Files in Runs
File objects can be used as inputs in process runs.
Based on your run schema:
- Benchling detects and previews the original file
- When processed, a new File object and Blob are created
- The output appears in the run’s “Output file” field with the name format [Original File Name]_[Instrument Data Type]
Using Files in Analysis Templates
File objects can be used as inputs in Analysis Templates.
To create a new Analysis from a Analysis Template with a File input (from the File Object):
- Within the File object, select the lightbulb icon
(Run Analysis Template)
-
A modal will open that prompts to:
- Select Analysis Template (searchable),
- Name Analysis that will be created (Name field will automatically be suggested as "Analyze_[File_Name]",
- Select Project Folder
- Click Create
After the Analysis is created, the Analysis will automatically open for review of the steps completed
Frequently asked questions
Q: What happens if I delete the original file from my local machine?
A: Once synced, the File object remains in Benchling even if the local version is deleted.
Q: What if I’m using a generic file watcher?
A: For generic runs, the processed result is still stored as a blob attachment.
Q: What happens if I changed the Folder used as the File origin (e.g., in the Connection), are Files moved automatically to the new location?
A: Files will not move automatically if the folder used in the Connection is updated. If needed, files can be moved in bulk to the new Folder location used in the Connection.
Feedback & future support
We’re exploring broader support for converting blob attachments to Files. If this impacts your workflows, let us know! Reach out to Benchling Support or to your Customer Success Team.