When columns in a MassLynx sample list are added or removed, will future sample lists have the same layout? - WKB24012

ENVIRONMENT

MassLynx 4.1; all SCNs

ANSWER

Quick answer: The format remains current until a sample list file is opened that has a different sample list format applied to it.

The format of the MassLynx sample list (the fields that are displayed, their order and width) can be saved as a format file (.fmt). This is independent of the sample list file (.spl) itself, which includes only the content of the sample list, such as sample IDs and file names.

Format files are useful if MassLynx users want to be able to use their own customized layouts, or if different layouts are required for different applications or projects. For any sample list file that is open, you can load a sample list format file so that a specific format is displayed. However, to permanently associate the format with that specific sample list, you must then save the sample list file. That way, next time you open that sample list, the required format will be displayed.

If you change the format of the sample list, the new format remains current until a different sample list is opened that has had a sample list format file previously applied to it. So, if you set up a specific format, and then every day create a new sample list (using File > New), the format will never change. However, if you decide to open the default sample list, for example, the format of the sample list changes to the default. This is because the default sample list has the default format file applied to it.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION