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Overview

Previously, the InPort XML Loader only supported the ability to update a Catalog Item by delineating the specific sections and fields that needed to be updated in the existing record.

Starting with Release 5.2.1 (August 2022), InPort now supports a new Catalog Item replacement feature when using the InPort XML Loader and other related loader-based functionality such as the Custom XML Loader and Batch XML Loader.

When used to update an existing Catalog Item, it will replace and completely overwrite the record with the contents of the loaded XML file, except for the Catalog Item ID and the history logs associated with the Catalog Item.

Special Note on Data Sets with Child Entities

If the Catalog Item being replaced is a Data Set with Child Entities, these Child Entities will be deleted and completely replaced with the Child Entities in the incoming XML file. Note that the Child Entity Catalog Item IDs will not be preserved; only the Data Set Catalog Item ID will be.

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Who Should Use the Replacement Feature?

The Catalog Item Replacement feature is primarily intended for InPort users who manage their metadata outside of InPort, and who would like to load updated, complete XML metadata files to keep their metadata up-to-date on InPort.

If you use the XML Loader to get your files on InPort, but make updates to the records thereafter in InPort, do not use the Replacement feature.

Additionally, if you want to use the XML Loader to update only specific fields or sections of your metadata records on InPort, do not turn on the Replacement feature.

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How to Use the Replacement Feature

Replacing an Existing Catalog Item from an InPort or Custom XML File

To replace an existing Catalog Item, navigate first to the Catalog Item in InPort. In the Item menu, select Update Item From File.

Select the appropriate source file type (InPort XML File or Custom XML File).

Note that Custom XML File uploads always use the Replacement Feature.

If you are uploading an InPort XML file, select Yes under Replace Existing Catalog Item.

Fill in the remaining fields appropriately, and click the Update button.

Replacing Existing Catalog Items with the Batch Loader

To replace existing Catalog Items with the Batch Loader, loader users must specify that the Replacement feature will be used in the XML files themselves, rather than through the UI.

This is accomplished in the <loader-options> section, with the configuration option, <replace-catalog-item/>.

Please consult the XML Loader documentation for examples and more information.

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