Create Reference Database From User Data

In addition (or as an alternative) to using the "classical" reference databases like ICDD PDF or COD, it is also possible to use own diffraction patterns in phase analysis. Before you can do so, you have to store your corresponding diffraction patterns and/or crystal structure data sets in a so-called "user database" file (file extension *.mtu), e.g. using the so-called "User Database Manager" dialog. If you have not already done so, please follow these instructions first, in order to create the mtu-file from your data. Afterwards, please return to this point and continue reading.

First of all, please make sure to display the Reference Database Library dialog, then click on the "Create" button at its bottom, in order to display the "Create Reference Database" dialog.

In order to use an existing user database file (*.mtu) as reference database, you first have to tell Match! that you would like to apply a user database, by marking the corresponding option in the middle of the "Create Reference Database" dialog. Afterwards, you have to select the location of the *.mtu file, by pressing the button "Select user database file (*.mtu)" to the right of the corresponding input line "Location:".

A "File Open" dialog will be displayed in which you have to select the mtu-file in which your user data are stored. Afterwards, press "Open" to select the file/directory and return to the "Create Reference Database" dialog. The location of the mtu-file will now be displayed in the corresponding input box.

If you like, you can change the name of the new reference database at the bottom of the dialog (deactivate the corresponding "Automatic" checkbox first!), and/or change the location (directory) in which the index files for the new reference database shall be stored. Normally, Match! will automatically create a suitable name and select an appropriate directory.

In case you have administrator privileges, you can also select if you would like to make the new reference database available to all users (or only to you), and if you would like to make it the default Match! reference database for new users on your PC.

Please note that on Windows it is not sufficient to run Match! from an administrator account; you have to explicitly use the command "Run as administrator" (which is available e.g. in the context-menu (click right mouse button)) in order to enable the two options "Create for all users" and "Select as default for all users without own selection"!
On Linux, you have to use "su" or "sudo" in order to run Match! with "root" privileges and enable these two options.

Once you have made your selections, press the "OK" button at the bottom to start the creation of the index files. A small window will display the progress of the indexation. Depending on the amount of data which have to be read and sorted, the creation of index files may be a rather time consuming process. The procedure may take between a few minutes to an hour or even more, depending especially on the drive access and processing speed of your computer.

When the indexation has finished, a corresponding message will be displayed. Afterwards, the new reference database will appear in the Reference Database Library.

If the new reference database is the only one available in the Reference Database Library, it is selected for being used automatically. Otherwise, you have to select the new reference database manually.

Please note: