Chapter 1
1. What Data Wrangler is
Data Wrangler imports metadata into CatDV, a media asset management system. It reads comma separated values (CSV) and tab separated values (TSV) files. Each data row supplies values for one search and its resulting changes.
You configure three parts of the work:
- Search By finds existing CatDV assets using one or more source columns.
- Write To supplies metadata for assets that match, or for new assets.
- Match Handling decides what happens when the search finds no asset or several assets.
Every import is a job. Data Wrangler records row results in History, including matching asset identifiers and confirmed changes.
1.1 The desktop application
Open Data Wrangler, stage one file, and select Run file. Processing happens while the application is open. There is no watched folder or unattended schedule.
Data Wrangler sends requests to the CatDV application programming interface (API). Your CatDV account needs permission to search assets and make the changes you intend.
Data Wrangler changes metadata. A path rule changes a path value; it does not copy or move the media file.
1.2 Navigation
The left rail has three destinations:
| Destination | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Run | Stage a file, inspect the saved setup, and start an import |
| History | Find jobs and inspect row results |
| Settings | Configure the connection, mappings, path rules, policies, logging, and license information |
Inside Settings, select Connection, Field Mappings, Path Rules, Match Handling, Request Handling, Logging, or About.
At narrow window widths, use the navigation menu button. Press Escape to close navigation. The header theme button switches between light and dark themes.
1.3 Control Room
Control Room manages Data Wrangler installation, licensing, updates, and launch. Data Wrangler runs independently after installation. Closing Control Room does not stop an import.
This guide is for operators who prepare metadata tables and maintain CatDV. Ask your CatDV administrator for field identifiers, catalog identifiers, and account permissions.