File Formats & Usage Guide

Understanding the differences between CSV, XLSX, SVG, and PDF template formats

CSV Format

Text-based

Best For:

  • Data import/export
  • Programming and automation
  • Database integration
  • Version control systems

Advantages:

  • Universal compatibility
  • Small file size
  • Human-readable
  • Easy to edit with any text editor

Sample Structure:

,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
A,,,,,,,,,,,
B,,,,,,,,,,,
C,,,,,,,,,,,
D,,,,,,,,,,,
E,,,,,,,,,,,
F,,,,,,,,,,,
G,,,,,,,,,,,
H,,,,,,,,,,,

XLSX Format

Spreadsheet

Best For:

  • Excel-based workflows
  • Complex formatting needs
  • Data analysis and calculations
  • Professional reporting

Advantages:

  • Rich formatting options
  • Native Excel compatibility
  • Supports formulas and calculations
  • Multiple sheets possible

Example Features:

1 2 3 4
A Sample 1 Blank Ctrl+ Sample 2
B Sample 3 Blank Ctrl- Sample 4

Color coding and formatting preserved

SVG Format

Vector

Best For:

  • Presentations and publications
  • High-quality printing
  • Web display
  • Scalable graphics

Advantages:

  • Infinite scalability
  • Small file size
  • Editable in vector software
  • Web-compatible
A1 A2 A3 B1 B2 B3

Scalable vector graphics with precise positioning

PDF Format

Print-ready

Best For:

  • Laboratory printouts
  • Protocol documentation
  • Archival storage
  • Sharing with external parties

Advantages:

  • Consistent appearance across devices
  • Print-optimized layout
  • Secure and tamper-evident
  • Self-contained document

Print Features:

  • Correct scale (1:1 ratio)
  • Laboratory-grade paper compatibility
  • Clear well identification
  • Margin guides for cutting

Usage Instructions

Importing CSV into Excel

  1. Open Microsoft Excel
  2. Go to Data → From Text/CSV
  3. Select your CSV file
  4. Choose Comma as delimiter
  5. Click Load
# PowerShell command to convert CSV to Excel
Import-Csv "plate-template.csv" | Export-Excel "plate-template.xlsx"

Opening SVG in Vector Editors

Adobe Illustrator:

  1. File → Open
  2. Select SVG file
  3. Import settings: Keep defaults

Inkscape (Free):

  1. File → Open
  2. Select SVG file
  3. Edit as needed
<!-- SVG can be embedded directly in HTML -->
<svg width="100" height="100">
  <rect x="0" y="0" width="20" height="20" fill="#0f6b66"/>
</svg>

Printing PDF at Correct Scale

  1. Open PDF in Adobe Reader or browser
  2. Go to File → Print
  3. Select Actual Size (not "Fit to Page")
  4. Use Portrait orientation
  5. Check "Print as Image" if needed

Print Tips:

  • Use 300 DPI or higher
  • White or light-colored paper recommended
  • Laser printer preferred for precision

Sample Files

Download sample templates to see the structure of each format:

Sample XLSX Sample CSV Sample SVG Sample PDF

Accessibility & Reproducibility Checklist