Open a transformation

The method you use to open an existing transformation depends on if you are using PDI locally on your machine or if you are connected to a repository. If you are connected to a repository, then you are remotely accessing your file on the Pentaho Server. Optionally, you can open a transformation on a Virtual File System (VFS).

Note: If you get a message indicating that a plugin is missing, see the Troubleshooting transformation steps and job entries section for more details.

If you recently had a file open, you can also use File > Open Recent.

On your local machine

Follow these instructions to open a transformation on your local machine.

1. In the PDI client, perform one of the following actions:

   • Select File > Open.

   • Click the Open file icon in the toolbar.

   • Hold down the CTRL O keys.

2. Select the file from the Open window, then click Open.

The Open window closes when your transformation appears in the canvas.

In the Pentaho Repository

Follow these instructions to access a transformation in the Pentaho Repository.

1. Verify that you are connected to a repository, which establishes remote access to the Pentaho Server.

2. In the PDI client, perform one of the following actions to access the Open repository browser window:

   • Select File > Open.

   • Click the Open file icon in the toolbar.

   • Hold down the CTRL O keys.

3. If you recently opened a file, use Recents to navigate to your transformation.

4. Use either the search box to find your transformation, or use the left panel to navigate to a repository folder containing your transformation.

5. Perform one of the following actions:

   • Double-click on your transformation.

   • Select it and press the Enter key.

   • Select it and click Open.

The Open window closes when your transformation appears in the canvas.

Note: If you select a folder or file in the Open window, you can click on it again to rename it.

On Virtual File Systems

From the menu bar in the PDI client, select File > Open URL to open a PDI transformation on a Virtual File System (VFS). See Connecting to Virtual File Systems for details.