EasyPopulate 4.0 Support Thread

I get the same red text error messages. I've ignored them and all works fine. I did discover that your upload file name cannot have spaces in the name. For example new products.csv will not work. Use instead newproducts.csv

g2ktcf:

I just installed Easy Populate 4.0.37.13. I was able to download the products file and open it in OpenOffice. But, I am getting all kinds of warnings in the log files. Many of these warnings are related to the image below where undefined constants show up and "no supported file types." I created a new folder in Admin /temp. I copied the .htaccess file into that newly created (empty?) folder. Just wondering if I did anything wrong.

Also, I noticed a few folks having issues in previous posts about things not uploading. Is this still an ongoing issue? I need to upload about 150 products before the end of the day! :O

Perhaps that text could be changed (the text in red) to be in some other way descriptive. What is done on that part of the screen is to provide the file naming prefix that is needed to process that type of file and indicate below that section what file (if any) is processable by that filter. For the user that has determined that the extra info is of no use, there is a configuration option to hide the sections not used or if so desired to return to the original distribution that would only show filenames with no extra assistance. That switch option is titled: Show all EP4 Filetypes with Files.

As for import issues? If this is/was a default install, none of those configuration settings have been modified before attempting upload, and the headings of the import file reflect those of the default export file, then yes there will be an import "problem". I would have thought that through review of those two discussions one would be able to determine the action necessary to prevent the "issue" and even once I release 4.0.38, there will still be the possibility of such a problem because the software is being made to support being more flexible/capable.

Let me once again put it simply. In a default install of 4.0.37.13, change the configuration setting for 'Import Language Override" so that it includes the language dependent field identifiers in the import file. I.e.: language_code_only (desired fields to import will only be reviewed if they end with a language code, e.g. products_name_en), language_id_only (desired fields to import will only be those that end with a language id, e.g. products_name_1) or in the case where both types could exist, which of them is preferred realizing that if the preferred method is not present but the alternate is that the alternate will be used.

Again even simpler than trying to understand how to use the software, in a default install, if the exported file is used to create a new import then change the EP4 configuration setting for "import Language Override" to any other setting. I suggest doing so with understanding, but free to do what is desired.

As far as errors in the log files, I have on php 8.0 with a fresh install only found one case of logs being generated which was the use of a constant that wasn't defined prior to clicking the update or install link while reloading the EP4 tools page which was described above recently and is corrected in 4.0.38.

As far as the htaccess file consideration, as of Zen Cart 1.5.7, no such htaccess file is needed in the admin of a default installed store and if the folder is to be placed on the catalog side, no such file would be needed unless changes from a default install have precluded csv files from download/access.

As for release of 4.0.38, I'm trying to work through some perceived issues with the new zc_plugins directory and software structure that works for default users but may cause problems for those that have gotten creative with say folder names within the store's structure. I want the software to be as easily modifiable as possible to ensure operation in both conditions and to update/modify as necessary to ease support as it becomes used more. Right at this moment I've considered adding internal folder references and then evaluate during installation if/how differences exist between the expected folder paths and current paths.

Ok, you made it past that paragraph, what I would like is if some alternate text could be provided to clarify the above red text about "No Supported Data Files". Either changing that text or providing a little info associated with this "table" to amplify what data is being shown. Please do so asap so that I can incorporate into 4.0.38.

mc12345678:

Perhaps that text could be changed (the text in red) to be in some other way descriptive. What is done on that part of the screen is to provide the file naming prefix that is needed to process that type of file and indicate below that section what file (if any) is processable by that filter. For the user that has determined that the extra info is of no use, there is a configuration option to hide the sections not used or if so desired to return to the original distribution that would only show filenames with no extra assistance. That switch option is titled: Show all EP4 Filetypes with Files.

As for import issues? If this is/was a default install, none of those configuration settings have been modified before attempting upload, and the headings of the import file reflect those of the default export file, then yes there will be an import "problem". I would have thought that through review of those two discussions one would be able to determine the action necessary to prevent the "issue" and even once I release 4.0.38, there will still be the possibility of such a problem because the software is being made to support being more flexible/capable.

Let me once again put it simply. In a default install of 4.0.37.13, change the configuration setting for 'Import Language Override" so that it includes the language dependent field identifiers in the import file. I.e.: language_code_only (desired fields to import will only be reviewed if they end with a language code, e.g. products_name_en), language_id_only (desired fields to import will only be those that end with a language id, e.g. products_name_1) or in the case where both types could exist, which of them is preferred realizing that if the preferred method is not present but the alternate is that the alternate will be used.

Again even simpler than trying to understand how to use the software, in a default install, if the exported file is used to create a new import then change the EP4 configuration setting for "import Language Override" to any other setting. I suggest doing so with understanding, but free to do what is desired.

As far as errors in the log files, I have on php 8.0 with a fresh install only found one case of logs being generated which was the use of a constant that wasn't defined prior to clicking the update or install link while reloading the EP4 tools page which was described above recently and is corrected in 4.0.38.

As far as the htaccess file consideration, as of Zen Cart 1.5.7, no such htaccess file is needed in the admin of a default installed store and if the folder is to be placed on the catalog side, no such file would be needed unless changes from a default install have precluded csv files from download/access.

As for release of 4.0.38, I'm trying to work through some perceived issues with the new zc_plugins directory and software structure that works for default users but may cause problems for those that have gotten creative with say folder names within the store's structure. I want the software to be as easily modifiable as possible to ensure operation in both conditions and to update/modify as necessary to ease support as it becomes used more. Right at this moment I've considered adding internal folder references and then evaluate during installation if/how differences exist between the expected folder paths and current paths.

Ok, you made it past that paragraph, what I would like is if some alternate text could be provided to clarify the above red text about "No Supported Data Files". Either changing that text or providing a little info associated with this "table" to amplify what data is being shown. Please do so asap so that I can incorporate into 4.0.38..

After playing around with different import files and names, I finally understand how this new workflow handles files. That is what I was missing. Just to prove it, I added category-ep to a file and uploaded it, and, then is shows up instead of "No Supported Data Files." The text you have is fully understandable now. Might I suggest "No Supported Data Files Uploaded"?

g2ktcf:

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After playing around with different import files and names, I finally understand how this new workflow handles files. That is what I was missing. Just to prove it, I added category-ep to a file and uploaded it, and, then is shows up instead of "No Supported Data Files." The text you have is fully understandable now. Might I suggest "No Supported Data Files Uploaded"?
Hate to interupt brainstorming. Can you or others think of some additional ideas? It doesn't have to be just adding a single word. Whatever would minimize confusion of the absence of filenames where the "guide" for filename prefix is present.

While I might also consider changing the color, I've come to learn through the guidance of others on this site that color changes/differences should be used with care as there is an effort to sustain visibility for those with difficulting seeing colors or color differences.

Just FYI, I was having similar issues to the previous poster in regards to the language import settings. After going back over the previous threads and changing the Import Language Override: language_id, everything started working fine.

Thanks!

mc12345678:

Hate to interupt brainstorming. Can you or others think of some additional ideas? It doesn't have to be just adding a single word. Whatever would minimize confusion of the absence of filenames where the "guide" for filename prefix is present.

While I might also consider changing the color, I've come to learn through the guidance of others on this site that color changes/differences should be used with care as there is an effort to sustain visibility for those with difficulting seeing colors or color differences.

well, the intent is to show that there are no "applicable" files for that filter...First off, yes, red is typically a "you messed up color" so I would think something in blue would work. "No Filter Specific Files Found in Uploads Folder"...you could show that folder path if it helps. BTW, I have a partial Red/Green color deficiency but I have no problems with PURE reds and greens.

g2ktcf:

Just FYI, I was having similar issues to the previous poster in regards to the language import settings. After going back over the previous threads and changing the Import Language Override: language_id, everything started working fine.

Thanks!
I've come to the mind that I am going to be establishing in new installs that language_id_only will be the default. The upgrade to 4.0.38 will not change the setting from those using 4.0.37.13, but the text about what is the default will change.

So the reason? Well, while adding capability and functionality is an improvement, there are too many that have already established their process. It may/may not include a column of text that uses or has a field that follows the language_code format (_en), but I'd rather this capability be considered a "secret" feature than a store's problem.

Another that has adapted/added to EP4 in support of the book product type had previously suggested that this feature just should not exist. At the same time I have seen and experienced the confusion that can exist by use of the database driven language_id instead of the international use of the language_code. But, in the improvement of the software, it is/was a feature seen as needed. Unfortunately I completely botched the default settings... I THOUGHT they were set right, but I was abhorrently wrong. I did also consider making a single switch that controlled both import and export together, but that to me seemed too restrictive and prone to its own issues.

And, while not addressed recently. One should consider that if an issue wasn't readily identified in the past that perhaps the issue is only from a recent change and often, I would say that a problem experienced "now" with the latest software is either directly because of the latest change or perhaps was not made known as an issue in the past... meaning, search of the posts beyond the latest release is not (or should not?) likely reveal assistance on those issues sought. That is if the issue is with the expected "normal" operation.

Hopefully now that the import/export discrepancy has been described at least three different ways, that until 4.0.38 or newer is installed over 4.0.37.13 that the situation can be more clearly understood/corrected.

g2ktcf:

well, the intent is to show that there are no "applicable" files for that filter...First off, yes, red is typically a "you messed up color" so I would think something in blue would work. "No Filter Specific Files Found in Uploads Folder"...you could show that folder path if it helps. BTW, I have a partial Red/Green color deficiency but I have no problems with PURE reds and greens.

This info is all about one's "perspective". I've not wanted to use the word Upload, because selecting one of the export filters creates a file for the associated filter area and while it could then be uploaded, it also could be downloaded. For some, that folder is used just for that perspective such as for data updates to external sources.

Again, don't want to give up on something new/more appropriate, just because "now" it makes sense, the goal is for it to make sense without discussion.

Note, the folder "path" is shown in the upper right hand corner of theadmin screen. Doesn't or isn't expected to show the true admin folder name, but...

I spent 6 hours today trying to get this plugin to work. Spreadsheet shows all lines with same values as the 2 line template downloaded, yet it will not create the items when uploads. All I get is an error message that there is no category for this product for 68 items in the spreadsheet. If one has to use openoffice to make this work, then that is a problem. Either make it work with MS or change the file format to text so that the excel import wizard will fire up and ask for delimiters. CSV files will not start the import wizard. Im exhausted.

pixelpadre:

I spent 6 hours today trying to get this plugin to work. Spreadsheet shows all lines with same values as the 2 line template downloaded, yet it will not create the items when uploads. All I get is an error message that there is no category for this product for 68 items in the spreadsheet. If one has to use openoffice to make this work, then that is a problem. Either make it work with MS or change the file format to text so that the excel import wizard will fire up and ask for delimiters. CSV files will not start the import wizard. Im exhausted.

Please follow the links at this post. This issue has been discussed multiple times within this thread already.

Shortcut? Within the Admin of your Zen Cart Version, please select the configuration menu option, scroll down to Easy Populate V4 and open it.
at the fourth option down, select to edit the menu option Import Language Override?
Assuming that you are using a "normal" or "historical" type csv file/field-naming convention, change the value to anything other than the EP4.0.37.13 installation default of language_code_only. That is, the value selected should in some way represent the language type identifier that you are using in your file. The default import was incorrectly set to language_code_only. That setting requires fields to include the language_code (en, de, es, etc...). Good ole' EP4 uses the language_id and the default export was set to use language_id.

The new default will be language_id_only in the next distribution.

For those that have already installed, read through this forum about the recent release (huge) ISSUE, the next upgrade will not adjust whatever value is currently set, but the description will be updated to identify the new default. Default for export and import will match at using the historical language_id.

Seems like that worked. You should delete the previous 3,000 posts and start from here.

I am trying to create an csv order upload for Shippo. When I use the orders download from EP4 all I am getting is headers only...no orders even when I select status that have orders. Any idea where to start looking for the issue? I do not see a date range on that so I assume it is all based on order statuses.

mc12345678:

A review of recent posts may have revealed the direction provided here: https://www.zen-cart.com/showthread.php?190417-EasyPopulate-4-0-Support-Thread&p=1381452#post1381452

Again, the problem is/was (most likely) the default settings were set incorrectly. I have two improvements to make and then I will be uploading an updated copy that won't start off that way.

I've changed the menu option Import Language Override to language_id, and I'm still getting the same result: when I click the Import button, I get redirected to the admin main page and nothing has been imported; also no errors anywhere. This also happens if I click the Delete button.

g2ktcf:

I am trying to create an csv order upload for Shippo. When I use the orders download from EP4 all I am getting is headers only...no orders even when I select status that have orders. Any idea where to start looking for the issue? I do not see a date range on that so I assume it is all based on order statuses.

Sadly, through a lack of investigation/support, the orders aspect of EP4 has not been flushed out. The overall functionality is not present because no level of consensus of the output file format was even closely identified. The "functionality" (selection?) though remained because I suspect others may have completed the effort and not shared their work, but I also didn't want to make it difficult for them to retain what they had done... Without a good output format, it is difficult to develop an import format. BTW, this "feature" was added back in rev 4.0.31a to try to begin/further the ability. V4.0.31 was announced released in August of 2015 and at this post: https://www.zen-cart.com/showthread.php?190417-EasyPopulate-4-0-Support-Thread&p=1291133#post1291133. V4.0.31a is in github at: https://github.com/mc12345678/EasyPopulate-4.0/blob/4.0.31a_posted. I would have to research further to provide more historical perspective.

There are other plugins that provide that feature in its entirety and I likely could flush out the operation from one/more of those, but...

Reviresco:

I've changed the menu option Import Language Override to language_id, and I'm still getting the same result: when I click the Import button, I get redirected to the admin main page and nothing has been imported; also no errors anywhere. This also happens if I click the Delete button.
What's the name of the file? I am assuming that it has a space in it...

mc12345678:

Sadly, through a lack of investigation/support, the orders aspect of EP4 has not been flushed out. The overall functionality is not present because no level of consensus of the output file format was even closely identified. The "functionality" (selection?) though remained because I suspect others may have completed the effort and not shared their work, but I also didn't want to make it difficult for them to retain what they had done... Without a good output format, it is difficult to develop an import format. BTW, this "feature" was added back in rev 4.0.31a to try to begin/further the ability. V4.0.31 was announced released in August of 2015 and at this post: https://www.zen-cart.com/showthread.php?190417-EasyPopulate-4-0-Support-Thread&p=1291133#post1291133. V4.0.31a is in github at: https://github.com/mc12345678/EasyPopulate-4.0/blob/4.0.31a_posted. I would have to research further to provide more historical perspective.

There are other plugins that provide that feature in its entirety and I likely could flush out the operation from one/more of those, but...

which plugin?

g2ktcf:

which plugin?
Hmmm.. I guess I again have been foiled by this search... I came across this thread (from many years ago) about the import difficulty associated with orders... Export is one thing (and there are export utilities), but import involves a huge amount of manipulation though not to say it isn't possible, it isn't made freely... There are some tools that would help with mapping fields to database areas and such have been discussed herein, but please take a look at this old post about the effort involved with the import process: https://www.zen-cart.com/showthread.php?150252-Anyone-know-how-to-import-orders-into-Zencart&p=855942#post855942

That's just on the interrelationship of data...

The real question here is, what is the need for this import? Is this presumably related to a store upgrade or what is the associated need?

I just want to EXPORT so I can import the shipping info from my store into Shippo since that their API is so old.

g2ktcf:

I just want to EXPORT so I can import the shipping info from my store into Shippo since that their API is so old.
Ohhh... Darnit, I deleted the link that I had found for Orders Exporter. Sorry... I went too far into the "dilemma". :)

mc12345678:

What's the name of the file? I am assuming that it has a space in it...

She-Loves-Color-Secret-Shop-2021.csv