Copy vs Move vs Link

When you right click and drag a file from one folder to another you are presented with three options: copy, move, or link. Well, technically there is a fourth option--cancel--but that one should be self explanatory.

In this Wiki I will quickly define the difference between these three options.

Copy 
Choosing copy will create a brand new audio asset. This asset is an exact copy of the original item data (I.E. audio/text/info) but has a unique item code and will function fully independent of the original asset. In a sense, a copy is the same as using "Save As" with out having to actually open the item. Deleting a copy of the item will NOT affect the original.

Move 
Choosing move will move the item from one category to another. The item content is not changed in any way, shape, or form. The item code stays the same, the in edit to the file is permanent--the asset is what it is, simply in another folder. Deleting a moved item will remove that item from the system--as it was moved, it is still the original, single existence of that asset.

Link 
Choosing link will create a short cut to the file in the chosen folder. There continues to only be one instance of that file, but linking it to the folder creates a pointer back to the original. Double clicking the link will open the original file, any edits will permanently change the original. Using the link feature allows you to create a pointer for others to see/use, or to trigger a process (such as a proxy process or link to MusicMaster) with out moving the original file from its home folder. Deleting a link will NOT delete the original item--it will simply remove that link from that category. On the flip side, deleting the original WILL remove all links--the link is a proxy for the asset, if that asset no longer exists the link also ceases to exist.

As always, if you have questions or need clarifications, please e-mail DaletHelp@mpr.org