FCS basics
Understanding FCS metadata before editing
Inspect file metadata and measurement-channel definitions before making a working copy.
An FCS file contains descriptive metadata and event measurements. Metadata helps explain channel definitions and file structure; it does not, by itself, prove the provenance of experimental results.
Start with the source file
Keep the original acquisition file unchanged. Review channel names, parameters, event count and the available acquisition keywords. Check whether the file matches the record you intended to use.
Review the measurements in context
Use histograms and scatter plots alongside the channel definitions. A label alone does not establish how a value was acquired or processed.
Before changing anything
Record the software version and the purpose of your edit. Save a separate output and compare it with the source. Explore FCS Editor metadata inspection or view demonstrations when available.