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Downloading and importing grid data can be time consuming, and the data can take up much space in the database. If one is connected to the archive (and will be the next time the data is to be used), it is also possible to only import a reference to the data by selecting 'Import grids as reference'. Once the user decides to download import the grid data, the grid data will not be downloaded but only a reference to the where the data can be found in the archive will be stored. When the data is needed in the FEWS system, because for example when the user wants to visualize the data or use it in a workflow, then the this data will be is downloaded (streamed) by using the stored reference. The data will be stored in the local cache and is not be stored into the database.
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