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Download Participant Data

This guide covers how to prepare, download, and manage your Labfront data files, including tips for handling large datasets efficiently.


In this article:

How to prepare your data download

To begin, sign into your Labfront account and navigate to your Workspace.

  1. Select a Live Project.

  2. Click the downloadicon Download Data button in the top-right corner of the dashboard.

  3. You will be directed to the Download Settings page.

 
Download
 
 

Customize your data download file

You can tailor your download to include only the information you need:

Participants

By default, all participants are selected. You can manually check or uncheck specific individuals to include or exclude them.

Timeframe
Choose from preset options like the last 7 or 30 days, All Data, or a Custom Range.
 
HC_Data-download_settings


Important

For Labfront users on the Testing Plan, downloads are limited to a 30-day timeframe. To access unrestricted historical data, consider upgrading your plan.

 

Generating and downloading the data file

Once you've selected your parameters, look below the Download Data button to see the estimated ZIP file size and preparation time.

  • Start Preparation: Click Download Data.
HC_Data-download_button
  • Background processing: You don't need to stay on the page. Our updated system prepares the file in the background. You can monitor progress via the adherence dashboard.
    HC_Data-Download_Preparing
  • Retrieve your file: When ready, a notification will appear that your download is ready.
    HC_Data-download_Ready

Go to the Data Download page and click Download This File.

HC_Data-download_pop-up
 
Managing existing files

  • Recent Files: If you prepared a ZIP within the last 24 hours, you can download it immediately. Click Download This File.

  • Update Settings: Click this if you need to change participants or dates.

  • Get the Latest File: Click this to keep your current settings but include any new data synced since your last request.

Handling large data files

For large datasets, web browsers can sometimes struggle with stability. We recommend using a Download Manager (e.g., JDownloader). These tools are more reliable because they allow for:

  • Pausing and Resuming: No need to restart if your internet flickers.

  • Multi-chunk Downloading: Splits the file into pieces to maximize your download speed.

How to use a Download Manager:

  1. Install your chosen manager. Choose one that:

    • Supports the platform you use
    • Supports HTTPS protocol
    • Supports Download Acceleration
    • Has GUI if you don't know how to use command line
    • Non-Proprietary License is a plus

  2. In the manager settings, set "Chunks" or "Splits" per download to high (usually 10–20).

  3. Copy your Labfront download link and paste it into the manager to begin.

    HC_Data-Download_pop-up_link

 

 

Understanding your data

Once downloaded, your data is organized into specific folders and formats. To help you interpret the variables, refer to our specialized guides:

 

Professional Analytics Support

Our analytics team, led by Dr. Andrew Ahn, former Co-Director of Harvard's Center for Dynamical Biomarkers, comprises experts from this world-renowned lab. They bring decades of experience in analyzing and processing physiological data.

Check out our analytics services

 
 

Data Download FAQs

Do you offer any services to help analyze the data? 

We do! Our team of experts has over 20+ years of experience in digital biomarkers and research analytics. You can outsource your analytics to us and save up to several months of work. Learn more about Labfront Analytics here. 
 

Can I close my browser while Labfront prepares my data?

Yes. Labfront processes data downloads in the background. You can navigate away or close the tab; a notification will appear on your dashboard once the ZIP file is ready for download.
 

How do I update a data file I already prepared?

If you have a file from the last 24 hours, you can click "Get the Latest File" to refresh it with new data using the same settings, or "Update Settings" to change participants or dates.

I can't download a ZIP file from my work computer. What should I do?

In this case, we recommend you ask your IT department how to allow ZIP file extraction on your work computer. Alternatively, you can also download on another computer or device that allows for ZIP downloads as we can only provide ZIP files for data downloads. 
 

Why is my Labfront data download limited to 30 days?

Users on the Testing Plan have a 30-day data export limit. To download data from a longer duration or the entire project history, you must upgrade to a paid Labfront plan.

Can I see a sample of the downloadable data format? 

You sure can! Take a look at a sample of our data here. 
 

Can I download the data from any browser?

For optimal performance when downloading data, we recommend using Google Chrome or Firefox. Although our platform is compatible with all major browsers, Chrome and Firefox have been tested and shown to provide the best experience.

Can I download raw Garmin data or just aggregated data?

Yes, the device-direct raw data can be downloaded if you have an Advanced Plan. Here are example files of raw ACC, enhanced BBI and actigraphy.

On Basic plans, only the standard Garmin Connect data will be available to download.  

What is the best way to download large research datasets?

For large files, use a dedicated download manager like JDownloader. These tools prevent corruption by allowing you to pause/resume downloads and use multiple "chunks" to increase speed compared to a standard browser.

Where can I find definitions for Garmin data metrics in Labfront?

You can find detailed explanations in the Labfront Data Dictionary.

Why am I getting a "Path too long" error message when trying to download?

If you're seeing the error 0x80010135 (Path too long), here are a few quick ways to fix it:

  • Move the ZIP file to a shorter folder path
     Example: Move it to C:\Temp\ and try extracting again.
  • Use 7-Zip (free tool that handles long paths)
     Download 7-Zip, then right-click the ZIP file → 7-Zip > Extract to...
  • Rename the ZIP file to something shorter before unzipping.

These steps should help you access your CSV files without issues. 

Why am I getting a "NoModificationAllowedError" message when trying to download?

The "NoModificationAllowedError” usually means your browser wasn’t able to save the file to your system. This isn’t caused by the file itself, but by the state of your local system at the moment of download, such as the folder being briefly locked by syncing software, antivirus tools, or security policies.  We typically see this happen when a folder runs low on space, or when hospital networks or VDI setups limit browser write access.

 

To reduce errors, please try:

  • Change your default download folder to a standard writable location (e.g., Documents instead of Downloads) and check there’s enough disk space.

  • Try downloading in an Incognito/Private window (this bypasses browser extensions).

  • Temporarily disable antivirus “web shield” or safe-download features to test.

  • If you’re on a company computer, check with IT about download restrictions.

  • Test across browsers (Chrome is usually the most reliable for ZIPs and bulk downloads).