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Getting Started

The GDC Data Transfer Tool: An Overview

Raw sequence data, stored as BAM files, make up the bulk of data stored at the NCI Genomic Data Commons (GDC). The size of a single file can vary greatly. Most BAM files stored in the GDC are in the 50 MB - 40 GB size range, with some of the whole genome BAM files reaching sizes of 200-300 GB.

The GDC Data Transfer Tool, a command-line driven application, provides an optimized method of transferring data to and from the GDC and enables resumption of interrupted transfers.

Downloading the GDC Data Transfer Tool

System Recommendations

The system recommendations for using the GDC Data Transfer Tool are as follows:

  • OS: Linux (Ubuntu 16.x or later), OS X (10.9 Mavericks or later), or Windows (8 or later)
  • CPU: At least two 64-bit cores, Intel or AMD
  • RAM: At least 8 GiB
  • Storage: Enterprise-class storage system capable of at least 1 Gb/s (gigabit per second) write throughput and sufficient free space for BAM files.

Binary Distributions

Binary distributions are available on the GDC Transfer Tool page. To install the GDC Data Transfer Tool, download the respective binary distribution and unzip the distribution's archive to a location on the target system. It is recommended that the binary be copied to a located that is in the user's path so that is it accessible from any location within the terminal or command prompt.

Release Notes

Release Notes are available on the GDC Data Transfer Tool Release Notes Page.