> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://knowledge.illumina.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://knowledge.illumina.com/microarray/illumina-lims/microarray-illumina-lims-troubleshooting-list/000006271.md).
# How to look up file retention settings in Illumina LIMS Project Manager
The Illumina LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) facilitates high-throughput microarray processing and sample tracking through advanced automation and precise robotic control.
After BeadChips have been scanned and the scan data has been registered in LIMS, the system stores both the input files (DMAP files) and the output files generated during scanning (contained within the scan output folders). These files are not retained indefinitely. Instead, LIMS applies retention policies that determine how long each file type is stored within the system.
File retention settings can be viewed using the **LIMS Project Manager** application.
The following instructions describe how to view the file retention settings configured in Illumina LIMS. The retention period for files associated with a BeadChip begins once the BeadChip has progressed to the **Image BeadChip Completed** queue in LIMS.
1. Open the LIMS Project Manager.
2. Go to Tools > Administrator.
**Figure 1.** Navigating to Tools > Administratorin LIMS Project Manager.
3. Select the App Values.
**Figure 2.** Navigating to App Values within the Administration window.
4. Double-click 'File Retention' to expand, then click on the "+" signs next to "Decode File", "Image File" and "Imaging Metrics" to expand and view the retention time setting in days.
**Figure 3.** Reviewing file retention periods in theApp Values > File Retention section.
5. The number seen under each file type is the retention time for that file type in days. The default values is 60 for Decode Files (dmaps), 30 for Image Files (.jpeg), and 600 for Imaging Metrics files.
**Reference:**
[Illumina LIMS Project Manager Guide Revision D](https://support.illumina.com/downloads/illumina_lims_project_manager_guide_\(15000396_c\).html)
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