How to Iteratively Read SDF Files Using Flow Variables in SDF Reader (2025 KNIME)

KNIME Analytics Platform
1

Hi everyone,

I’m trying to iteratively read a set of .sdf files from a folder using a modern KNIME workflow with:

  • List Files/Folders
  • Table Row to Variable Loop Start

This setup generates a path or URI flow variable for each file. However, the current SDF Reader node (as of KNIME 2025) no longer has an obvious field or dropdown in the Flow Variables tab to bind the input file path (e.g., filename, url, or path) like older versions did.

I’ve seen this older post from 2012, but it doesn’t seem applicable to the updated node behavior.

My questions:

  • How can I pass a file path or URI from a variable into the new SDF Reader node?
  • Is there a workaround or a preferred modern alternative for iteratively reading SDF files using flow variables?

Thanks in advance!

2

Hi @steliad

I created a small workflow that shows you how to read in SD files in a loop HERE.

The SDF Reader node is unfortunately not migrated to the new file handling framework yet, aka it can’t deal with the path data type (only custom/KNIME urls) and also hasn’t the amenities of browsing like the newer Reader nodes. It definitely needs a rework.

Hope that workaround helps you anyways though :slight_smile:

Best,
Alice

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