# Preparing raw acquisitions
Some *TOFWERK TOFexplorer* `.h5` files contain raw TOF detection events but no integrated ion maps. This is typically the case if the raw acquisition has never been analyzed in *TOFexplorer*, which adds information about integrated peak windows into the file. ToFScope can still read these "raw" files and prepare a new copy by integrating the peak windows recorded in the file. The original acquisition remains unchanged.
# Prepare a copy
When you open a raw acquisition without ion maps, ToFScope shows a preparation preview before starting:
1. Review the [number of peak windows and frames](#preparation-scope) and the [required free space](#preparation-space). Preparation can take several minutes, and the final size depends on compression.
2. Check or change the [prepared filename](#preparation-filename) and review the displayed destination folder.
3. Select [**Prepare and open**](#preparation-start) to create and open the copy, or **Back to files** to return without preparing it. Progress and cancellation controls are shown while preparation is running.
The preparation preview describes the work, space required, and destination before creating a copy.
The prepared copy retains raw events and metadata. If the file lacks timing or channel metadata, the preview describes the fallback assumptions; continue only if they are appropriate for the acquisition, because incorrect assumptions can produce incorrect counts.
# Understand the limits
Only channels present in the raw peak table can be reconstructed automatically. Note: strict numerical equivalence with the commercial software is not guaranteed.
Technical documentation
