MacVector can read chromatogram (trace) files in a number of different formats. These types of files are recognized automatically - there is no need for specific extensions or file types. However, you may need to set the file open Show menu to All Documents to be able to see and select files transferred from other operating systems. Trace files do not generally support GenBank style features. When MacVector reads a trace file, it treats any annotations in the file as a comment. The trace sequence editor window is functionally equivalent to a normal DNA sequence editor window. You can perform any nucleic acid analysis on a trace sequence and even add features or annotations. However, if you try to save an edited trace sequence in one of the supported trace file formats, only the comment section will be included in the file.
ABI - including 373, 377 and 3700 formats
SCF - Staden Chromatogram Formats, versions 2 and 3
ALF - files generated by the Pharmacia ALF sequencer.
MacVector will also read Fastq data as generated by many next generation sequencers.