Actions3
- Vector Actions
Overview
The "Get Vector File" operation in the Vector resource is designed to retrieve a specific file associated with a vector store. This node is useful when you want to access or download files stored within a vector database or vector store system, such as embeddings, metadata files, or other related assets. Typical use cases include fetching vector data files for analysis, backup, or further processing.
For example, if you have a vector store containing document embeddings and you want to retrieve a particular file representing those embeddings or related metadata, this node allows you to specify the vector store and the exact file to get that data.
Properties
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Vector Store | Select or specify the vector store from which to retrieve the file. You can choose from a list of available vector stores or provide the ID directly. |
| Vector Store Files | Select or specify the particular file within the chosen vector store to retrieve. You can pick from a searchable list of files or enter the file ID manually. |
| Simplify Output | Boolean option to return a simplified version of the response instead of the raw data. When enabled, the output will be easier to consume and parse. |
| Options | Additional optional settings: - Base URL: Override the default API base URL. - Max Retries: Number of retry attempts for the request. - Timeout: Maximum time allowed for the request in milliseconds. - Preserve Original Tools: Whether to keep original assistant tools after execution (default true). |
Output
The node outputs JSON data representing the retrieved vector file's content or metadata. If the "Simplify Output" option is enabled, the output will be a streamlined version focusing on essential information, making it easier to work with downstream.
If the vector file contains binary data (e.g., an embedding file or other non-JSON content), the node may also output binary data accordingly, allowing further processing or saving.
Dependencies
- Requires access to a vector store service or API where vector files are hosted.
- Needs appropriate API authentication credentials (such as an API key) configured in n8n to authorize requests.
- The node uses configurable options like base URL, retries, and timeout to interact with the external vector store API reliably.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues:
- Invalid or missing vector store or file IDs will cause the node to fail to find the requested resource.
- Network issues or incorrect API base URLs can lead to request timeouts or connection errors.
- Insufficient permissions or invalid API credentials will result in authorization errors.
Error Messages:
- "Resource not found" — Check that the vector store and file IDs are correct and exist.
- "Unauthorized" or "Authentication failed" — Verify that the API key or authentication token is properly set up.
- "Request timed out" — Consider increasing the timeout setting or checking network connectivity.
- "Maximum retries exceeded" — Indicates repeated failures; review API availability and credentials.
Links and References
- OpenAI Playground - Assistants — For managing assistants referenced in descriptions.
- Documentation for your vector store service API (not provided here) to understand file retrieval endpoints and authentication requirements.