> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.norrnext.com/norrcompetition/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.norrnext.com/norrcompetition/faq/how-to-install-sample-data.md).

# How to install sample data

NorrCompetition provides a sample data plugin containing 5 pre-configured demo contests across different types (Photo, Video, Simple), complete with demo categories, custom fields, and entries.

***

## 1. Prerequisites & Download

* **Requirements:** Joomla 5+, PHP 8.2+, NorrCompetition 3.0.0+.
* **Empty Component State:** Sample data requires that no existing contests, categories, custom fields, or entries exist in NorrCompetition (including items in the Trash). If existing items are present, delete them and empty the trash before proceeding.
* **Download:** Download `plg_sampledata_nc.zip` from your NorrNext account download area.

***

## 2. Installing the Sample Data Plugin

1. In Joomla Administrator, go to **System > Install > Extensions**.
2. Upload the `plg_sampledata_nc.zip` package file.
3. Ensure the plugin is enabled under **System > Plugins > Sample Data - NorrCompetition**.

***

## 3. Launching Sample Data Installation

1. Navigate to the Joomla **Home Dashboard** (or **System Dashboard**).
2. Locate the **Sample Data** dashboard module.
3. Click on **NorrCompetition Sample Data**.

<figure><img src="https://4110454137-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FemWP543OtNCmlHpJBjKV%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-e3b58bb09a58fd4b5e10e705675a5cdb9f57ad36%2Fnc-install-sample-data2.png?alt=media" alt="NorrCompetition Sample Data installation in dashboard"><figcaption><p>NorrCompetition Sample Data Module</p></figcaption></figure>

4. Joomla will download demo media assets and populate the database automatically.

<figure><img src="https://4110454137-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FemWP543OtNCmlHpJBjKV%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-49010a36c91fe3399cd7022853e2db1081463d79%2Fnc-install-sample-data3.png?alt=media" alt="Sample data successfully installed"><figcaption><p>Successful Sample Data Installation</p></figcaption></figure>

The sample data adds:

* **The First Look** (Photo Contest)
* **Show Me Your Smile!** (Photo Contest)
* **Tune Up!** (Photo Contest)
* **Beautiful Earth** (Video Contest)
* **Love Poetry** (Simple Contest with embeds)
* Standard demo categories, custom fields, and menu items.

***

## 4. Uninstalling the Sample Data Plugin

After sample data installation is complete, you can safely uninstall the plugin to optimize your site storage:

1. Navigate to **System > Manage > Extensions**.
2. Search for `Sample Data - NorrCompetition`.
3. Select the plugin and click **Uninstall**.

***

## 5. Troubleshooting Sample Data Installation

### Upload Size or Timeout Errors

The sample data package and assets require sufficient PHP memory and execution time. Recommended server settings in `php.ini` or `.htaccess`:

```ini
upload_max_filesize = 64M
post_max_size = 64M
memory_limit = 256M
max_execution_time = 300
```

### Re-installing Sample Data

If you modify sample data and wish to start over:

1. Delete all NorrCompetition entries, contests, categories, and custom fields.
2. Empty the **Trash** in each list view.
3. Remove generated sample menu items in **Menus**.
4. Re-run the sample data installer from the dashboard.