Browser extension
Capture metadata from the active tab and save it to PandaRef without leaving the page you are reading.
Install and sign in
The extension runs in supported Chromium-based browsers. For a manual install, download and extract the package, then load the folder containing manifest.json from the browser’s extensions page.
In practice, install from the store or follow the load instructions supplied with your package. Next, pin PandaRef to the browser toolbar for quick access. Then, open the extension and sign in to your PandaRef account. Finally, choose a language from the language icon; initially it may use your browser language.
Capture, review, and save
When opened, PandaRef reads the active tab to detect metadata declared by the site and may show a reading or assisted-detection status. Review or complete the fields and choose a project before saving.
In practice, open the source page, then open PandaRef. Next, check title, authors, year, source type, DOI/URL, and other available fields. Then, select a style to review the formatted preview. Finally, choose a project and select Save; confirm the saved status.
Limits and privacy
The extension reads only the active tab when you open it to capture data. Pages with incomplete metadata may need manual editing; always verify details at the source. The extension session is stored locally in the browser and can be ended from the extension.
In practice, complete missing fields before saving. Next, if a site cannot be read or has no metadata, enter the details manually. Then, use Refresh current page to read again after navigating to another source. Finally, sign out on shared devices and protect your browser profile.
What to capture and verify
The extension turns the page you are viewing into a reference draft using metadata exposed by that site. It is an assisted capture, not a source validation or a guarantee that the site provides correct and complete data.
In practice, confirm the active tab is the source you intend to save before opening the extension. Next, review authors, date, title, material type, journal/publisher, DOI, and URL; correct missing fields or page text that is not part of the reference. Then, choose a project and style, review the preview, and save only when the record is recognizable. Finally, use Refresh current page after moving to another source; changing tabs does not replace reviewing the metadata already shown.