KeyError: 'dims' when running convert-pt-to-ggml.py on safetensors/pytorch models

[officiallyutso]

Overview

Running the official convert-pt-to-ggml.py (or convert-h5-to-ggml.py) script fails when inputting safetensors or .bin model files without a "dims" field in the checkpoint metadata. This has occurred across multiple model types (e.g., distil-whisper variants, custom Hugging Face checkpoints) and is still open with no resolution as of now 1 , 2.

Environment

• Repository version: latest as of July 11, 2025
• Scripts: convert-pt-to-ggml.py, possibly convert-h5-to-ggml.py
• Input formats: Safetensors (*.safetensors), .pt or .bin format lacking "dims" in metadata
• Platform: Linux/macOS/Windows (script-based usage)

Observed Behavior

Running conversion typically results in:

KeyError: 'dims'

for example at:

hparams = checkpoint["dims"]

Why It Matters

• The error blocks users from importing many fine-tuned or community Whisper variants that come in safetensors format.
• Without clear guidance or script support, users must manually patch metadata or rebuild a valid checkpoint—leading to errors and inconsistency.
• Clarifying compatibility will improve usability and widen practical model support.

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