Overview

This guide will cover various methods for connecting the platform with Excel files, including using ODBC (Open Database Connectivity), the ODBC Microsoft Excel Driver, configuring ODBC with a Data Source Name (DSN), and utilizing OleDB. Each technique offers unique advantages and capabilities, ensuring that you can find the most suitable approach for your specific needs.

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Using ODBC

This method offers a standardized and widely supported method for connecting various applications to databases, ensuring compatibility across diverse data sources. See the sections below to learn how to connect the platform with an Excel file in different Microsoft Excel versions.

Microsoft Office 365

To connect to a datasheet in Office 365, follow the steps below:

  1. Select the the cells to use as data.
  2. Access Formulas → Define Name.
  3. Choose Define Name
  4. Name the selection (for example ItemsTable) and the Excel file is ready to be used. 

Microsoft Office 2007

To connect to a datasheet in Office 2007, follow the steps below:

  1. Select the the cells to use as data.
  2. Right click the selection and choose Name a Range.
  3. Name the selection (for example ItemsTable) and the Excel file is ready to be used. 


Microsoft Office 2003

To connect to a datasheet in Office 2003, follow the steps below:

  1. Select the the cells to use as data.
  2. Access Insert → Name.
  3. Choose Define.
  4. Name the selection (for example ItemsTable) and the Excel file is ready to be used. 


Using ODBC Microsoft Excel Driver

The ODBC Microsoft Excel Driver provides a dedicated driver for Excel, ensuring optimal performance and seamless integration with the Excel file format. To connect using this method, follow the steps below.

  1. Access Datasets → DBs.
  2. Click the plus icon.
  3. Fill in the Name field
  4. In the Provider field, select Odbc Data Provider.
  5. Choose Microsof Excel Database in the Database field. 
  6. Click OK

  7. In the data grid click the Connection String column of the newly created row.
  8. Enter the path and filename in the Dbq field.

Use the Test button to ensure the connection is correctly configured.

Using ODBC With A DSN

Using ODBC with a DSN allows for centralized management and easier maintenance of data source connections, simplifying the configuration process. To connect using this method, follow the steps below.

  1. Access your computer's Control Panel and search for ODBC Data Source Administrator.
  2. In the "ODBC Data Source Administrator" window, click Add.
  3. Select Microsoft Excel Driver (*.xls).
  4. Click Select Workbook and choose the Excel file that was previously created.
  5. Name the Data Source, For example excelDatasource (For Write access, uncheck the Read Only checkbox).
    ODBC Data Source Administrator options
  6. Now back in the platform, access Datasets → DBs.
  7. When creating a new DB choose ODBC Data Provider as ProviderODBC using DSN.
  8. Click Ok

  9. In the data grid click the Connection String column of the newly created row.
  10. Enter the DSN (Data Source Name) in the DSN field


Using OleDB

OleDB enables higher abstraction and flexibility when connecting to data sources, supporting a more comprehensive range of data access technologies and file formats. To connect using this method, follow the steps below.

  1. When creating a new DB choose ODBC Data Provider as Provider.
  2. Choose the Microsoft Excel Database.
  3. Click OK.
  4. In the data grid click the Connection String column of the newly created row.
  5. Enter the path and the name of the Excel (.xls) file in the Data Source field. 

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