XL97: Format Cells Sample May Display Number Signs (163231)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Excel 97 for Windows
This article was previously published under Q163231

SYMPTOMS

The sample number that appears in the Format Cells dialog box may display 20 number signs (#) instead of an example of the selected number format.

CAUSE

This problem occurs when the following conditions are true:

  • The selected cell contains more than 255 characters. -and-

  • The selected category in the Format Cells dialog box is General, Accounting, or Text.

STATUS

This behavior is by design of Microsoft Excel 97 for Windows.

MORE INFORMATION

Several of the number formats also display number signs when the selected cell contains more than 255 characters. For example, number signs may appear when you use General, Accounting, or Text formats. When you reduce the total number of characters to less than 255 (after formatting), Microsoft Excel correctly displays the numbers.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:10/22/2000
Keywords:kbprb KB163231
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