XL: Cannot Open Multiplan Files (214250)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Excel 2000
  • Microsoft Excel 2002
This article was previously published under Q214250
For a Microsoft Excel 97 and 95 version of this article, see 147272.

SYMPTOMS

If you try to open a MultiPlan file in Microsoft Excel, the file fails to open and you receive the following error message:
This file is not in a recognizable format.

CAUSE

This problem occurs because Microsoft Excel does not directly open Multiplan files.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, use either of the following methods:
  • Open the file in MultiPlan and export it into the Symbolic Link (SYLK) file format. Microsoft Excel has a built-in converter for the SYLK file format.

    To export from Multiplan into the SYLK file format, follow these steps:
    1. On the Command menu, click Transfer and then click Options.
    2. On the Transfer Options menu, click Symbolic.
    3. Press ENTER to go back to the Command menu.
    4. On the Command menu, click Transfer and then click Save.
    5. Type the file name and press ENTER.

-or-

  • Microsoft Excel 5.0 includes a Multiplan converter. Open the MultiPlan file in Microsoft Excel version 5.0 and save the file as a Microsoft Excel workbook file. Open the converted Excel workbook file in Microsoft Excel.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:10/7/2003
Keywords:kberrmsg kbinterop kbprb kbsetup KB214250
©2003 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.