How to load SYLK file

[VincentLEFEVRE]

Hi all, 

Is there any way to load SYLK (.slk extension) file into Qlik Sense ? 

When trying to load it, Qlik Sense does not recognize the format. So it seems there is no answer.. 

The problem is I have to get data from 600 sylk files generated by a software, and I don't want to change the format of each file.

That's why I'm asking you before changing my plans.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Best regards, 

Vincent

[ArnadoSandoval · Accepted solution]

Hi @VincentLEFEVRE 

Based on Wikipedia definition of the SYLK file Symbolic Link (SYLK);

I will load them with a variation of the LOAD command for CSV file, but after reading the Wikipedia page, your requirement is not as simple as read it, you need to parse it by following the SYLK format specification, unfortunately, Microsoft does not share it, so you may follow the Wikipedia's definition and hope for the best.

Question: Why would you try to incorporate such an OLD format? it was introduced in the 80s with their last version released in 1986, about 34 years ago 😮 If I were you, I will stand clear of implementing this file format in a solution. You may be better of by writing an Excel's VBA code performing the conversion for you, from SLK to CSV.

Hope this helps,

Note: Even Microsoft dumped it, why would you use it?

[VincentLEFEVRE]

Hi @ArnadoSandoval ,

Thanks for your message. I have come to the same conclusion as you.

I know this is a too old format.. Unfortunately, this is coming from an old software, which has this "slk" format as its default format. I will try to make them change this default format, but I'm not sure it will be possible.

I will try to write this VBA script as you said. I think it will be easier than trying to load these files directly.

Thanks again,

Vincent 

[ArnadoSandoval]

Hi @VincentLEFEVRE 

You may also try Python sylk-parser 0.5 I also found this StackOverflow thread How do I convert a csv file to xlsb using Python? you may consider that alternative as well.

HTH