Dynamic Input on Multiple Zip Files

Question

Hi,

I am pulling in multiple zip files what are actually alteryx workflows from a directory and parsing them as .csv files. However, when I am using the dynamic input tool, I am getting the error Choose a file to read.

The directory path is set to the folder that contains all of the .csv files.

The dynamic input path is set to the same folder but selecting the very first file. I am reading a list of data sources with the setting Field: FullPath and Action: Change entire file path.

Can someone please help me understand why I am getting the error?

Thank you.

Link86 · Answer

You are right, that was a typo. Alteryx Packaged Files .yxzp (what is downloaded from the gallery).

danilang · Answer

Hi @Link86

.yxdb files are not zipped files or csv files.  These are data files stored in a proprietary format known only to Alteryx.  the only way that I've found to open them is using an Input (or Dynamic Input) tool set to .yxdb format.  In your case, the inner file type in your zip config should be set to .yxdb

Dan

KOBoyle · Answer

@Link86  Upon closer look at your inquiry, I don't think you can accomplish this with the Dynamic Input Tool. I recall that was my first approach too. I ended up having to create a batch macro to process multiple compressed files. I have attached an example of a workflow and batch macro.

In the main workflow, you need a formula to concatenate the full path with '|||' and the file name of the compressed file, whatever the type (it can be a .yxdb).

In the macro, you substitute the formula derived string into the standard Input tool.

If you download the package, saving it to 'C:\Alteryx\Test' will avoid having to update the file references.

Zip File Processing.yxzp