Input data tool reading two different types in the same column

[jpscoralick]

Hello everyone!

Using the date input tool as the first step in my workflow, I have a column containing two possible data formats, for example: 

- 39846545 (only numbers)
- TRS364788 (three char followed by numbers)

Since the raw numbers appear first, data input tool sets the column type as Double.
Is there a way to always force the tool to read the column as String?

Thanks in advance!

[Kakuffo]

Hi @jpscoralick 

A select tool will allow you force the String data type.

What data source are you using to read in the data?

[jpscoralick]

Hi, @Kakuffo!

My input in a Excel .xlsx file. I tried using the Select Tool but it didn't work, because when the content is a mix of String and Numbers, as TRS349798, I'm getting Null in these lines.

Btw, if I change the data type of first cell of the column (e.g. 3879115)  in Excel to "Text", Alteryx is able to read all the column as String.

[SPetrie · Accepted solution]

Does the excel file include headers in the first row? Try importing with "First row contains data" option set. It will see the header first and make it string type, then a dynamic rename can use the first row to assign the correct headers.

[jpscoralick]

Hi, @SPetrie!

Your solution worked for me. 

Thanks a lot!

Regards