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Alteryx Designer Desktop Discussions

Find answers, ask questions, and share expertise about Alteryx Designer Desktop and Intelligence Suite.

Single Output from multiple outputs in multiple worksheets tabs

Eli
5 - Atom

Hi,

I have 2 input files that I have used the UNION tool to bring together the similarities and discrepancies. The union tool gave me 3 different Output files which I want to merge into 1 Output file with 3 tabs. I have used the block until done but I keep having the error message that the file is being used or unable to open. Can you help please?

4 REPLIES 4
griffinwelsh
12 - Quasar

Since you have all the data in one union tool already I recommend using a column to set your output path and sheet in the format filename.xlsx|||sheetname. Then on the output tool use the overwrite sheet or range and take filename from your filepath with change entire file path.

2015.png

Eli
5 - Atom

thank you for your reply. It doesnt work, I keep getting the error message 'Unable to open file for....'

LindonB
11 - Bolide

Yeah, block until done has some issues with writing to Excel files when your data is a bit smaller. This, I think, is because there's still a delay in closing and saving the file on the back end. You could always use the "Take File/Table Name from Field" option in the output tool and just have it write all three in the same tool. Alternatively, try disabling the AMP Engine that allows for parallel processing. Click the blank area in the canvas. Under the Workflow Configuration Panel, select the Runtime tab; uncheck “Use AMP Engine”.

LindonB
11 - Bolide

If you're still getting that message using @griffinwelsh's suggestion, it probably mean that the file is being used elsewhere. Make sure it's closed and isn't being used by another user or program (such as Tableau).

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