Set up import file

This subject relates to the layout of files to be imported. An import file must always be an ASCII file; the following types can be used:

• ASCII file with fixed lengths (usually a *.prn file)
• ASCII file with separators (usually a *.csv file)
• ASCII file with tabs as separators (usually a *.txt file)

The first line of the import file may contain field names, but this is not required. You can put text between double quotes, for example "this text is between double quotes". You can decide for yourself if you want to use a decimal point or a comma as a decimal separator.

Profit includes a useful tool for setting up an import file in Microsoft Excel.

ASCII file with fixed lengths

Each field in the file has a fixed length, for example:

You must indicate in the import wizard in which positions you want to add separations.

ASCII file with separators

Fields are separated by a fixed separator, such as a semicolon, for example:

You can save an Excel document as a *.csv file. Microsoft Excel uses the list separator set in the regional settings of Windows.

ASCII file with TAB separator

Fields are separated by tabs, such as a semicolon, for example:

In the above example, you see a *.TXT file using tabs as separators. You can, for example, save an Excel document as a *.TXT file.