Announcements
I m using Power Automate Desktop and was to run SQL query on Excel files.
I followed the steps in https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/power-automate/desktop-flows/how-to/sql-queries-excel
However I m getting an error "Can't connect to data source External table is not in the expected format." during Open SQL connection Action.
my excel file is .xlsx and I installed - Microsoft Access Database Engine 2010 Redistributable.
Please help
Hi @unraveller
This error generally occurs when the Excel version and the parameters in the connection string like the below highlighted are in a mismatch
Microsoft.Ace.OLEDB.12.0 and Extended Properties=Excel 12.0
Probably you are using old .xls version and the provider is for the new?
Can you confirm all the parameters and the version.
Hello.Try these valuesProvider=Microsoft.ACE.OLEDB.12.0;Data Source=xlsx_file;Extended Properties="Excel 8.0;HDR=YES";
Under review
Thank you for your reply! To ensure a great experience for everyone, your content is awaiting approval by our Community Managers. Please check back later.
Congratulations to our community stars!
Expanding mentorship, skilling, and AI innovation
These are the community rock stars!
Stay up to date on forum activity by subscribing.
11manish 227 Super User 2026 Season 2
David_MA 213 Super User 2026 Season 2
Mohsin Ali 151
