Microsoft KB Archive/20773

Multiplan: Definition and Discussion of SYLK Files PSS ID Number: Q20773 Article last modified on 10-17-1990 PSS database name: D_MPlan

1.x 2.x 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.04 4.00 4.01 4.20

MS-DOS

Summary:

SYLK is an acronym for SYmbolic LinK. A SYLK file is created whenever a file is saved with the Transfer Options set to Symbolic. Because a SYLK file is an ASCII text file, it can be accessed by any word processor that can load a text file. SYLK files have a common structure between various versions of Multiplan and between various operating systems. So, as long as unsupported functions are not included in the file, a SYLK file can be ported to other versions of Multiplan (for example, from IBM to Apple to MacIntosh to TRS 80 Model II. This procedure is not guaranteed to be downward compatible (a version 3.00, 3.01, 3.02, 3.04, 4.00, 4.01, or 4.20 SYLK file will not always load into a 2.x version). In addition, some OEMs have deviated somewhat from the standard SYLK file format.

More Information:

SYLK files define everything about a worksheet, even the external links that the worksheet has to other spreadsheets. The SYLK file can be edited from within a word processor for the purpose of doing procedures such as dissolving multiple links quickly or for eliminating user-defined date formats.

An application note titled “SYLK File Format” gives the basic structure of the SYLK file as it exists in all versions. The application note is available from Microsoft Product Support Services at (206) 454-2030.

Copyright Microsoft Corporation 1990.