Definition and Usage
Launch Excel allows you to open an existing Excel file or create a new one if it doesn't exist. This command provides options to work with different Excel applications and control the visibility of the Excel window during automation processes.
Parameter Values
Input parameters
Parameter | Description | Possible Values | Required | Options / Notes |
Startup option | Select to open an existing file or create a new one | Open an existing Excel worksheet, Create a new Excel worksheet | Yes | Determines whether to open an existing file or create a new one |
File path | Enter or select the path to the Excel file | Any valid file path | Yes | For existing files, the path must be valid; for new files, the directory must exist |
Excel app | Select the application to open the Excel file | Default, Office, WPS | Yes | Choose the Excel application to use for the operation |
Show Excel window | Check to keep the Excel window visible during automation | True/False | No | When unchecked, Excel will run in the background |
Advanced settings
Parameter | Description | Possible Values | Required | Options / Notes |
Password to open file | Password required to open a protected Excel file | Any string | No | Only needed if the Excel file is protected with a password to open |
Password to edit file | Password required to edit a protected Excel file | Any string | No | Only needed if the Excel file is protected with a password to edit |
Error handling
Parameter Name | Description |
Throw error & stop | When an error occurs, the action will trigger an error and stop the execution of the entire app. |
Retry command | If an error occurs, the action will retry the command in an attempt to resolve the issue and continue the process. |
Ignore error & continue | When an error occurs, the action will be ignored, and the workflow will continue without interruption. |
Variables produced
This action produces a variable that stores the Excel instance for use in subsequent Excel operations. The variable can be referenced in later commands that interact with the same Excel workbook.
Using Variables in Conditions
When configuring the Launch Excel command, parameters marked with {x} icon can accept variables as input. For example, you can use a variable for the file path if the Excel file location is determined dynamically during automation. Variables can be particularly useful when:
The file path needs to be determined at runtime
Passwords are stored in secure variables rather than hardcoded
The Excel application choice needs to be dynamic based on system conditions
Notes
If opening an existing file, ensure the file exists at the specified path before executing this command
When creating a new file, make sure the target directory exists and is writable
The Excel instance variable produced by this command is essential for subsequent Excel operations
If using the "Show Excel window" option, be aware that it may affect performance but is useful for debugging
Different Excel applications (Office, WPS) may have slight variations in functionality and appearance