Data Cache

Question

Hi, I am new to PowerPivot and have several basic questions.

1) Once I load the data into PowerPivot, is that data saved with the workbook? 

2) I am assuming that PowerPivot has a cache similar to a PivotTable cahce that is part of the spreadsheet.  But, since PowerPivot is an add-in on to Excel, is it possible to save the cache data as a separate file (like a cube file)?

I am asking this question because if it is possible, then Excel is separating the data layer from the presentation layer.  Why that is good for my application is because then I can create the presentation layer once and attach it to multiple data layers that all have the same interface.

Does that clear up my second question?

Thanks,

Tom

Answer 1

Yes,   the data is saved with the workbook.  Just as a test, you can rename your .xlsx extension to .zip and then navigate the files, you will see the data file is saved along the Excel spreadsheet itself

Regarding your second question, PowerPivot for SharePoint can be source to other PowerPivot applications, or to SQL Server Reporting Services.   So your PowerPivot data can service different presentation layers

For PowerPivot for Excel, i dont think you can create a .cub file.  I tried doing so and I got the following message

"a cube file cannot be created from another cube file. The source "$Embedded$" is a cube file"

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Javier Guillen
http://www.msbicentral.com/Blogs/JavierGuillen.aspx