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.