Datasets created from an external data source can be reloaded with fresh data from the source. When importing data to a dataset, the original connection information to the data source is stored in the property grid below the data (a). 

Whenever the data at the origin changes, it can be re-imported by clicking Update data set from its source (b) on the toolbar.

Connecting a dataset to a different data source

At existing dataset created from one data source can be re-connected to a different data source with the same data structure. A dataset created manually can be then connected to a data source with the same data structure and subsequently updated. To do so, modify data set property as follows :

Data Source Type

First, choose one of the following the Data Source Type (c):

  • Excel file
  • Text file
  • SQL Server
Excel file

The Excel file can be in one of the following formats:

  • Excel Workbook (.xlsx)
  • Excel Binary Workbook (.xlsb)
  • Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (.xlsm)
  • Excel 97-2003 Workbook (.xls)

The origin information includes the Excel connection string and the Datasheet name where to query the data from. For more on Excel connection string options, check this source.

Text file

The text file should be in a comma-separated (.csv) format but can have a custom delimiter. The origin information includes the file path, the delimiter character, and also an indication if the first line in the text file contains column headings.


SQL Server

The SQL Server has a connection string and an SQL Select query to get the data. For more on SQL Server, connection strings click here


  • No labels