Convert XLS to XLC

Understanding xls and xlc file formats

XLS is the default spreadsheet file format used by Microsoft Excel prior to Excel 2007. It stores data in a tabular form, supporting formulas, charts, and formatting. XLC, on the other hand, is an older Microsoft Excel file format specifically used for storing chart data. Unlike XLS, which contains entire spreadsheets, XLC files are dedicated to chart objects and their associated data.

Why convert xls to xlc?

Converting an XLS file to XLC is useful when you need to extract chart data from a spreadsheet and save it as a standalone chart file. This can be helpful for sharing, archiving, or importing charts into other documents or applications that support the XLC format.

How to convert xls to xlc

Direct conversion from XLS to XLC is not commonly supported by modern software, as the XLC format is largely obsolete. However, you can achieve this conversion using older versions of Microsoft Excel (Excel 97-2003) that support the XLC format. Here’s how:

1. Open your XLS file in Microsoft Excel (preferably Excel 2003 or earlier).
2. Select the chart you want to export.
3. Go to File → Save As.
4. In the Save as type dropdown, select Excel Chart (*.xlc).
5. Choose your destination and click Save.

If you do not have access to an older version of Excel, consider using a virtual machine or compatibility mode to run Excel 2003 or earlier.

Best software for xls to xlc conversion

The most reliable software for this conversion is Microsoft Excel 2003 or earlier. Modern versions of Excel (Excel 2007 and later) have dropped support for the XLC format, so using an older version is essential. There are no widely recognized online converters or third-party tools that support direct XLS to XLC conversion due to the obsolescence of the XLC format.

Summary

To convert XLS to XLC, use Microsoft Excel 2003 or earlier, as newer versions do not support the XLC format. This process is mainly useful for extracting and saving chart data from spreadsheets as standalone chart files.