@ function not recognised

Question

I have had a recent problem come up with the explicit array operator '@'.

For many years I have used the implicit operator in my spreadsheets to pick a value from the corresponding column of a named row (by just referring to the roew name) - and that method is still working without any problems.  A couple of years ago the (explicit) "implicit intersection operator", '@' was introduced to handle a problem with dynamic arrays. Initally we were getting it automatically inserted into our sheets, now that has stopped, but implicit selection still works fine.

I had started to insert the @ operator to future proof my spreadsheets, but now when I open a spreadsheet template that has this operator, I get the _xlfn.SINGLE() fintion replacing it, indicating it is an unknown funtion.

I should only see this if an older version of Excel was opening the spreadsheet, and it did not recognise the function.  Trouble is, my version is the current 365 version - and to make sure I removed and reinstalled Office 365 entirely.

The spreadsheet template opens correctly on other computers, but not on my main work computer.

I suspect a dynamic library somewhere is involved and has become corrupt, but I do not know which one it may be.

Has anyone seen this happen?

Answer 1

Hi @Jim Alexander, 

Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.  

I've reviewed the issue you're experiencing with the explicit array operator @. Since you mentioned the spreadsheet template works correctly on other computers, I'd appreciate it if you could kindly help me perform the following steps to narrow down the cause. 

File Copy: First, please try copying the content of your problematic file into a completely new Excel file. Let me know if you encounter the same issue with the new file. 

Account Test: Next, could you try opening the file on a different device while logged in with your account? 

• If the issue disappears: The problem is likely with your computer or the Excel app itself. 
• If the issue persists: The cause may be related to your user account. 

Repair Office: If you haven't already, please try repairing your Office application by following these instructions: Repair an Office application - Microsoft Support 

Reinstallation: If repairing doesn't work, please kindly help me try uninstalling and then reinstalling Office again. 

If these two steps don't resolve the issue, we can confidently rule out the Excel application as the primary cause. 

At this point, we're left with two potential culprits: your device or your user account. To pinpoint the exact cause, can you tell me if your company's policy allows you to create a new Windows user profile? 

Creating a new profile provides a fresh Windows environment, which is a great way to determine if the issue is tied to your old profile. 

• If you create a new user profile and the error doesn't reappear: This strongly suggests the problem lies with your old user profile. 
  Reference: Manage User Accounts in Windows - Microsoft Support 
• If company policy prevents this: Please reach out to your company's IT Admin to have them perform this step for you. 

Important Note: Please remember to back up all your data beforehand. If we find that the new user profile works and you decide to use it, you will need to transfer your data over. 

Please try the steps in order and let me know the results. Before you proceed with the step of creating a new Windows profile, please also let me know if you've been able to discuss this with your IT Admin. This will help me provide you with the most suitable next steps. 

Thank you for your help! Looking forward to your response! 

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