When converting a v6/v25 workbook “back” for v5 users, Excel may reject macro‑enabled files (.xlsm) with errors like: “This extension cannot be used with the selected file type…”.
Issue Description
This article explains safe paths for macro-enabled backward compatibility and how to overcome it.
Who is this for?
- Users on DataSnipper v6 or v25 collaborating with v5 users
- v5 users opening a workbook edited in v6/25
Symptoms
- Conversion fails when the source workbook is .xlsm
Quick answer
- Use backward conversion only when necessary *(It is not recommended to keep converting the workbook to back versions, it may cause data corruption, make sure to have backup of the original workbook before making any changes.)*
- If you must convert: make a backup first, save as .xlsx (strips macros), convert, then re‑add macros and save as .xlsm.
Steps to convert backward version and enable Macro
- Back up your workbook
- Make a copy to keep the original safe.
- Then, export the macro from the original workbook.
Open xlsm workbook - Export: Alt+Fn+F11 → Project pane → Click ‘Insert’(select Module/UserForm/Class)
→ Once it all appeared in the pane, right‑click Module/UserForm/Class → Export File… (.bas/.frm+.frx/.cls) → Save in local path
- Remove macros before converting
- Save As → Excel Workbook (*.xlsx) → this strips all VBA code.
- Convert the clean .xlsx file
- Do your conversion in version 5
- Re-add macros**
- After convert, Save As → Excel Macro-Enabled (*.xlsm).
- Open VBA Editor (Alt + F11).
- Import your exported `.bas`, `.cls`, or `.frm` files (File → Import File…).
- Recreate any event code (e.g., `Workbook_Open`, worksheet events) if needed.
- Test and confirm**
- Reopen and run macros.
- If blocked, check Trust Center settings or Tools → References for missing libraries.
Known error and fixes
- Error: “This extension cannot be used with the selected file type.”
- Cause: Excel type mismatch when saving a macro file to a non‑macro type during conversion.
- Fix: Cave to .xlsx first (Step 2), then convert. After conversion, re‑add macros and save as .xlsm.
FAQ
- Q: Will macros be preserved automatically?
- A: No. Converting via .xlsx strips VBA. Export/import macros to restore.
- Q: Our macros stopped running after re‑import.
- A: Re‑check macro security, unblock files, and restore missing references in Tools → References.