Best Method to Convert Excel files to version 2010

[IMNovice]

I have many files in the xls file format....mainly from Excel 97, 2000 and 2003. What is the best method to convert them to version 2010? Many files have macros in VBA, pivot tables,
cell links to other files, range names, etc.

Please, only responses from experienced members only, such as Excel MVP's.

Thanks.

 

[Rhino373]

I use this function to convert from .xls to .xlsx. This naturally would have to be changed to include macro enabled workbooks. I reads the files from a specific location.

Sub ConvertXLStoXLSX()
StrPath = ThisWorkbook.Path & "\Import AT&T\"
'Get the first filename
strFile = Dir(StrPath, vbNormal)
Do
    'check to see if you have a filename
    If strFile = "" Then
        GoTo ExitHere
    End If
    If Right(strFile, 3) = "xls" Then
        Set objChangeWorkbook = Workbooks.Open(StrPath & strFile)
        WorkbookName = Left(strFile, InStrRev(strFile, ".") - 1)
        objChangeWorkbook.SaveAs StrPath & WorkbookName & ".xlsx", FileFormat:= _
            xlOpenXMLWorkbook, CreateBackup:=False
        objChangeWorkbook.Close
        Kill StrPath & strFile
    End If
    strFile = Dir()
Loop
ExitHere:
End Sub

 

[xenou]

Since Excel 2010 has no difficulty reading and writing xls files, I think it's fine to just do it as needed. You could even just leave the files in xls format - there's no hurry. I've put the "convert" button on my QAT toolbar and if I want to update the format I click the button and its done. One drawback here is that you lose the original file - so if you have doubts it's best to make a backup first. Another reason to take it slow.

ξ

BTW, I wouldn't up front exclude anyone who has a good idea to share - knowledge is valuable wherever it is found:

Please, only responses from experienced members only, such as Excel MVP's.