Convert Column from Text to Number in Direct Query

[danb]

Hi Experts! 

I am running into an issue around trying to convert a column that is connected via direct query from a database from "Text" to "Number" type. I know that the proper way to do this is to make the adjustment in the database itself however I was wondering if there was an alternate way to do this in the query editor without having to switch everything to an Import? 

Thanks

Dan 

[zoloturu · Accepted solution]

Hi @danb,

What if while connecting to a database using DirectQuery you will use NativeQuery, where you can do whatever you want?

See example with CAST(CONVERT) below:

DQ cast

Regards,
Ruslan
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[GorkemT]

Hello there,

I have the same exact problem with the dataverse tables not with SQL. So is there a solution for dataverse too? I would like to change the data type from text to whole number or decimal, does not matter at all. the thing is i do not want to loose the direct query from db. 

thank you

[v-piga-msft]

Hi @danb,

By my tests, the solution from zoloturu could solve your problem.

If you have solved your problem, please always accept the replies making sense as solution to your question so that people who may have the same question can get the solution directly.

Best  Regards,

Cherry

[zoloturu · Accepted solution]

Hi @danb,

What if while connecting to a database using DirectQuery you will use NativeQuery, where you can do whatever you want?

See example with CAST(CONVERT) below:

DQ cast

Regards,
Ruslan
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[danb]

@zoloturu

Thank you for your reply. So with the Cast/Convert, does that make changes to the actual database or just modify the the data as it is queried into Power BI?

Dan 

[zoloturu · Accepted solution]

@danb,

it acts as a SQL batch (syntax is unlimited). So if you enter a query as I mentioned then it will be send to the database (calculations done on db side) and a result will be returned to Power BI. Use just SELECT statement and you will be safe. 

Regards,
Ruslan
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[NOVICE02]

Hello there,

I am having the same issue but your solution didn't work....

CAST(KPR_ptpi_amount as int) as (KPRAmount),

The error i get is:

DataSource.Error: Microsoft SQL: Incorrect syntax near '('.
Details:
    DataSourceKind=SQL
    DataSourcePath=rsobdcgenf;credopsreports
    Message=Incorrect syntax near '('.
    Number=102
    Class=15

What could i be doing wrong ?

[pmay]

There should be no parantheses (brackets) around your "(KPRAmount)" I think...

3 years late, but I'm here to save you!

[danb]

Perfect. Thank you!