Direct Query vs Import

[Anonymous]

Hello,

I have an issue regarding 'direct query' vs 'import'.  I am retrieving data from SQL and creating data tables/visualizations with time parameters, more specifically 'networkdays'.  In order to create 'networkdays' in PowerBi I believe I need to use a calendar table from another data source such as excel.  I would like to make my data/visualizations live so that I do not need to re-create them each time.

1) Is it possible to operate in direct query mode and link another table such as a calendar to create 'networkdays'?

or

2) Is it possible to operate in Import mode and have my data so that I don't need to redownload from SQL and remake measures, columns, charts, graphs etc.  each time I want to run an updated report?

Thanks in advance!

[mattluk]

1.   you can try to create the view the the same DB

eg. DB1 have date table

      DB2 have data tave

      you can crate the view in DB2

     Select * from DB1.dbo.date

2. I also have this problem.

[v-danhe-msft · Accepted solution]

Hi @Anonymous,

For the first issue, based on my research, I am afraid you could not link another table from the another data source, all tables you want to link must come from a single database. You can create a calendar table in the same SQL database and get data form this calendar table via DirectQuery.

Reference: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/power-bi/desktop-use-directquery#limitations-of-directquery

For the second issue, you could import the data from you SQL Server, but when you need the latest data, you need to update it manually in Power BI Desktop.

Regards,

Daniel He