The Challenge of Decimal Data in ADF

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 93 views

Introduction

Azure Data Factory (ADF) is a cloud-based data integration service that allows users to create, schedule, and manage data pipelines. One of the key features of ADF is its ability to transform data from various sources, including Excel files, into different formats such as CSV. However, when dealing with decimal data in Excel files, users may encounter issues with the output format in ADF. In this article, we will discuss the challenges of transforming Excel files with decimal data in ADF and provide a step-by-step guide on how to achieve the desired output.

The Challenge of Decimal Data in ADF

When working with decimal data in Excel files, users may encounter issues with the output format in ADF. The issue arises when the decimal data is not properly formatted, leading to incorrect output in the CSV file. For example, if the Excel file contains a numeric column with decimal data, such as 15000000 or 23219284.250000, ADF may not be able to transform the data correctly.

Using Double Data Type in ADF

One common approach to handling decimal data in ADF is to use the double data type. However, as mentioned earlier, users may encounter issues with the output format when using the double data type. The double data type is a 64-bit floating-point number that can represent decimal values, but it may not be able to handle very large or very small decimal values.

Using Decimal Data Type in ADF

Another approach to handling decimal data in ADF is to use the decimal data type. The decimal data type is a 128-bit decimal number that can represent decimal values with a high degree of precision. However, the decimal data type may not be supported in all ADF activities, such as the Copy Data activity.

Using Format String in ADF

One way to handle decimal data in ADF is to use a format string to specify the output format. For example, if the Excel file contains a numeric column with decimal data, users can use a format string such as "N2" to specify the output format as a decimal value with two digits after the decimal point.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transforming Excel Files with Decimal Data in ADF

To transform Excel files with decimal data in ADF, follow these steps:

Step 1: Create a New ADF Pipeline

Log in to the Azure portal and navigate to the ADF section.
Click on the "Pipelines" tab and then click on the "New pipeline" button.
Enter a name for the pipeline and click on the "Create pipeline" button.

Step 2: Create a New ADF Dataset

In the pipeline, click on the "Datasets" tab and then click on the "New dataset" button.
Select the "Excel" data source and enter the file path and credentials.
Click on the "Create dataset" button.

Step 3: Create a New ADF Activity

In the pipeline, click on the "Activities" tab and then click on the "New activity" button.
Select the "Copy Data" activity and enter the source and sink datasets.
Click on the "Create activity" button.

Step 4: Configure the ADF Activity

In the activity, click on the "Settings" tab and then click on the "Format" button.
Select the "Decimal" data type and enter the precision and scale values.
Click on the "OK" button.

Step 5: Run the ADF Pipeline

In the pipeline, click on the "Run" button to execute the pipeline.
Wait for the pipeline to complete and then click on the "View output" button to view the transformed data.

Conclusion

Transforming Excel files with decimal data in ADF can be challenging, but by using the decimal data type and format string, users can achieve the desired output. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, users can create a new ADF pipeline, dataset, and activity to transform Excel files with decimal data. With the right configuration and settings, users can ensure that the decimal data is properly formatted and output in the desired format.

Best Practices

Use the decimal data type to handle decimal data in ADF.
Use a format string to specify the output format.
Test the pipeline with sample data to ensure that the decimal data is properly formatted.
Use the "View output" button to view the transformed data and verify that it is correct.

Troubleshooting

If the decimal data is not properly formatted, check the format string and decimal data type.
If the decimal data is still not properly formatted, check the pipeline configuration and settings.
If the issue persists, contact Azure support for further assistance.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between the double and decimal data types in ADF? A: The double data type is a 64-bit floating-point number that can represent decimal values, while the decimal data type is a 128-bit decimal number that can represent decimal values with a high degree of precision.
Q: How do I specify the output format for decimal data in ADF? A: Use a format string to specify the output format. For example, "N2" specifies the output format as a decimal value with two digits after the decimal point.
Q: How do I troubleshoot issues with decimal data in ADF? A: Check the format string and decimal data type, and test the pipeline with sample data to ensure that the decimal data is properly formatted.