Search code examples
excelexcel-addinsexcel-dnaxll

Excel DNA XLL Config - Setting Comments, Description and Company

I see that in the ExcelDna.dna (config) file I can set the "Name" of an XLL, which translates to the TITLE on the Excel/Options/Addins screen. But I was wondering if there was an easy way to set Comments (description) or Company name. Much thanks.

Solution

  • There is certainly not an 'easy' way. I recall seeing some (undocumented) registry keys that a COM add-in would write, and these seemed to work for an .xll add-in too.

    For example, on my machine I see the Analysis ToolPak displays a description in the add-ins dialog - "Provides data analysis tools...". Searching for this string in the registry, I find a bunch of entries here:

    Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Office\ClickToRun\REGISTRY\MACHINE\Software\Classes\Installer\Components\B65A737451FC40A46A0FA969443BD207

    but the relevant value is somewhat obscure:

    zn=BVK(8A$!!!!!MKKSkExcelAddinATPFilesIntl_1033<Analysis ToolPak\Provides data analysis tools for statistical and engineering analysis

    If you add an extra value under the same key it does get displayed in the add-ins dialog, but I couldn't get it hooked up with the actual add-in entry . . .