>>OIC. In that case, could you use ole automation to instantiate Excel, open the file, and save it as version Office '97?
>>
>>>>There's no patch, AFAIK, but you can still export to XL5 and open the file in Office Excel '97. Or is there more to your question?
>
>Can you give me some more details?

Look up OLE Automation or EXCEL 97 (Often spelled ExceLL) in the Search area here on UT, there are a lot of past threads. You can also get started by going to MS Tech Support and searching on "OLE Automation" There are many good articles.

HTH
Barbara