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Unable to open multiple workbooks in separate instances of Excel


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Symptoms

When you try to double-click on an Excel file from the desktop, you expect the file to open in it's own instance.�


Repro:
1. Open a Windows Explorer window and navigate to a folder that contains Excel documents.
2. Double-click an Excel document to open it. Double click on a second Excel document to open it as well.�


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Cause

This is by design. By default, Excel will always open files in the same instance of Excel.�
Additionally, by default, if two instances are open it will always open in the original instance.�

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Resolution

Using the Windows Start button, open two instances of Excel. Choose the instance in which you want the file to open and use File > Open to browse to and open the file.


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More information

If you are trying to display both files across monitors, you can use one instance of Excel and utilize the feature for��Arrange All� from the View ribbon. Then�stretch the entire application over multiple monitors.

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Note This is a "FAST PUBLISH" article created directly from within the Microsoft support organization. The information contained herein is provided as-is in response to emerging issues. As a result of the speed in making it available, the materials may include typographical errors and may be revised at any time without notice. See Terms of Use for other considerations.

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Keywords: KB2569200

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Article Info
Article ID : 2569200
Revision : 3
Created on : 9/27/2013
Published on : 9/27/2013
Exists online : False
Views : 286