not processed string in sst[20]

• Title

  Import Excel XLS file gives "invalid pointer error" or "not processed string in SST [20]"

• Description

  Error received when importing an Excel file using the Data Importer Wizard by selecting Database | Import | Table Data:
  
  "invalid pointer error"
  or
  "not processed string in SST [20]".

• Cause

  Excel sheet generated by 3rd party program is not compatible with Toad's Import Wizard.

• Resolution

  RESOLUTION 1:
  
  1) Open the XLS file in Excel.
  
  2) Make sure to unfreeze the panes by going to "Windows | Unfreeze pane" in the Excel menu.
  
  3) Check for hidden rows and drag out any rows that are hidden in the spreadsheet.
  
  RESOLUTION 2:
  
  1. Open Microsoft Excel and create A new blank XLS file.
  
  2. Copy the entire contents of the original XLS and paste into new XLS file.
  
  3. Import the new XLS file using Toad's Data Importer.