Error with csv import when Row ID starts with an "=" symbol

[ginda]

Hi everyone,

I've been using the csv import feature without any major issues except this one.  I'm using AppSheet database and its autogenerated Row IDs, and some of the generated IDs start with an = symbol.  My csv import process as of right now is to generate blank rows directly in the database editor and then go into the connected app and do a csv export on the rows, then add the information for the other columns I intend to import and save as a csv with the same name, overwriting the original export file.  The problem is that when I open the export in Excel, it views the Row IDs starting with = symbols as broken formulas.  Even if I convert the column to text and/or tell it to ignore formula errors, Excel will still store the Row IDs starting with = symbols in an error state when I save as a csv.  When I try to import any row containing a Row ID starting with an = symbol, the csv import errors out.  I've already tested it and determined that this is the root cause by importing other rows with Row IDs not starting with = no problem.

Does anyone know how to avoid this in Excel, or even Google Sheets?  I would prefer to change some setting in these programs, rather than have to be on the lookout for Row IDs that start with = to delete them whenever I generate new rows in AppSheet.  Thanks to anyone who can point me in the right direction!

[ginda]

Nevermind, it seems to be something Excel is doing; none of the Row IDs start with an = symbol in the database when I check in the editor, but they appear when I open the export in Excel.  Why is it doing this?

[ginda]

Ok, further narrowed it down; it only happens in Excel, not Google Sheets, and Excel only adds = symbols to Row IDs starting with -.  Still not sure why.

[scott192]

I don't suppose this post would shed some light on your problem?

https://www.googlecloudcommunity.com/gc/AppSheet-Q-A/CSV-UTF-8-format/td-p/352569