Troubleshooting "Invalid Index" Error in Blue Prism's PDF to Excel Converter

When automating processes with Blue Prism, integrating digital assets such as the "PDF to Excel Converter" from the Digital Exchange can significantly streamline workflows. However, users occasionally encounter errors. This article addresses a specific issue: the "Invalid Index" error (Exception from HRESULT: 0x8002000B (DISP_E_BADINDEX)) when using the "Save As" function in the PDF to Excel Converter.

Understanding the Issue

The error arises during the code stage execution when the Blue Prism process attempts to save the converted Excel file. The "Invalid Index" exception typically indicates a problem with the parameters passed to the SaveAs method.

Potential Causes and Solutions

Based on community discussions, here's a breakdown of potential causes and solutions for this error:

1. Incorrect Parameters in the SaveAs Code Stage

• The Problem: The SaveAs function requires specific parameters, including the filename and file format. If these parameters are incorrect or mismatched, the "Invalid Index" error can occur.
• The Solution: Verify that inputs for the SaveAs code stage match the required format. Consider the following:
  • Filename: Ensure the filename includes the full path and desired filename, including the ".xlsx" extension.
  • File Format: Use the correct numerical code for the Excel file format. 51 is typically used for .xlsx files.
  • Double-check for typos or incorrect variable mappings in the Blue Prism process.
• Example: The correct script would be wb.SaveAs(filename, 51)

2. Filename Manipulation Issues

• The Problem: Incorrect filename might lead to a unrecognized file extension
• The Solution: Ensure proper filename extension by adding ".xlsx."

3. File Path Problems

• The Problem: The path is being blocked or doesn't exist, and it won't let the system save to the file
• The Solution: Try moving the PDF file to another location, such as your desktop, or to the C: drive for testing purposes. Update the Blue Prism process with the new file path and re-run the process, if you get the same error the next thing to try would be to move the pdf to another folder location for example on your desktop and then run the process again with the new location for the pdf as the input.

4. Corrupted Asset

• The Problem: There might be an issue with files of shared asset
• The Solution: Re-download the asset for the DX.

Blue Prism Community Resources

If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the error search the community forum.

• Product Forum: For general technical inquiries and advice.
• Digital Exchange Forum: For issues related to specific assets from the Digital Exchange, such as the PDF to Excel Converter.

Conclusion

The "Invalid Index" error in Blue Prism's PDF to Excel Converter can be perplexing, but a systematic approach to checking parameters, file paths, and filename manipulation can often lead to a resolution. Leveraging the Blue Prism community and its wealth of shared knowledge is also invaluable in overcoming such challenges. Remember to validate your settings and seek help when needed to ensure successful automation.

This article provides general information, for specific solutions, Refer to the community here.