PowerPivot start up question

[golfer01]

I just started using pivot tables and am interested in powerpivot. I'm using excel 2010 and don't see power pivot. Is it an add on and do I have to pay a fee ? Also I'm having some issues with pivot tables in general. Is there a good reference ? I don't find the Help too helpful. Thanks

 

[NickyvV]

Yes, you need to install the PowerPivot add-in, downloadable at PowerPivot | Microsoft BI.
Then it should be available right away after restarting Excel. Otherwise go to File > Options > Add-ins. On the bottom of the screen near Manage select COM Add-ins and click Go and make sure PowerPivot is selected.

I believe Rob Collie says it all at New Visitor? « PowerPivotPro.

 

[pete234]

If you are on a company network you might need admin rights as well as it writes to a protected folder Add-In.
Make sure you follow the order of installing the Visual Studio toolpak as it can lead to errors.
As far as pivot tables in general, there are a lot of guides in google, some at microsoft, databison, mrexcel, contexture, chandoo just to name a few.
Most Excel primer books have a good chapter on them too.

 

[golfer01]

Thanks Nicky. I'll give it a shot.

 

[golfer01]

Thanks Pete. I'm on a standalone laptop so I don't have to worry about admin rights. I also appreciate the advice on the references for pivot tables and will take a look.