5 Ways To Convert Excel Epoch To Datetime

If you're an avid user of Microsoft Excel, you're likely no stranger to the complexities of working with dates and timestamps. One such complexity is dealing with epoch time, a system that represents time as the number of seconds that have elapsed since January 1, 1970, at 00:00:00 UTC. While epoch time is useful for computing and programming, it's not very human-friendly. Fortunately, converting Excel epoch to datetime is a manageable task, and this article will guide you through five different methods to achieve this conversion.

Understanding Epoch Time

Before diving into the conversion methods, it's essential to understand the basics of epoch time. Epoch time is a widely used timestamp representation in computing, often utilized in programming languages like Unix, Linux, and JavaScript. This system measures time in seconds since the Unix epoch, which started on January 1, 1970, at 00:00:00 UTC. This method of time representation is efficient for calculations but not intuitive for human interpretation.

Method 1: Using the DATE Function

One straightforward method to convert epoch time to datetime in Excel is by using the DATE function. This function creates a date from individual year, month, and day components. However, since epoch time is in seconds, you'll first need to convert it into a format that Excel can understand.

Given that epoch time starts from January 1, 1970, you can use the following formula to convert epoch time (assuming it's in cell A1) to a datetime format:

=((A1/86400)+25569)

Here, A1 is the cell containing the epoch time, 86400 is the number of seconds in a day, and 25569 is the serial number for January 1, 1970. After applying this formula, you can format the cell to display the date and time as desired.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Enter the epoch time in a cell (e.g., A1).
2. In another cell, apply the formula: =((A1/86400)+25569).
3. Format the resulting cell to display the date and time as desired.

Method 2: Using Power Query

Power Query is a powerful tool in Excel that allows you to manipulate and transform data. You can use it to convert epoch time to datetime by creating a custom column with a specific formula.

1. Load your data into Power Query.
2. Click on "Add Column" and then select "Custom Column."
3. In the formula box, enter the following formula: = #datetime(1970, 1, 1, 0, 0, 0) + #duration([Epoch Time], #second).
4. Replace [Epoch Time] with the column name containing your epoch times.
5. Click "OK" to apply the formula.

This method converts the epoch time into a datetime format by adding the epoch time in seconds to the base date of January 1, 1970.

Method 3: Using VBA

For those comfortable with VBA (Visual Basic for Applications), you can create a custom function to convert epoch time to datetime.

1. Press Alt + F11 to open the VBA editor.
2. In the editor, click "Insert" > "Module" to insert a new module.
3. Paste the following code into the module:

Function EpochToDateTime(epoch As Long) As Date
    EpochToDateTime = DateAdd("s", epoch, "1/1/1970")
End Function

4. Save the module.
5. You can now use the EpochToDateTime function in your Excel sheet.

For example, if you have an epoch time in cell A1, you can use the formula =EpochToDateTime(A1) to convert it to datetime.

Method 4: Using an Add-in

There are various add-ins available for Excel that can simplify the process of converting epoch time to datetime. One popular option is the "Epoch Converter" add-in, which you can download and install from the Microsoft Office Store.

After installing the add-in, you can use its functions to convert epoch time. The exact steps may vary depending on the add-in you choose, so refer to the add-in's documentation for specific instructions.

Method 5: Using an Online Converter

If you only need to convert epoch time occasionally and prefer not to use Excel formulas or VBA, you can use online epoch time converters. These tools are usually free and offer a simple way to convert epoch time to datetime.

1. Search for "epoch time converter" in your favorite search engine.
2. Choose a reliable online converter.
3. Enter the epoch time you want to convert.
4. Click on the "Convert" button to get the datetime equivalent.

While convenient, keep in mind that online converters might not be suitable for large datasets or regular conversions due to their limitations and potential data security concerns.

Gallery of Epoch Time Conversion

Epoch Time Conversion Images

As you've seen, converting Excel epoch to datetime can be accomplished through various methods, each with its own advantages and limitations. Whether you prefer using Excel formulas, Power Query, VBA, an add-in, or an online converter, there's a solution tailored to your specific needs and comfort level with Excel. By mastering these methods, you'll be able to work more efficiently with epoch time in your spreadsheet applications.

If you have any questions or would like to share your favorite method for converting epoch time, please feel free to comment below. Don't forget to share this article with anyone who might find it useful!