Getting a range from a closed workbook into an array

Question

How do I get a range of data from a closed workbook into an array in VBA? Preferably without opening the workbook.

Thanks

Answer 1

If you're only interested in the data values in the closed workbook, you can use an empty range of your open workbook as a scratch area and then fill that range with an array formula:

ScratchWorksheet.Range("B1", "B3").FormulaArray = "='PathToClosedBook\[ClosedBook.xlsx]Sheet1'!$B$1:$B$3"

After you're finished you can delete the FormulaArray so you don't leave external links in the open workbook.