XMLA - cannot download .pbix after updating dataset with External Tools (XMLA Read/Write)

[Migasuke]

Hi community,

I am working on a dataset, which is managed via XMLA endpoints. After changes the file can't be downloaded anymore from PBI Service.

I found the same questions from 2020 and basicaly there was no solution back then
https://community.powerbi.com/t5/Service/Cannot-download-pbix-after-updating-dataset-with-External-T...

Is there anyone who has some news or ideas, which can help nowedays?

Thank you!

[ajohns3]

I found a way to extract a .pbix after modifying a semantic model using the XMLA endpoints. It involves going via the PBIP format, and the resulting PBIX is the PBIR report "embedded within the PBIX file", so there are limitations to consider.

After using the method outlined below, I also found this webpage that describes another method to extract the .pbix by going via PBIP, using tabular editor.

Creating PBIX File from XMLA Endpoint. | Tabular Editor Documentation

There are two steps:

1. Extract a PBIP from the semantic model hosted in the service. I used Fabric Studio in VSCode to do this. It's straighforward: sign into the extension, right click on the model you want to export and click "Download as PowerBI Project (PBIP)". This will download the PBIP files and folder structure into the directory you choose.

2. Open the .pbir file in the root of the directory using PBI Desktop. At this point you can choose to continue to work with the .pbip format, but if required you can save the file as a .pbix using File -> Save As and selecting .pbix as the format.

I hope that helps.

[AlexisOlson · Accepted solution]

This is a documented limitation:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/power-bi/create-reports/service-export-to-pbix

• Reports created in the Power BI service that are based on a single dataset that's configured for large models or incremental refresh, or that has been modified by using the XMLA endpoint can only be downloaded in live connected report mode.
• Datasets modified by using the XMLA endpoint can't be downloaded to a .pbix file.

There may be workarounds but I haven't tried these myself.

[Migasuke]

Thank you,

I hope they will get rid of this limitation one day.