"there is no available gateway" confusion

[DigDeeply]

Hello

I have a report I authored in Desktop that references data in Azure SQL Server (mostly Direct Query, smaller tables are Local Import), and have successfully distributed the report to colleagues via a Workspace.

I wish to add a reference table to the report that is in an xlsx flat file. It's just a list of dates and numbers. It can be packaged with the report and won't need to be refreshed.

In Desktop I imported the file in 'Local Import' mode, it works fine in the report.

I publish the report to Service (app.powerbi.com) and upon checking I see 'There is no available gateway' error. I was expecting the data to be  embedded in the report so I don't understand the need for this. I see no need for a gateway and don't require the Service to attempt to reload local data. A one time 'embed' is sufficient.

As a second attempt I used Service to create a new Dataset and uploaded and loaded the xlsx to that. But in this case when I review the list of available Datasets in Desktop, the newly created Dataset is not available, despite waiting for some time.

I'd appreciate pointers on what I am doing wrong or a link to the relevant documentation please. Searches haven't helped.

Many thanks.

Update: worth mentioning that in Service, the preview of the table loaded from the xlsx looks valid. I've now confirmed this with a download from Service.

[Wikkleyn81]

Hi @DigDeeply Unselect Include in Report Refresh. This will remove the requirement of a gateway. But if you need to make a change, you will have to reload and publish the dataset. Rather save the document to a cloud source e.g. SharePoint/OneDrive. That will enable you to load from the xlsx file and if you make changes it will automatically be included. 

[GilbertQ]

Hi @DigDeeply 

For it it to be refreshed you need to store the file on a file system or ideally SharePoint online and then connect to the Excel file from Excel online. Once that is done you will then get the option to refresh

[DigDeeply]

Thank you Gilbert yes I understand that. Is it not possible simply to embed the small data file into the pbix for it is 'fixed' an no refresh is needed?