Excel - DBCS Function
DBCS Function
The Excel DBCS function transforms the single-byte characters into double-byte characters in the specific text string, depending on the preferred language settings. It is just the opposite of the ACS function. If the inputted text string contains all double-byte characters, the DBCS function will return the exact text string.
Additionally, Asian language Excel experts have the tremendous advantage of the DBCS function, which improves readability, avoids the loss of integrity of the dataset, and permits the storage of large datasets in double-byte characters.
Compatibility
The DBCS function is compatible with the following versions of Microsoft Excel −
- Excel for Microsoft 365
- Excel for Microsoft 365 for Mac
- Excel for the web
- Excel 2024
- Excel 2024 for Mac
- Excel 2021
- Excel 2021 for Mac
- Excel 2019
- Excel 2016
Syntax
The syntax of the DBCS function is as follows −
=DBCS(text)
Arguments
You can use the following arguments with the DBCS function −
| Argument | Description | Required / Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Text | It specifies the text string/cell reference to transform into double-byte characters. | Required |
Points to Remember
- It works efficiently in Excel, which supports double-byte character set-aided languages like Japanese, Korean, and Chinese.
- If the preferred language is not an Asian language, the DBCS function will give you the exact text string.
- The DBCS function is not exclusive to the older version of Microsoft Excel.
How to use DBCS Function in Excel?
Below are the multiple steps to use the DBCS function −
Step 1 − Double-click on the designated cell.
Step 2 − Write the = sign, then DBCS(A1), and enclose the bracket. Here, the A1 is the cell reference that points to the string. You can also provide the direct text value enclosed in the double quotes.
Step 3 − Press the Enter button to obtain the result.
Example of DBCS Function
Practice the following example to learn the use of the DBCS function in Excel.
Using a Mixed Set of Languages
Step 1 − Assume the sample dataset consists of two columns named Text string and "DBCS formula".
Step 2 − You may write the formula =DBCS(B2) and hit Enter.
Therefore, the DBCS function will return the exact string as the given input value, as it is not a DBCS-assisted language.
Step 3 − Similarly, you may enter the formula =DBCS(B3) in the C3 cell and press the Enter tab.
Therefore, the DBCS function will retrieve the result of Timelines, .
Download Practice Sheet
You can download and use the sample data sheet to practice the DBCS function.