How to Use the HEX2OCT Function in Excel

Today, we will explore how to convert hexadecimal numbers to octal numbers using Excel and Google Sheets. Both platforms feature the HEX2OCT function, which simplifies this conversion process.

Basic Syntax:

The HEX2OCT function has the same syntax in both Excel and Google Sheets:

=HEX2OCT(number, [places])

• number: The hexadecimal number you want to convert to octal.
• places (optional): Specifies the number of characters in the returned value. It must be an integer between 1 and 10.

Examples:

Let’s examine how the HEX2OCT function can be applied:

Example 1:

Suppose we have a hexadecimal number B3A in cell A1. To convert this to octal in cell B1, the formula is:

=HEX2OCT(A1)

This formula will yield the octal equivalent of B3A, which is 5512.

Example 2:

If you wish to specify the number of characters in the result, you can include the places argument. For instance, if the hexadecimal number 1D8F is in cell A2 and we desire an octal conversion with only 3 characters, the formula would be:

=HEX2OCT(A2, 3)

This results in 341.

Use Cases:

The HEX2OCT function is invaluable in environments that utilize different numeric bases. It facilitates several tasks, such as:

• Converting hexadecimal color codes to octal for specific software needs.
• Translating memory addresses from hexadecimal to octal format.
• Supporting low-level programming that requires octal numbers.

With the HEX2OCT function, these conversions become straightforward, eliminating the need for manual computations.

More information: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/hex2oct-function-54d52808-5d19-4bd0-8a63-1096a5d11912