New Upload weather data from web services into TM1/Planning Analytics — Read the post →

Getting Started with Slice – Installation and Connection

Slice is a free Microsoft Excel add-in that connects directly to the TM1 REST API. It is fast, easy to install, works over the internet, supports TM1 hierarchies, and is compatible with existing reports built in Perspectives or formula mode in Planning Analytics for Excel (PAfE).

Prerequisites

  • TM1 version: TM1 11 or later is required. Some features may work on TM1 10.2.2, but many important APIs are only available in TM1 11+.

  • TM1 REST API: The REST API must be enabled on your TM1 server. Enable it by setting the HTTPPortNumber parameter in tm1s.cfg, for example: HTTPPortNumber=8111.

  • Arc server: Slice uses Arc to connect to TM1 instances. It is recommended to use a centralized Arc server so all users share the same connection configuration.

  • Slice version: Keep Slice in sync with the version of Arc in use when connecting to a remote Arc server.

Where to Install Slice

Slice is an Excel Add-In and must be installed on each user's personal computer. All users can then connect to a single centralized Arc server.

Downloading Slice

Slice is available to download for free from the Cubewise website. Navigate to the Downloads section to get the latest installer.

Installation Steps

Run the Slice installer and follow the on-screen prompts. The installation process is straightforward — refer to the Installation Guide for detailed steps.

Configuration

After installation, configure Slice using the Settings button in the Slice Excel ribbon. See the Configuring Slice Settings page for a full walkthrough.

Connecting to TM1 Instances

Slice connects to TM1 instances through Arc. Any instance with the TM1 REST API enabled and an open HTTPPortNumber is accessible.

To connect to all TM1 instances on a specific server, update the adminhost parameter in the settings.yml file.

To connect to an IBM Planning Analytics Cloud SaaS instance, follow the Arc connection guide for cloud environments.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

If Arc cannot connect to your TM1 instances:

  1. Verify the TM1 REST API is accessible from your browser.

  2. Double-check your credentials — note that the CAM Namespace is case-sensitive.

  3. Review additional connection settings such as SSO with CAM or OpenID authentication.

Getting Help

If you need assistance, raise a support request on the Cubewise support platform.