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How To Export perfmon Data to CSV

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    Introduction

    Perfmon is a valuable tool for monitoring and analyzing system performance in a Windows environment. Exporting data from Perfmon to CSV allows for more flexible data manipulation and reporting.

    In this guide, you will learn the steps to export data from Perfmon to CSV efficiently. Additionally, we'll explore how Sourcetable lets you analyze your exported data with AI in a simple to use spreadsheet.

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    Exporting PerfMon Data to CSV Format

    • Using relog.exe Utility

      The relog.exe utility, located in the WINDOWS\System32 directory, is an essential tool for converting binary PerfMon log files (.blg) to CSV format. To convert a BLG file to a CSV file, use the command:

      relog input.blg -f csv -o output.csv

      This command creates a new performance log in CSV format from the existing BLG file, allowing for easier data manipulation and analysis.

    • Setting PerfMon to Use CSV by Default

      To make PerfMon save its data directly as a CSV file, you can change the default log file type. Go to the Performance Counters tab and find the drop-down list labeled "Log format." Here, select the "Text File (comma delimited)" option to ensure that all future performance logs are saved in CSV format.

    • Saving Data Directly from PerfMon

      If you prefer to manually export data collected in PerfMon, first collect the desired data within PerfMon. Right-click on the graph and select "Save Data As." In the subsequent dialog, change the "Save as type" to "Text file (comma delimited)(*.csv)." Name the file and choose your preferred location to store it.

      Once saved, the CSV file can be opened with Excel or similar software to present the data in a more meaningful format.

    • Exporting PerfMon Data for Use in Other Applications

      Performance Monitor data can be saved in locations accessible by other applications like Tableau for further analysis. Ensure that all involved computers are on the same network and set the necessary firewall rules. Change the Run As user settings to gather data from multiple computers, if needed.

    • Summary

      Exporting PerfMon data to CSV format is straightforward and can be achieved using the relog.exe utility, adjusting PerfMon settings to default to CSV, or manually saving data as CSV. These methods simplify the process of analyzing and sharing performance metrics, enhancing overall data accessibility.

    How to Export Your Data to CSV Format Using Perfmon

    Converting Existing BLG Files to CSV

    Existing BLG files can be converted to CSV using the relog command. Use the following format to perform the conversion:

    relog -f csv input.blg -o output.csv

    Setting Perfmon to Use CSV by Default

    You can configure Perfmon to use CSV as the default log format. To do this, navigate to the Performance Counters tab. There, you'll find a drop-down list called Log format. Select Comma separated from the options.

    Creating a New Data Collector Set

    To create a new data collector set, click the Windows Start menu and search for "performance". Right-click Performance Monitor and select Run as administrator. In the left pane, click Data Collector Sets. In the right pane, under User Defined, right-click and select New, then Data Collector Set.

    Setting Up the Data Collector Set

    In the Create New Data Collector Set wizard, enter a name for the set and choose Create manually (Advanced). Under Create data logs, select Performance counter. Add the desired performance counters and set the sample interval to 30 seconds. Click Add.

    Selecting Performance Counters and Log Format

    Select the computer to record performance data for, then choose the performance counters from the list. Click OK and then Next. Browse to the directory to store the data and click Next. Click Finish.

    In the main Performance Monitor window, select the new data collector set in the left pane. In the right pane, right-click DataCollector01 and select Properties. Set the log format to Comma separated and click OK.

    Starting Data Collection

    In the left pane, right-click the name of your data collector set and click Start. Set up permissions for the Run As user account if necessary. Your Perfmon data will now be recorded in CSV format.

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    PerfMon Use Cases

    Monitor Resource Usage and Server Processes

    Use PerfMon to track resource usage and monitor server processes. This includes insights into how often the CPU is active and how much memory is consumed, providing a comprehensive view of system performance.

    Gather Detailed Performance Information

    PerfMon allows you to collect granular performance data through various performance counters and data collector sets. This data is essential for in-depth system analysis and identifying performance bottlenecks.

    Check CPU and Memory Usage

    PerfMon helps in monitoring how frequently the CPU is utilized and measuring memory usage. This assists in optimizing resource allocation and ensuring efficient system operations.

    Analyze Trends in System Performance

    PerfMon can reveal trends in system performance over time by visualizing data in line view. This enables early detection of performance issues and informed decision-making for system tuning.

    Monitor Specific Tableau Server Processes

    Using PerfMon, you can monitor individual Tableau Server processes to ensure they are running efficiently. This detailed process monitoring helps in pinpointing performance issues specific to Tableau Server.

    Leverage PerfMon for System Analysis

    PerfMon facilitates detailed system analysis through performance counter collection, data collector set configuration, and remote access setup. This enables comprehensive monitoring across multiple computers.

    Utilize Different Display Views for Resource Management

    PerfMon offers various display views like Report view, Histogram view, and Line view. Each view serves specific purposes, from visualizing numerical values to showing trends and correlating changes in counter values over time.

    Determine Overall System Performance

    By leveraging PerfMon, you can assess the overall performance of your system. Its underutilized features can provide powerful insights into system reliability and efficiency, aiding in optimal resource management.

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    Why Choose Sourcetable Over Perfmon

    Sourcetable is a powerful alternative to perfmon for managing and analyzing your data. It integrates multiple data sources into one centralized spreadsheet interface, simplifying data management.

    Unlike perfmon, Sourcetable allows you to query data in real-time directly from your database. This ensures you have up-to-date information at your fingertips, enhancing decision-making processes.

    Sourcetable's familiar spreadsheet-like interface makes data manipulation intuitive and efficient. Say goodbye to complex data extraction procedures with Sourcetable's user-friendly platform.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    How can I convert a BLG file to a CSV file?

    You can convert a BLG file to a CSV file using the relog command with the syntax 'relog -f csv input.blg -o output.csv'.

    How do I change the default log file type to CSV in Perfmon?

    To change the default log file type to CSV, go to the Log Files tab in Perfmon and change the log file type to 'Text File (comma delimited)'.

    Can I set CSV as the default log format on Windows 7 and Server 2012?

    Yes, on Windows 7 and Server 2012, you can set CSV as the default log format by selecting it from the Log format drop-down list on the Performance Counters tab.

    What are the steps to export Performance Monitor data to a CSV file?

    First collect your data, right click the graph, select 'Save Data As', change the 'Save as type' to 'Text file (comma delimited)(*.csv)', give the file a name, and save the file where you want to store it.

    How can I present Performance Monitor data in Excel?

    You can open the saved CSV file in Excel to present the data.

    Conclusion

    Exporting data from perfmon to CSV is a straightforward process that ensures you have access to your performance monitoring data in a versatile format. By following the outlined steps, you can effectively manage and analyze your data.

    Now that you have your CSV file, consider using Sourcetable to leverage AI-driven insights in an intuitive spreadsheet environment.

    Sign up for Sourcetable today to enhance your data analysis capabilities.

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