How to generate unique random alphanumeric 32 character codes?

Hi all,

I would need to generate unique random alphanumeric 32 character codes in Excel 2007. Preferably by using a formula, because I'm not that familiar with vba macros yet, but vba solution for this would also be much appreciated.

Moreover, if possible I would also need to add 7-16 prefixed characters in front of the 32 character code.

Regards

Jussi

in column A type out your selection of numbers and characters to pick from,

Then:
=INDEX(A1:A36,randbetween(1,36))
would give you a random character from that column.

put that in 32 columns and then use the concatenate function to put it into one string in a cell, you can hide all the "helper" columns if neccessary.

It won't test for "uniqueness" but I can't imagine that would be a problem, the chances of getting the same result twice must be pretty much impossible, or at least a bigger number than I can give a name to.

Thanks, this works almost as I want it to.

To clarify a bit my situation. I need to create these unique codes for FX trade contracts and when those are reported to a third party each trade should have a unique code. When using the formula above, it does generate exactly the 32 character code that I need, but when I paste the formula to new cells, this formula generates new codes to all cells, not only to the new cell to which I paste the formula.

So is there a way that the old codes would remain the same, and the new codes that are generated would check those earlier generated codes in order not to create the same code. I know that it's almost impossible to have exactly same code, but if it's possible make sure of this it would be great.

Regards

Jussi

when you generate a code, copy and paste special - values.

I really don't think it's neccessary to check if it's unique there must be around
1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000
possibilities.

Thanks for both of you! I'll create the list of codes by using one of these suggestions and see if my boss approves

Regards,

Jussi