An external-sheet source represents one registered tab and the snapshots received for it. Registering identifiers does not contact Google. Arrange the supplying service separately and inspect the source's actual receipt status before using its data.
Register the tab
An Owner opens External sheets and Register a sheet. Enter Display name, Spreadsheet ID, Tab ID and Expected refresh interval in minutes. The interval is a freshness check, not a schedule. Use the exact identifiers of the tab the supplier will export.
Inspect the registered source and its recognised fields. Keep its source identity with the receiving configuration. Another tab in the same spreadsheet is another source; it should not overwrite this tab merely because the columns look the same.
Preview a received snapshot
Owners and Operators can use Test the receiving connection and Open manual snapshot test. Choose Preview snapshot and inspect Parameters and Data rows under Check the snapshot. Keep exact text, types and source binding. A parameter describes the whole tab, while data rows carry its records.
Accept this snapshot replaces the source's current parameters and all rows together. Use a dedicated test source when connected applications still need the existing data. Preview is an inspection step, not proof of acceptance. Confirm the resulting source revision and receipt time after accepting the intended complete snapshot. A failed receive retains the last good snapshot with its failed-refresh status.
Read errors and freshness honestly
A failed refresh and a stale snapshot are different conditions from an empty accepted dataset. Read the source status and visible reason. Do not interpret a failure as a successful empty response or substitute another source profile without review.
Refresh history lists accepted snapshots. Compare its revision and time with the source detail and any query or feed evidence that consumed it. Viewer access reads this evidence but cannot refresh it.
Ordinary snapshots do not establish authenticated observation timestamps by adding similarly named columns. Qualified source observations have their own producer and metadata contract. Follow Use source observations when a reviewed selection depends on age, completeness or explicit withdrawal.