How to access athena non-default catalog on tableau desktop and tableau server

In the realm of data visualization, Tableau stands out as a robust tool, enabling users to interact with a wide array of data sources, including Amazon Athena. However, when it comes to accessing non-default catalogs in Athena, both Tableau Desktop and Tableau Server users may find themselves in need of a workaround. This article provides a detailed solution for integrating Tableau with Athena's non-default catalogs, ensuring you can leverage the full potential of your data.

Solution for Tableau Desktop

To access an Athena non-default catalog on Tableau Desktop, follow these steps:

1. Create a Configuration File: Begin by creating a file named athena.properties. This file will contain a single line of text:

   MetadataRetrievalMethod=ProxyAPI
   

   This configuration instructs Tableau on how to retrieve metadata from Athena, enabling the connection to non-default catalogs.

2. Place the File in the Correct Location: Next, you'll need to place this athena.properties file in the right directory on your computer.

   • For Mac Users: Navigate to Finder -> [Username] -> Documents -> My Tableau Repository -> Datasources.
   • For Windows Users: Go to [DRIVE]:\Users\[Windows User]\Documents\My Tableau Repository\Datasources.

3. Restart Tableau Desktop: After placing the file in the correct directory, restart Tableau Desktop. You can now launch Tableau Desktop and connect to Athena. You should be able to list and access the non-default catalog within Tableau Desktop.

Preparing for Tableau Server

Before publishing your workbook to Tableau Server, it's crucial to ensure the server can also access Athena's non-default catalog.

Solution for Tableau Server

1. Copy the athena.properties File to Tableau Server: Depending on your server's operating system, place the file in the following location:
   • For Linux: /var/opt/tableau/tableau_server/data/tabsvc/vizqlserver/Datasources/
   • For Windows: ProgramData/Tableau/Tableau Server/data/tabsvc/vizqlserver/Datasources

Please note that the paths provided here correspond to the default installation locations. If your Tableau Server is installed in a custom location, adjust the path accordingly.

By following these steps, you enable both Tableau Desktop and Tableau Server to access and utilize Athena's non-default catalogs, thus expanding your data analysis capabilities.

Need Professional Help?

If you find yourself stuck or in need of professional assistance with integrating Tableau and Athena's non-default catalogs, don't hesitate to reach out. Tasrie IT Services is here to help you navigate through the process smoothly. Our team of experts can provide the support and guidance you need to ensure seamless integration and help you unlock the full potential of your data. Contact us today, and let's make your data work for you.

Remember, with the right configurations, your Tableau environment can become even more powerful, unlocking the full potential of your data sources, including the extensive capabilities offered by Amazon Athena's non-default catalogs.