KB0014: When trying to insert a smart-element, the mouse pointer turns into an hourglass for 10 seconds. The element cannot be inserted.

Cause

The think-cell add-in in PowerPoint is waiting for a connection to Excel. The connection to Excel fails either because your machine is extremely busy or because the think-cell add-in in Excel did not start properly.

Solution

Wait a few seconds and then try again.

Refer to

• If you are running Windows with Stardock WindowBlinds compatibility problems with the think-cell add-in may occur. Refer to KB0008: Stardock WindowBlinds is incompatible with think-cell
• If the problem persists, possibly KB0005: Excel automatically disabled the think-cell add-in.