IMSEC Function

Excel 2013+

Summary

The Excel IMSEC function calculates the secant of a complex number expressed in x+yi or x+yj format. This advanced mathematical function is essential for complex analysis and engineering calculations involving hyperbolic trigonometry.

Syntax

IMSEC(inumber)

Parameters

Parameter Type Required Description
inumber Complex Number Yes A complex number (text format x+yi or x+yj) for which you want the secant value

Using the IMSEC Function

IMSEC is used in advanced mathematical computations involving complex numbers, particularly in fields like electrical engineering, physics, and signal processing where secant calculations for non-real numbers are required. Pair it with COMPLEX function to create inputs from real/imaginary components.

Common IMSEC Examples

Basic Complex Secant

=IMSEC("4+3i")

Calculates secant of complex number 4+3i, returning approximately -0.0653-0.0752i

Using COMPLEX Helper

=IMSEC(COMPLEX(4,3))

Converts real (4) and imaginary (3) parts to complex number then calculates secant

Frequently Asked Questions

Must be valid complex number text in x+yi or x+yj format, or created using COMPLEX function.

Returns #NUM! for invalid complex format, #VALUE! for logical values.

Common Errors and Solutions

#NUM!

Cause: inumber not in valid x+yi or x+yj format

Solution: Use COMPLEX() to create properly formatted complex numbers

#VALUE!

Cause: inumber is logical value

Solution: Ensure input is numeric or proper complex text

Notes

  • Convert real/imaginary parts using COMPLEX(real_num, i_num)
  • Results returned in standard x+yi complex format
  • Part of Excel's comprehensive complex math function set

Compatibility

Available in: Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365

Not available in: Excel 2010 and earlier

Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2013+