Power BI Semantic Model data can be ingested into the Metric Insights Platform in two distinct ways: either via the OleDB provider over a Remote Data Processor (RDP) or via the DAX-based REST API.

• RDP-based approach: Queries are executed over an RDP host using the OleDB provider. The plugin initiates an RDP session, runs DAX or MDX queries against both V1 (classic) and V2 workspaces, and returns full result sets without row or value caps. This setup requires you to provision and maintain an RDP server with Analyze in Excel and .NET installed.
• REST API approach: The plugin calls the Power BI DAX API directly via HTTP, without needing RDP. This method supports only DAX queries on V2 workspaces and enforces a maximum of 100 000 rows or 1 000 000 scalar values per request.

Choosing between these approaches depends on your infrastructure and reporting needs. The OleDB over RDP method is suited for high-volume, complex, or legacy workloads but requires you to provision and maintain a remote agent and its dependencies. The REST API option is ideal for lightweight extracts and environments where provisioning an RDP server isn’t feasible, provided you stay within its volume limits. Adjust the parameter OleDB: Collect Data from OleDB in your Power BI plugin connection profile accordingly to match your infrastructure and workload needs.