Why am I missing columns of data when I bring the .csv into a GIS?

Why am I missing columns of data when I bring the .csv into a GIS?

Unfortunately, when adding a .csv file into older versions of Esri ArcGIS the maximum number of columns that ArcGIS will import is 255, and any additional fields are truncated. This is a known issue to Esri and Microsoft and is outside the control of NHGIS. The latest version of ArcGIS, 10.1, however, has resolved this issue. Users of older versions of ArcGIS may try using the Quick Import tool that is part of the Data Interoperability extension to ArcGIS as a workaround. It is not available, however, for all ArcGIS users. Other solutions do exist and additional information on the issue, along with instructions on using the Quick Import tool, can be found on the User?s Guide page. In addition, be advised that older versions of Microsoft Excel (pre-2007) have the same 255-column limitation.