While it is quite easy to Link tables in Access, Managing them is entirely a different ballgame. Here we look at critical steps which are needed to manage them effectively
Managing Access databases and managing split Access databases is different yet similar to a great extent. Irrespective of whether the database you are using is split or not, you need to make sure that it is working effectively at all times. This will require you to manage your databases well. Now you might feel that after working on the application for long, you certainly know how to manage databases. But this might not be the case. If you have split your Access databases to link it to related tables, then the management tips you need to follow will also differ.
Given below are three key tips that will help you manage your Access databases in a better way. To ensure that you never come across an Oops moment.
Always Keep In Mind That You Are Dealing With a Linked Table
Now if you have worked more on non-split databases, then you might just be in a habit of using the design tab to make any changes in your databases. This can happen very smoothly when the data is stored in local tables, which is not the case in non-split databases. So here you will not be allowed to make changes in the database through the design tab. Since the split database stores all data in the backend database, you will have to first make all changes in the backend, and then implement them across the database.
You might have to Re-link the tables
If at any point you decided to change the location of your backend database or make changes in several backend tables, you might just have to re-link a lot of tables. If you have only made design changes but not changed the backend location, you can opt for just refreshing your databases
Add links to other tables
If you feel the need to add another table to your database, you will have to add it to the backend and then link it to the frontend. But how will you do this?
- In the ribbon, select ‘External Data’ tab.
- Go to the Import and Link Group and select ‘Access’ button.
- Do not select the Access button in the Export group.
- Add the location of new objects and select from the Import or ink option.
We would advise you to make use of the Link option instead of Import, as the import option will land you with a copy of the table in the frontend as well as the backend.
Why you should Split your Access Databases
You might be thinking that if linking tables makes the databases challenging to manage, then why should we opt for linking them all together? Managing linked databases is not as complex a challenge as you think it is. In-fact by splitting the database it will become easier for you to manage all the data since it would be divided into backend and frontend. By splitting the databases you will also be able to add more data and still save on the space occupied. Moreover, it will be easier to repair mdb or accdb database when it is split into several small ones.
Author Introduction:
Vivian Stevens is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, Inc., which is the world leader in data recovery technologies, including mdf recovery and excel recovery software products. For more information visit www.datanumen.com
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