Access files being opened on multiple computers

[weircolin]

Hi

In our office I have been improving the database we are using. What I
am wondering is if the database is able to be open on more than one
computer at a time and all the information being added will be saved?

Thanks

Colin

 

[Jeff Boyce]

Colin

A standard solution in Access to "multi-users" is to split the database.
This involves putting all the data (i.e., the tables) in one Access .mdb
file, and locating that file on a network shared by all users. The
remaining pieces (i.e., the "front-end") is duplicated and copied to every
user's PC.

The front-end uses "linked tables" to see the "back-end" data.

Regards

Jeff Boyce
Microsoft Office/Access MVP

 

[Guest]

Colin,

There is certainaly no problem with having multiple users using one databse
application. However, you should look into splitting your application into a
Front-end/Backend application.

This means having the storage tables in one mdb (of some other relational
database) file, then back-end, and all of your forms, queries, modules and
reports in another mdb file, the front-end. Then linking the front-end to
the backend. You would then distribute your front-end file to each person
that is going to use your application. This is the best way to utilize the
features of Access and accomplish your goals.

 

[Guest]

The answer is yes, but don't do it that way. It sounds from your post that
your database is not split. It should be. The correct configuration is to
split the database into a front end and back end using the database splitter.
(Tools, Database Utilities, Database Splitter). You will end up with a back
end that contains only tables and relationships. All other objects will be
in the front end. The front end will use the data in the back end by linking
to the tables.

Now, the back end should be located on a shared folder to which all users
have permissions. The front end should then be linked to the back end. Note
it is wise to use UNC paths for linking because not all users will have the
same drive mappings.

Each user should have their own copy of the front end on their computer.

Not only will you run less risk of corruption and get better performance, it
will be easier to make modification in a test environment. You don't have to
worry about the data, each user just copys the new version of the front end
to their computer.

 

[Albert D. Kallal]

you can...and you find the following read helpful..


http://www.members.shaw.ca/AlbertKallal/Articles/split/index.htm

 

[weircolin]

Thanks everyone, appreciate your replies.

I'm making more changes to things on the database, once I have finished
them I will do the split.

Thanks again

 

[weircolin]

Sorry everyone, being a bit stupid here. Do I just create shortcuts to
the main form on each of the computers on the network for this or is
there a better way of doing it?

Cheers

Colin

 

[Jeff Boyce]

Re-check the responses. You do NOT want to use a single "front-end" on the
network. Instead, create a front-end, then copy it to each desktop.

Regards

Jeff Boyce
Microsoft Office/Access MVP