Accessing relational database in a form

[Graeme Willox]

I'm a beginner with Access 2000, but I'm still sure that the answer to
this question is staring me in the face.

I've linked some tables. My plan is to have my main table with another
linked containing names of staff members. Actually, to be precise, it
has the names and payroll numbers of staff members. I'm storing the
payroll number in my main table and using the linked table to display
the person's name beside the payroll number as names are obviously more
meaningful for people using the database.

If I view the tables directly, I can change values and select the values
I want. When I use a form I've created, I can see the other values
applicable for the field. If I try to select that value, Access beeps
and won't let me change the value. It doesn't produce an error message.

I've never really got my head around relational databases (because I've
been too lazy, really). Perhaps what I really need is some help in
determining what type of relationship I need and whether there are
particular attributes on the form which may need setting.

I'm not really sure. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[Guest]

You haven't stated anything about primary and foreign key fields. If you
expect a query to be updateable then you need to understand table
relationships and stuff you have apparently been avoiding.