ASCII files

[domineaux]

I have to convert many ASCII database files.

They are structured like ini files.

They have a:
---Subject line CR,
---Comment Line CR
---Value line (1 to many lines with Comma delimits between many value items
each record line is followed by CR

There are multiples of the above that have different information and the
number of records per subject and fields per value line can vary.

This is what has to be doable:
The files are large and I need to build an application with entry and spin
boxes to accomodate(Insert field data, edit field data, and delete field
data, along with record lines) within the structured content of the files. I
can use internal queue type database to provide information for the field
items.

I need to load each file, making a backup copy before editing the file. The
file will then load within the application and users can add-to, delete and
change the structured data within the file. The file will then be saved
after editing.

THe changes cannot be appended to the end of the file, they must place in
the file precisely where the user inserted, changed or deleted information.

I've not programmed the Visual Studio or Office. I do have a 2002 version
of the Visual Studio.net and the latest Office Ultimate edition, which
includes Access.

I'm kinda rushed on this project so a most effcient tool would be a best
choice.

I do need to compile the application into a run type executable when finished.

I could just use a few suggestions for the MSFT programming language to use
and possibly any links to information to speed up the development process.

Thanks

 

[Allen Browne]

If you want to create a stand-alone executable that manipuates this kind of
file directly, keeping the data in that format, then Microsoft Access is not
the right tool for the job.

Perhaps you could ask the question in a VB group.