Change field type to lookup column

[Guest]

Can you (and if so, how?) change the data type of a populated field to lookup
from a table without losing all the previously input data?

 

[Guest]

Do not change the field in the table but in your form use a list box.

 

[Guest]

Thanks Karl.

However, forms are not being used at this time. Data is entered directly on
the form. I do understand that this field should have been linked to the
correct table from the start to provide the lookup column but... I inherited
this, I didn't create it.

 

[John W. Vinson]

Can you (and if so, how?) change the data type of a populated field to lookup
from a table without losing all the previously input data?

Not at all easily, and as a rule you SHOULD NOT do so: see
http://www.mvps.org/access/lookupfields.htm for a critique of what many of us
consider a misfeature.

It's perfectly easy to use a Combo Box on a form, and to base a Report on a
query. Putting the lookup field in the table isn't necessary to do so.


John W. Vinson [MVP]

 

[fredg]

Thanks Karl.

However, forms are not being used at this time. Data is entered directly on
the form. I do understand that this field should have been linked to the
correct table from the start to provide the lookup column but... I inherited
this, I didn't create it.

forms are not being used at this time. Data is entered directly on the form.

Oh really! If forms are not being used, how can you enter data on the
form? <gr>

It doesn't matter who created it. No one is pointing blame.
However you are the one modifying it. Do it correctly.

Tables are for data storage, not for data entry. Use a form! If you
like the table layout, simple set the Form View property to Datasheet.
A combo box placed on a form (including Datasheet View) is the correct
way to go.

Change the corresponding field datatype in the Table to the combo
box's bound column, the ID field. Make sure the table that contains
the combo box values has the correct field relationship to the field
in the main table. It's usually the ID field.

 

[Guest]

Thanks for your help John. I have read on a few web sites that lookup
columns aren't the best way to go but, this is the first time I have seen a
list of reasons why.

 

[netys49]

Oh really! If forms are not being used, how can you enter data on the
form? <gr>

It doesn't matter who created it. No one is pointing blame.
However you are the one modifying it. Do it correctly.

Tables are for data storage, not for data entry. Use a form! If you
like the table layout, simple set the Form View property to Datasheet.
A combo box placed on a form (including Datasheet View) is the correct
way to go.

Change the corresponding field datatype in the Table to the combo
box's bound column, the ID field. Make sure the table that contains
the combo box values has the correct field relationship to the field
in the main table. It's usually the ID field.