MDE files with Access 2000

[rt97]

I have an MDE file that reads MSAccess97 database files.
The MDE application works fine on computers that only have
runtime Access 97. When I try to execute the MDE file
using a computer that has runtime MS Access 97 and regular
Access 2000 installed I get a message asking me if I want
to convert the database to ver. 2000 or not. I
select "open database" instead of "convert databse" and
get the message "you can't convert or enable an MDE file".

PS. I need to continue to use Access97 for the database to
maintain compatability with other software that uses the
database.

 

[Rick Brandt]

I have an MDE file that reads MSAccess97 database files.
The MDE application works fine on computers that only have
runtime Access 97. When I try to execute the MDE file
using a computer that has runtime MS Access 97 and regular
Access 2000 installed I get a message asking me if I want
to convert the database to ver. 2000 or not. I
select "open database" instead of "convert databse" and
get the message "you can't convert or enable an MDE file".

PS. I need to continue to use Access97 for the database to
maintain compatability with other software that uses the
database.

If it's asking you if you want to convert it then it is trying to open it
with Access 2000, not the 97 Runtime. Create a shortcut that explicitly
points to the 97 Runtime executable and then the file you want to open.
Something like...

"Path to 97 Runtime executable" "Path to MDE"

Whenever there are two versions of Access on a PC double-clicking a file
will cause Windows to use whichever was the last version of Access opened.
You pretty much need to use explicit shortcuts as described above or (with
licensed versions) open Access first and then specify the file to open from
within Access.

 

[Van T. Dinh]

It sounds like the (full-version) A2K is trying to open the A97-format MDE.
You need to use the (run-time) A97 software to open the A97-format MDE file.
Probably, the easiest way is to create a shortcut icon with the command
line:

"Full path to run-time 97 MSAccess.exe" "Full path to MDE"