Access 97 database corrupted and not repairable

[rloibl]

Hello
I have a massive problem with a corrupt Access 97 database. Everytime I try to open it I get the message that Í should repair it. But at repairing the database I get the message "The database can´t be repaired or is no Microsoft Access database". I also tried to compress it but that also didn´t work.
So my big problem is here that I can´t get into the database and I can´t import the files into another one too.

So does anybody know tools/help how you can repair Access database when the normal Access repair function doesn´t help?

Kind regards
Robert

 

[scking]

These are simple questions but need to be answered or tested before proceeding on. Sometimes the easiest answers are overlooked.

1) Have you attempted the hold down the shift key while opening the database. This allow you to bypass the startup form, which, if corrupted by itself, can prevent a user from opening the database. This will not work if the database has the AllowBypass property set to 'False' which is a user defined property but supported my Microsoft.
2) Are you attempting to open a database developed in a newer version of Access. For instance, you can't open an Access 2000 database with Access 97 because it will give you an error much like you stated.

You may even try to open the database in Access 2000 and select the 'Convert' option to see if it will build a 'good' database. You could then use the database utilities to convert it back to Access 97.

Steve King
Growth follows a healthy professional curiosity

 

[Notknown]

I had a siilar problem, but fortunately had an earlier version as a backup - after retreiving the backup it also locked up on me twice.

I got round it by creating a new database and importing all the tables, forms, etc. but of course you need access to the original database first.


Best of luck!

 

[dmassey]

Sometimes if you rename the database before you try to open it, Access can repair it when it couldn't otherwise.

Also, I was having troubles with creating .mde files with access 97. I reinstalled NT Service Pack 6 and have had no problems since.

 

[psemianonymous]

Check the Corrupt MDB FAQ linked below. They have a whole bunch of information on specific error messages as well as possible causes of your error. It all boils down to:

1. Try a compact (apparently failed)
2. Try importing objects from corrupt DB into new DB
3. Try JETCOMP utility (maybe this should be #2?)
4. If you're desperate, try professional firms that specialize in MS Access db data recovery


Once your database is working again, you can check the FAQ again as for problem sources.

--
Find common answers using Google Groups:

http://groups.google.com/groups?group=comp.databases.ms-access

Corrupt MDBs FAQ

http://www.granite.ab.ca/access/corruptmdbs.htm