Avoiding Duplicate Data

[ITbeast]

Hello,

Can someone think of a way that I can ensure that duplicate data isn't input into my database. I have a house_table that has a primary key which is form_id. Then a fname_table and a lname_table that reference the house_table via the form_id. So since there can be multiple first and last names, that table doesn't have a primary key.

So my problem is if a user accidently exports records to my database that were already previsouly exported it will create duplicate records in the fname_table and lname_table, but since I have the form_id as the primary key on the house_table that won't have duplicate records.

Any suggestions are welcome. I've made great strides in the realm of Access Databases, but I can't think of a good way to solve this problem.

 

[PHV]

Why not having a composite PK ?

Hope This Helps, PH.
Want to get great answers to your Tek-Tips questions? Have a look at FAQ219-2884 or FAQ181-2886

 

[ITbeast]

PHV,

I am a noob with Access for the most part. As I'm completing this project for my company, I'm learning a great deal.

I'm not sure what a composite PK is? How do I create it?

 

[PHV]

A Primary Key (aka PK) may be set up with several fields and thus become composite.
For example, in the Table design view of fname_table, multiselect fname_ID and form_ID and then click the primary key button.

Hope This Helps, PH.
Want to get great answers to your Tek-Tips questions? Have a look at FAQ219-2884 or FAQ181-2886