MS Access - how to make executable

[markajem]

I have created a small database with forms etc. I want some office workers to useit but don't want them to have access to creating new tables etc. I just want them to be able to use the forms I created for data entry. This is a basic database and I have just learned to use Access. How do you create an executable? I tried the method of Tools > Startup but then when I click OK in the Startup window then nothing happens or appears.

Any clues or hints would be appreciated.

Thanks


Mark
Email: markanas333@hotmail.com

 

[cheerio]

I think you are trying to specify a problem and a solution. You are not going to get an executable in the way you want.

If you simply do not want users to be able to modify the design you can convert the database to an MDE file (see Tools, Database Utilities). You must ensure you retain a copy of the mdb file as you will not be able to alter the mde. The users will need a full copy of Access on their machines.

MDE files have some disadvantages as some actions might be regarded as a redesign. So, for example, you cannot have code that adds buttons to a form. An alternative is to retain the mdb format but totally lock down the user interface so that users cannot see the database window, built in menus or toolbars. It is quite difficult to achieve a solution that would block a serious attempt.

You could try to use a developer edition that allows you to circulate a runtime version. End users do not need Access. I am not current on this but there used to be issues if your machine did not have exactly the same OS as the other users. This was because the runtime package that you distributed picked up all the dll files necessary and these included some that were OS specific.

Starting from scratch you could develop forms in Visual Basic and compile those to an executable. However, you then enter a different world of form design and lose things like Access reports.

 

[bluedragon2]

I agree with cheerio. I have made executables in the past, but they become a nightmare to deal with if you need to make any changes. I also suggest to lock down your mdb. It makes making any changes alot easier. Also, if you have to clean the database tables or or such will be alot easier as well.

Blue

As far as why you can't make an executable...Do you have the right edition of access that will allow you to create one?

 

[markajem]

Did not realize I needed a certain version of Access to make an executable file. My users would not make it a point to try and do damage or anything like that. Just wanted to be able to make an executable so there are less buttons etc; tends to be intimidating for some people. No problem, I will work around it

Thanks


Mark
Email: markanas333@hotmail.com

 

[jkonline2]

You can remove buttons for the user by slecting the startup option unter the tools menu. There are then a list of tick boxes of which buttons to display.

 

[dgwilliams]

Im not sure if yiu know this (probably) but you dont have to create an executable just to hide the databse view. you can set it so when it openss up switchboard appears and the database window is hidden. A simple macro can acheive this aswell.

 

[PepeLeMokko]

May I suggest you use the " split database" option. You will find info at this link:

http://users.bigpond.net.au/abrowne1/ser-01.html

(PS check the Access forums instead of the General forums, you will have much more information there).

Good Luck

 

[markajem]

Okay thanks


Mark
Email: markanas333@hotmail.com