I want to run a start up form that appears only when the data base starts for about 10 seconds, then closes, and opens a switch board. I no I could do this with code, but not sure how!!!!!

Have a look at some of the samples supplied with access, Northwind, Solutions etc, they have splash screens.

First create the startup form, it can be unbound. In the On timer event for the form enter code something like this.

Docmd.Close
Docmd.OpenForm "Your Switchboard Name"

In the timer interval enter 10000

Note: 1000 = 1 sec

Go to Tools and Startup. There is a Display/Form/Page: combo box. Enter your startup form here.

That should be it.

The other option is to create a *.bmp image with the same name as your database and in the same dir. This will then be your splash screen each time you enter your database.