Hi there,

I am attempting to put together a query to allow me to export records from an access database. The records are held in three related tables. When I put the query together in the query window, requesting all fields from all tables, I get a message telling me there are too many fields defined. Is there anyway around this limitation? I really need to set up a facility to allow me to export and import records from this database.

Appreciate any help or suggestions.

Cheers,
Alan

I used to get this error when I was using Access 97, but not since we upgraded to 2002.

What I did to workaround was to use a series of 'simpler' queries, using the previous query as source. I never figured out how many fields was 'too many', but whenever I hit the error, I just stopped developing in that query, and then used that query as the source in the next query, specifying the '*' option to select all of the prior fields. The limitation seemed to be related to the number and complexity of calculated fields in a given query.

Thanks very much for the info. Unfortunately I am not sure how you use another query as a source for a second query - can you explain that to me?

Many thanks,
Alan

Access is almost completely indifferent as to whether you are using tables, queries, or a mix of the two as datasources for a query.

When you are creating a query using the wizard, any existing queries are listed, along with the tables, at the bottom of the list.

If you are using the query design grid, when you select 'show tables', there is a tab or radio button (depending on version) that allows you to select tables or queries to add. 'Tables' is the default choice.

HTH

Hi there,

Thanks again for the advice. Unfortunatley when I select a query to use as a source in my second query I am still getting the "too many fields defined" message.

Any idea how I can get around this?

Many thanks,
Alan