2007 and 2003 compatibility

[SueBK]

I have a database designed entirely in Access 2003. Our computers were recently upgraded to Office 2007, but still running Access 2003. The database works fine on my machine. But the client, who runs 2003, can not use it any more. Obviously, this is a bit of a problem.

We've gone through this once before, when one of our designer got caught by the trial roll out of 2007; but none of us can remember what it was we did to fix it.

Any ideas?

 

[boblarson]

When you say "the client can't run it." What do you mean? What error messages appear? What actually occurs when they start the database, or try to run different parts. Being specific here is important because there are a LOT of different possibilities.

 

[SueBK]

Unfortunately, I wasn't the bunny that got to try and run it on the client's machine I have a call into someone to find exactly what happens at their end. My understanding is, though, that it simply doesn't run. Will clarify soon.

 

[boblarson]

Yes, more info is definitely needed (screenshots of the error or problem may also help).

 

[mcclunyboy]

could be the file types!?

if someone converted it for office 2007 use any previous version of access wouldn't recognise the new file type.

 

[Atomic Shrimp]

It could be references - if the app does any interaction with other Office applications.

To check this, open the application, press <Alt><F11> to open the VBA editor, then click tools>references. Anything marked 'Missing' needs to be unchecked and replaced with the best available alternative from the list (i.e. if it says Missing: Excel 12.0 Object library, you'll need to uncheck that and scroll down to check whatever version of the Excel lobrary you *do* have).

That still might not fix all and every problem, because later versions of Office typically have more and different methods and properties exposed - so an application designed in one version may be asking to do something that isn't supported in another.

 

[yoshimura]

Just wanted to jump in and say that I have the exact same problem.
I 'inherited' the database that was being used for a few years now, created in 2003.
Slowly, everyone is being migrated to 2007. I was one of the first and I just continued working on the database.

The exact same problem arose: 2003 users can no longer use most forms (Format function errors comes to mind, plus several others).
Even though I recreated the database in 2003 format, not 2007 standard format.

My current solution is to have a true Office 2003 installed to work on the database, so all 2003 and 2007 users can use it.
I tried Access 2003 virtual application, but that doesnt work.

I checked the References in VBA, those are ok, not an issue there.

If anyone can give THE solution, we're all ears.

 

[gemma-the-husky]

its hard to say without seeing the dbs

i have had very few problems. I have a big A2003 dbs (mde) that A2007 wouldnt run properly - errored on a couple fo froms for no reason - but converting to A2007 fixed it ok.

will the dbs compile properly in A2007, or is it coming up with function errors - that tends to indicate reference problems. in particular make sure that ADO and DAO are in the correct order, if you are using both

 

[boblarson]

And I've not had any of my 2003 databases not work in 2007 and not work in 2003 again. So, I think it is really on a case by case basis as to what is happening.