Can a DBase be updated on a timed Basis?

[Sharontha]

I have a database that i am building for one of our stores and it has to be updated 2 or 3 times a day. Is it possibe for me to create a process to update this databse for example every morning at 6AM without creating an update macro that has to be clicked? Please remember i'm new to access so go slow on me. As usual you guys are the best thanks for all the help you have provided me so far. I erally appreciate it.

 

[Rich]

What do you mean by "updated"?

 

[Sharontha]

Hi Rich,
The data which is used in this database is pulled out from out network tables and the tables which the data is pulled out from is linked. Everytime i click the update macro it makes tables using the linked tables for the purpose of analysis. This has to be done almost every other day to refresh the new tables with updated sales data.

 

[Ken Grubb]

First, create your Macro in Access and test it to make sure it's doing what you want.

Now, assuming you don't mind leaving your Workstation turned on overnight to do the work for you at 6AM, this will work.

Write a .BAT file to run Access using your database and the macro you specify.

The command line syntax you need in the .BAT file is:
"C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office\MSAccess.exe" "C:\My Documents\MyDatabase.mdb" /x MyMacro

Your paths to Access and the database are probably different. You can name your macro anything you like, but it's generally a good idea to use some naming convention so others know it's a Macro. I prefix all Macros with mcr, like mcrKensCoolMacro. And do include the quote marks around pathnames with long file names.

Use Task Scheduler to run your .BAT file at the times you specify throughout the day. I have several that run throughout the day. Task Scheduler and Access do the work for me.

HTH,

 

[Sharontha]

Ken,
Thank's much for your help!!

 

[antomack]

There is a product out there called 'Handy Access Launcher' or HAL that allows one to schedule the launch of Access applications. I have not used it so can't really vouch for it but it might solve your problem.

 

[Ken Grubb]

Here's a link for HAL. Does sound like an interesting tool, but I do think one should delve a bit into .BAT file automations -- if only for educational purposes.

Connections to remote sites, FTP GET of files, archival of old data files, etc. probably can't be handled by HAL. These kinds of ancillary functions seem to always creep into one's job description, but it does give one an edge as a developer.

If one becomes bored or frustrated writing .BAT files, check into VBScripts. I've converted most, if not all, of my .BAT files to .VBS files. More powerful and it's more in line with VBA.

HTH,

 

[Sharontha]

Thanks much guys!