Compatibility problem from 2010 to 2007

[tad0075]

Hi All -
Until recently, I was using Access 2010 but was downgraded to 2007 because of compatibility issues between the 2 versions. I now have a 2010 database that cannot be opened in my current version (2007), and it looks like I will have to recreate a ton of custom code if I can't recover it.

From previous experience, I expect the compatibility issue is with the default format of the forms (that's to say that I never intentionally used an Access 2010 function that broke compatibility, but the compatibility was broken as soon as the form was created or opened in 2010). As it stands, I can't open, link to, or import from the 2010 database.

I know this has been an issue for some time. Does anyone have a tool or method to backward-convert a 2010 database to 2007? You would be a life saver!

Thanks,
Tyler

 

[spikepl]

One of the things that kill possibility to revert back are the layouts of controls. In 2010 when you delete a control that sits in a layout, then an empty "thinggy" remains, and that is not compatible wirh 2007. But you can select it and delete it.

I had to go back with one db. Not knowing where the incompatibility was located I used the method of halving the code: you import half of what you have into a new db (a2010!), and check if that can be opened in 2007. If that works then in next round import that and 50% of the remainder. If not, then just 50% of what you set out with. And so on and on. You can narrow down issues fairly quickly ... and yes, it can be a lot of work.

If you only have 2007 then I have no idea. Moneywise it may be most efficient to buy one a2010, instead of rewriting code from scratch.

 

[tad0075]

Thanks, spikepl! I'm working on getting access to 2010 on a virtual desktop so I can use both simultaneously.

I also found a good msdn article on the issue that outlines a long list of features with compatibility issues. (https://msdn.microsoft.com/library/office/dn602608(v=office.14).aspx)

It won't be easy, but it should be a lot easier than rebuilding the whole thing from scratch!

Tyler

P.S.: Can I vent about "layout of controls" causing such a major compatibility issues? a) I don't even like the new layouts in 2010, and 2) why make such a major change around something as insignificant as layouts? Connection strings, calculated columns, and added web features I can understand... but layout? Come on, Microsoft. </vent>