ID fields: data type differs in linked tables

[adrian.stock22]

I have a database consisting of three linked tables, with ID as unique identifier (primary key).

I would have expected the data type for my unique identifier, especially in the main table, to be Autonumber. However, I discovered with some surprise that the primary key (ID) in

Table 1 (Main table) is data type: number, field size: double

whereas in table 2 and table 3 the ID is data type: autonumber (field size: long integer)

It must have happend "SOMEHOW" when I divided the original single table.

Is this as it should be? Or could it lead to trouble later on?

If not as should be, is there anything I can do right now to rectify the situation with risking upsetting the relationships and all?

What precautions should I take, apart from taking a backup?

Thanks for your help.

Adrian

 

[Len Boorman]

This looks a little fishy.

I would have expected the Autonumber to be a Primary Key.

The other two tables to which this fields links would be numbers. They would be there as Foreign Keys and also performing the role of Primary key.

I suggest that you check exactly how the links are set up.

I think it would be unusual to link from a Number to and Autonumber although not impossible by any means. More usual the other way around.

As I said check which way the links are going very carefully. Ideferential integrity enforced ?, Cascade update and delete enabled ?


Len

 

[adrian.stock22]

Thank you, Len, for confirming my suspicions. This somehow happened inadvertently when (with due ignorance) I divided an original large table into three related tables. Will now, armed with your advice, go to someone local who knows more than I do and try to safely put it right.

tx

Adrian