Problem with linking table

[stpiepgr]

Hi all,

I am sure that this has been covered before but I have searched the old posts and have been unable to find a solution.

I am trying to link a dbf table to my database. The error that I receive is that "The Microsoft Jet database engine could not find the object 'mlwma_4Brk_csa_10102003.dbf'. Make Sure that the object exists and that you spell the path and name correctly"

If I copy the file and shorten the name to only 8 characters (mlwma_4B.dbf) the link works correctly. Renaming isn't an option however as this file is used by several other software programs to do actual data update. My database just uses it for some reporting functions. I would prefer not to have to make a copy and rename each time a change is made to the original dbf. Is there a way to work around the 8 character limitation?

Thanks..........Steve

 

[Tiro Cupidus]

I experimented a little with it, and this should work.

1. Open the .dbf in Excel
2. Copy the range of cells that you want to be the linked table
3. Open a new Excel file
4. Paste Special -> Paste Link (lower left of box)
5. Save the new file, which is a link to the .dbf
6. Link the new Excel file in Access

 

[stpiepgr]

Thanks Tiro,

I never thought about creating an Excel link to the dbf....this looks like it will work great. Appreciate the help!!

Steve