Tables and Calculated Values

[fraser_lindsay]

I have been reading previous post s regarding the storing of calculated fields. Basically everybody says don't do it. However, if I don't I am not sure how to achieve what I need to achieve.

I am storing data on tool vibration levels. Data is input for X, Y and Z axes and a vector sum (total) is calculated on the fly using a query. So I only ever store X,Y and Z.

Ultimately I am looking for this database to be able to give me useful statistical outputs in particular a range of vector sums for a tool type. If I don't actually store the vector sum for each test then how I am ever going to report a range? The data would never change for each test as these become statictics, it's not the same as working out rates for example which may vary according to parameters.

What is the best way to do this?

 

[neileg]

Any place you would use a table, you can use a query. So your reporting would be based on the queries where you do your calculation.

 

[fraser_lindsay]

ok, thanks. I'll try that then