Upgrade to 10 from 2003

[wilpeter]

In contemplating conversion of 2003 databases to Office 10, I wonder if my 32-bit XP can permit both Office Pro installations (2003 & 2010) without conflict. Would partitioning be better? or must I use a new PC with Win 7 and keep the 2003 database in the XP PC until successfully converted?

 

[boblarson]

2003 and 2010 should be fine together (2007 and 2010 don't play nice together). But make sure to install in separate file locations. Personally, I would run one of them from a Virtual PC, which is what I do at home. I have 2010 as my primary and then 2003 and 2007 are installed on Virtual machines.

Also, if you do run them on the same machine, be mindful not to open a 2003 db on 2010 unless you want your references and a few other things potentially messed up and then not openable by 2003.

 

[wilpeter]

Thanks Bob. The question of how to accommodate a 2007 user had been discussed, but I thought going first through the 2010 conversion would prepare me better for a possible conversion to 2007 later. I've never used a "virtual" approach...must look that up. Otherwise, keep the app on one PC and import just the files to the 2010 PC.
Re the 32 or 64bit question, no problem then?

 

[boblarson]

Re the 32 or 64bit question, no problem then?

It is highly suggested to use the 32 bit version of Office (Access) even if you have a 64 bit version of Windows. There is no problem doing so but if you go to 64 bit Office then there can be some real problems.

 

[wilpeter]

Thanks again, Bob. I have the extra PC anyway, so might as well keep them separate.