Vehicle Database

[Nebal]

Hello,



I am quite new to Access so bear with me.

I am trying to create a database for several vehicles and their specific codes.

I am having different Brands, with each having different Models, with each having different Generation (Year to Year), with each having different Trims, with each having a Code.

My end goal is to create a form where a user can choose the Brand, and then the Model, and then the Generation, and then the Trim (All using drop-down lists that depend on the one before), and the end result will show the Code.

I understand that this might not be easy for a beginner like, which is why I am requesting some support. (I started it out with Excel but was advised to do it with Access)

How to start such a Database, how many table should I have, and most importantly how to create their relationships and the drop-down query?

Ideally I would like to make it easy to update and easy to add new vehicles or trim or other...

Thanks,
NH

[CarlettoFed]

You should attach the excel file to get a better idea of how to possibly develop the database structure.

[orange]

I suggest you start with pencil and paper and write down the things and the facts involved. Don't be too quick to jump into physical Access. Create a rough model and flesh it out with some sample data and sample scenarios.
You can see some responses a user got when asking a similar question.

Lots of info in the Database Planning and Design link in my signature.

[ranman256]

at least these:
tMakeModels.
tTrims (various trims to choose from)
tVehicles (vehicles you have to pick make/models, year, trim)

[Nebal]

Example.zip

I have uploaded an example file.

I have set out on paper what i believe i need to do. What is have in mind is creating several tables:

- tBrand,
- tModel (where a field for Brand ID is in relationship with tBrand)
- tYear (this, I am not sure how to go about it)
- tTrim (several models have the same name of trim so not sure also how to go on about this one)
- tCode

I have also thought about creating a huge table with all the info piled up into one table. Will that work, which is easier and/or better?

Appreciate your help.

[orange]

Make individual tables and set up relationships. Then for form check out this thread on cascading combos.

You may also get some insight from this thread. Good luck.