Attach PDF To Record For Viewing

[data808]

I was wondering if it was possible to store a PDF file on a network drive and assign/attach it to a record then be able to view it by clicking a hyper link label or possibly a button that will allow the user to view the attached PDF. For the PDF file path I was thinking of referencing some text boxes in the record itself like username, date, and finally reference number (primary key). The reference number could be the actual file name of the PDF so it knows which file to pull up for viewing.



If this is possible, could someone work with me to build it from the ground up? I will definitely need help with the VBA.

Thank you very much for your time.

[Micron]

To me, your post implies that you want the record to contain a file reference (that would be its file path). That means a table field that contains file path as part of the record. If there could be several files related to the record, you should have a table for attachment records. Best method IMO is to use a file dialog (e.g. msoFileDialogFilePicker) that you open from your form, choose the file from Windows File Explorer (that is basically what you end up opening) and store the path in the record. While you can store files in an attachment field in Access, you would be wise to not do so due to db bloat.

reference number (primary key). The reference number could be the actual file name of the PDF

No. PK fields should never be meaningful data. Might be a good idea for you to review for that pointAbout Auto Numbers
- http://access.mvps.org/access/general/gen0025.htm

If you search, you will find many pages on how to use the file dialogs.

[Gicu]

If you have the 32 version of Office\Access you can have a look at the attached sample that allows you to view the contents of a selected folder and preview the files in a bound object frame. Double-clicking the file on the left will open it in its default application. So you should have most of the code you need to start building yours, post back if you get stuck. If you have the 64 bit version let me know and I'll try to make the sample work with that.

Cheers,