Access to access

[ukmale65000]

Having tried unsuccessfully to develop a database, we have had one designed professionally, there are three parts to the database. There is a Front End database, a back-end database (password protected, for which we have the password) and a laccdb which opens when the fe database is opened. We have a need to simply add a field to a table, which is no problem as they are all stored in the be database, however the problem is we need to add to a form to allow data entry, this is where our problems arise. We cannot open the front end of the database there seems no way into it at all. We have tried holding down shift when we open it, nothing. We have looked at the option of opening it exclusively but cannot find that option anywhere and now we are stuck.


Ask the developer we hear you say, easier said than done as it was developed in the Philippines and we are unable to contact him by any means.
Can anyone help?

Thanks

[ukmale65000]

Just noticed the Front End is an ACCDE file and the back end an ACCDB file not sure if this makes a difference

[ItsMe]

What is the file extension on the front end file?

[ukmale65000]

What is the file extension on the front end file?

Its ACCDE on Front End and ACCDB on Back End

[ItsMe]

There is not access for an IDE to VBA modules in accde files.

There may be a way to get in but I don't know of any. If you were to compare the original accdb FE file to the accde file you would see a difference in file size. After publishing an accdb file as accde, the modules are removed.

How complex is the DB?

[ukmale65000]

Hi not sure how complex the database is are you saying without the originsl front end accdb file to be able to edit it were stuck ?

[ItsMe]

I do not know how to get the source code out of an accde file. You would need the accdb file, the one that has the VBA modules. You can look for the objects in your BE file. It is doubtful they are there. It is worth a look though.

[ukmale65000]

I do not know how to get the source code out of an accde file. You would need the accdb file, the one that has the VBA modules. You can look for the objects in your BE file. It is doubtful they are there. It is worth a look though.

All that is in the BE database is the Tables so looks like were stuck

[ItsMe]

You can look for hidden objects. In the BE file, after you open it, look at the navigation pane. You should see your tables there in the nav pane. At the top of the nav pane, right click. Then, "Navigation Options....". When the Navigation Options window is open, tick the "Show Hidden Objects" option. Close the options window. Look in your Navigation Pane. Select "All Access Objects" by using the pulldown in the Nav Pane.

[ukmale65000]

Did that and there are only tables

[ItsMe]

How complicated is the design? You could possibly have a second application run and update the specific field you are referring to. it is a crazy work around but....

[ssanfu]

ACCDB to ACCDE is a one way operation.
When you hired someone to create a database for you , you should have a copy of the FE in ACCDB format. (The laccdb is a locking file Access creates and deletes every time the dB is opened and closed.)

When you create an ACCDE from an ACCDB, the VBA, forms, queries and reports are compiled (converted to object code) and the runtime files are added. After the ACCDE is created, the dB FE can be opened (executed) on a computer that does not have the full version of Access installed.

You can not open an ACCDE for design changes any more that you could open "Firefox.exe" for design changes. If you want/need to change your FE design, you need the ACCDB copy of your file.

You might contact "Everything Access" at http://www.everythingaccess.com/
They have a service "MDE to MDB Conversion Service (and ACCDE to ACCDB)" that might help..... cost depends on database.
http://www.everythingaccess.com/mdeconversion.htm