Cannnot edit data in (using a single field join in two files) query or form

[K Roger]

This is a simple question that probably has a simple answer but it is currently defying me.



I have two files in my database (one of them linked). One is an file (the original one) that is essentially the same as a newer one with some addition fields. The older file has more records, but fewer fields.
I want to recover some of the old data and replace it in the same named fields as the newer one.

I built a query with them joined on a single key field. However, I can not edit the data (in either file) using a "Select" Query. However, I can do edits in "Update" Mode.
More importantly I can display the data in a form (using the same query), but can not edit it.

In addition, as a side issue, if I attempt to delete a record in one of the joined files, using a "Delete" Query, does it delete both records (the joined one) and the one in the file that contains the record.

I built both the query and the form using the wizards and tried various join types - to no avail.

What settings do I need to check or change to make single record edits possible both in the query and the form.

Any help, suggestions, or insights would be greatly appreciated.

I realize this is probably a basic procedure- but it is alluding me both in my reference books and online

Thanks ahead of time for your time, knowledge and effort.

K Roger

[ranman256]

attached files cannot always allow edits/deletes. The odbc wont allow it.
import the data into access tables, THEN you can edit.

[NTC]

let's first clarify the terminology: "two files in my database" - - I believe you mean tables.

it is very common to create a query that is not update-able. You can look up lot's of Q/A on this topic but in general in order for a query to be updateable there must be a 1:1 between tables and joined on the primary key. A 1:Many is not going to allow editing on the 1 side.

there are a couple of ways to skin the cat depending on the structure of the data and depending on what really is your final goal. One way is to use a form/ sub form in order to display the linked data...which then is editable. but is your task is a 1 time replacement of data between tables you might accomplish this by setting up a query that writes to a new temp table....and then an update or append query that writes the temp info to the final table.... it all depends....