Linking Images

[sharkey_lsu]

I have a question about linking images to my database. I will start with a little background info. I am creating a plant database for my company that will basically provide a library of different plants and how/when/where etc we use the plants. Some things that I want to add to each record are images of the different characteristics of each plant. I also want to link them so that the images can be stored on the server and be viewed by everyone but not make the database too large (file size).

So far the only method that I have found is to link the images as OLE objects which would be fine but I want the process to be simpler because the database is intended to be user editable so that employees can add new entries and contribute to the building of the database. The process to attach an image through the form (data type is attachment instead of OLE in my table) is very simple and perfect for employees that are not experts at Access and simply follow the pop-up dialog when they click on the blank image through the form. I do not understand why there is not a way to use that interface to attach images but link them instead of attaching them.

If someone could please make a recommendation as to the best way to accomplish these needs, I would truly appreciate it.

In short my needs are:

1. link images to the database (reduce file size)
2. have the images be visible on forms and reports (not just a link)


3. be easily added by users with little to no Access experience.

Thanks for any advice in advance!

[June7]

1. store image file path\name in text field

2. Use Image control. Set ControlSource property to image file path. The full path or just image name can be stored in text fiield. The ControlSource can be an expression that constructs the full path. So if all images are saved in same folder on the server, something like:

="\\servername\folderpath\" & [image name field] & ".jpg"

3. can be a bit complicated depending on approach.