Create Linked Read-Only File

[kazaccess]

Let's say I have a database saved in Folder 1. Is there a way for me to create a read-only copy of that database in Folder 2 so that it can be up-to-date with the changes made in the Folder 1 database?



I am running Windows 7. I know this is probably not totally an Access-related question, but I have not been able to find an answer elsewhere.

[ssanfu]

You could use the shell command to execute a batch file to copy the dB from Folder 1 to Folder 2. Then code could link the FE to the dB in folder 2.

BUT....
The problem here is how to ensure that the dB (BE) in Folder 1 is not being accessed when copying the dB. Since Access is a file based dB, copying the BE while a user has it open could cause the copy process to 1) fail or 2) corrupt the BE (either or both).

You could manually copy the BE into Folder 2 when you know no one is accessing the BE.

Is this for back up purposes?

[orange]

It might be easier to respond if you gave some real constraints / conditions surrounding your question.

If you have a database in Folder1 and it is being updated in realtime/online users; then you can not copy it as readonly and have all ongoing changes.

The closest you may have is to say at the end of Business yesterday you made a readonly database available in Folder2. It would be accurate as of last night, but would not have any of today's updates from the online users (Folder1 database). You could repeat this process at the end of business each day.

Details of your requirements will help readers.

[kazaccess]

One thing the database does is track attendance of students in a study group (via a report). The people in charge of creating those groups have full access to the database, but they would also like to give a read-only copy to the receptionist so that she can access that report to keep attendance on her own.

If there is an easier way to do this, then I am completely open to it. I just know that they specifically want the receptionist to have a read-only version.

[orange]

Why don't they give a ReadOnly front end to the receptionist --they could give her the "standard" front end, and because of his/her credentials limit him/her to a few reports or whatever is needed.

Do not make another source of the info that is not in sync with the original. That would defeat the purpose of the database.

[ssanfu]

I second what orange said.

Just curious,

so that she can access that report to keep attendance on her own

If her copy is read-only, how will she keep attendance??

[orange]

Hi Steve - we've been in south Florida for 5 weeks. 78-89F is better than -35C.

[ssanfu]

You don't have to rub it in!!!
My heat went out.... anywhere is better than here right now. Except maybe the east coast

Looking for a house guest for the next 3 months?????? Hahahahahahaha

You don't have to be crazy to live here, but it sure helps.

[kazaccess]

Sorry, they are able to print off pages of the report and use a pen to mark attendance. I know the system is just awful but the people I'm working with are looking for a pretty fast fix and don't have much time to wait for updates - otherwise I would redo their whole system.

[orange]

Can they give her a copy of the front end? Then she'd have access to the latest, current data.

What is the purpose of an Access data base if you ae depending on a secretary to take a printed report and mark it up with a pen??
Perhaps our definition of FIX are totally different.

[ItsMe]

Even if you create a copy of the BE you are still going to have to create a read only FE. If the receptionist is within 300 feet of the server, build an FE and link the tables.