Adding External files to an Access database record.

[FLGuy]

I have a very simple database (access 2002) at work. This database is used to
track support calls from customers. It currently tracks customer information
and problem and resolutions. I have been asked to add the capability to
attach a file to a support record. Example we may receive a configuration
file from a customer and they want to be able to add that file to the support
record created in the database. I have disk space on the server to keep the
files and they will be named with the ticket number created for that issue.
The files could be of various formats. What is the best way to go about this
task?

 

[John W. Vinson/MVP]

I have a very simple database (access 2002) at work. This database is used
to
track support calls from customers. It currently tracks customer
information
and problem and resolutions. I have been asked to add the capability to
attach a file to a support record. Example we may receive a configuration
file from a customer and they want to be able to add that file to the
support
record created in the database. I have disk space on the server to keep
the
files and they will be named with the ticket number created for that
issue.
The files could be of various formats. What is the best way to go about
this
task?

I'd suggest using either a text field or a Hyperlink field in your table;
store the files in a dedicated folder and store the path and filename in the
table field.

 

[Daniel Pineault]

Whether it be files, images, or anything else you should simply save the
path/filename in a text field in your table. You DO NOT want to actually
save/embed the files within your database as it will lead to database
bloating...

It is actually very simple to implement. You'll need to integrate the file
dialog

http://www.mvps.org/access/api/api0001.htm

and use it to allow your users to select the file or files to add then
simply pass the select file value to your form's control.

You can look at several examples to learn from

http://www.devhut.net/index.php?lang=en&id=0000000007#images
http://www.devhut.net/index.php?lang=en&id=0000000007#albu
http://www.rogersaccesslibrary.com/Otherdownload.asp?SampleName='ImageManager.mdb'

Also, if you search this forum for the term images, you'll find lots more
information and examples to learn from.
--
Hope this helps,

Daniel Pineault
http://www.cardaconsultants.com/
For Access Tips and Examples: http://www.devhut.net
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