Cannot mail merge with excel data source

[DaveR]

I am trying to mail merge an Excel database (xls entension) into a Publisher
2003 document. I use the wizard and when it comes to choosing the data
source, I select "Use an existing list" and then I drill down to the Excel
file. But when I try to open it I get a screen asking for "Data Link
Properties".
I don't have the option of chossing an xls format so when I click on OK or
Cancel I get "This operation cannot be completed because of dialog or
database engine failures"
I have run the MDAC system checker and I am running version 2.8 sp1.
I also did a repair reinstall of the entire Office Suite.

Can anyone help me with a suggestion as to what to do next. Thanking you in
advance.



None of these things work. I have pics of the error messages, if required

 

[Mary Sauer]

I know yours is an Excel problem, but this article might help anyway.

You receive a "The operation cannot be completed because of dialog or data base
engine failures" error message when you try to perform a mail merge by using an
Outlook 2003 contact folder in Publisher 2003
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/908474/en-us

 

[DaveR]

Thanks Mary but unfortunately I have already tried those things. The OS is XP
Pro with SP2 installed, as well as the 75 or so new updates beyond SP2.
I also ran the MDAC component checker and there is MDAC 2.8 SP1 installed.
I also tried an sfc /scannow, to see if any system files were corrupted.
I read your posts to others regarding their similar problems and tried all
of that before posting.
Have you any other suggestions? It is really baffling why it will not work.

What about this box "Data Link Properties". Have you seen this before and
what do you think would be the proper configuration to apply to that?

Dave

 

[Mary Sauer]

I simply don't know how to help. You might want to ask in an Excel newsgroup.

This article addresses Publisher 2002 and "read only" files.
You receive a "Microsoft Data Link Error" error message when you try to perform
mail merge from read-only data source in Publisher 2002
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/279364/en-us

Is your Jet components up to date or corrupt?
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/results.aspx?pocId=&freetext=jet&DisplayLang=en