id numbers expand

[Robyn]

i am looking at an access 97 database when originally set
up was set to 6 digits for the id number. i now need more
digits...any suggestions? too big to begin again.
thank you in advance for any sugggestions. I know some
access but please not too technical.

 

[Adrian Jansen]

First thing to do is make a copy of the database, and work on the copy, in
case something goes wrong.

It depends how and where the ID numbers are limited in length.
Look first in the table design view holding the ID number. If the field is
text ( unlikely, but possible ), then set the number of characters to more
than 6.
If the field is a number, set it to Long Integer, this will allow at least
2,000,000,000 numbers.

Also delete any possible format setting stopping more than 6 digit display.

It is also possible that the display format is set in some forms where the
ID number is displayed. Go into design view and check the format property
of any text boxes where the ID is displayed. Adjust if necessary.

When you are satisfied that the changes dont upset things, you can file the
old copy of the database, and continue using the new one.

--
Regards,

Adrian Jansen
J & K MicroSystems
Microcomputer solutions for industrial control