creating a field to link to a file on the hard drive

[thefrstgatsby]

How to I go about creating a field (which type do I use) that when used in a form can attach a file to the database (preferably by linking to a file on the harddrive), which can then be later retrieved using another form in the database?

 

[CajunCenturion]

Could you use a text field which contains the full pathname to the attached file?

Good Luck
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[thefrstgatsby]

But then how would I create a button on a form to read that path and open the file. In addition it there would have to be a button that would open a window which would allow the user to browse to the file they wish to attach, and select it.

 

[CajunCenturion]

Both of these functions are easily doable. Although you may not necessarily need to have a button to open and read the file, as for example, you can place the pathname in the .Caption property of a label, and use the Label's click event to open and read the file.

Good Luck
--------------
To get the most from your Tek-Tips experience, please read FAQ181-2886
As a circle of light increases so does the circumference of darkness around it. - Albert Einstein

 

[thefrstgatsby]

What is the field type, because the user is fairly computer illiterate, There has to be a browse function so that they can graphically select the path to the file that they want to attach.

 

[CajunCenturion]

A Text field.

Good Luck
--------------
To get the most from your Tek-Tips experience, please read FAQ181-2886
As a circle of light increases so does the circumference of darkness around it. - Albert Einstein

 

[thefrstgatsby]

Okay, I actually looked into the fields, and in the help it recommends that I use an OLE object as the field type. how do I add a form control that allows the user to link an excel file, or any file to a particular record?

 

[BSando]

Create a text field.

In the form select the properties of the field. At the very bottom of the all Tab select : IS Hyperlink, change to yes

this should help.

Some people make things happen, some watch while things happen, and some wonder 'What happened?'

 

[shwin]

Hi thefrstgatsby ,

I am trying to do the same thing as you are. I have been searching around and have found two sample databases which are really good. I am trying to put a browse button which would allow users to select their document. When they select their document/file, it would put a hyperlink in a listbox (I want them to be able to store multiple files). Anyways, I was able to find these examples but I am not able to duplicate it to fit my needs. Since I think we are trying to do the same thing, I wanted to send these your way in case they might do you some good. If you have figured out the issue, I would greatly appreciate any assistance. Thanks!

http://www.access-programmers.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=66195

http://www.access-programmers.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=62253

 

[thefrstgatsby]

Thanks shwin, sorry for the serious delay, I'm looking into those now... did you find anything yet?