Mail Merge Error: Word was unable to open the data source

[weigoldk]

Office 2003 Pro with up to date service packs.

I have a very small Excel spreadsheet with names and addresses. I'm trying to merge that into Word labels. When I attempt to use the datasource (file is located on a network drive), I get the error "Word was unable to open the datasource".

If I copy the entire worksheet into a new file, I get the same error. When I copy just the cells that have data to a new sheet I can complete the merge.

I noticed that during the times that I get an error, I choose the datasource then I get another screen with the title "Select Table" (the table list is currently blank), workbook drop down box (with file names to choose from), Options, OK and Cancel. To be able to move to the next step, I have to click OPTIONS. I then see a Table Options box with ONLY Tables checked. I must check BOTH Tables and System Tables to see any tables listed in the box. I then navigate to my data file (again) and click on the table and finally OK. That is when I see the error.

If I copy just the few rows to a new file, I don't get this extra dialog box at all.

 

[bkpchs237]

weigoldk,

When you choose to select your data source, in the open dialog box, place a check in Select Method and try a different connection method (DDE, Worksheet Convert, ODBC, etc.) and see if that helps.

Also, you might try placing your data in the first worksheet and deleting any unnecessary worksheets within the file. Or using a named range for your data set.

Are you sure this individual has rights to that location?
If so, and the above doesn't work, what happens when you try another document? There may be corruption in this one.

Hope this helps.

 

[weigoldk]

Thanks for the suggestions bkpchs237

The problem comes before selecting the data source (or are you suggesting I start over and then try other menthods)?

I have a form and data source that worked just swell last month, but the data mysteriously becomes corrupt and I have to copy the rows to a new sheet.

I haven't tried using a named range--I'll soon sound like a broken record, but, it worked last month without it. And if I do name the range, I'll have to change that range if I add to the names and addresses--it's just an extra step I'd like to avoid.

I already have just one sheet in the workbook.

The user definately has rights--it's her home directory. She can delete, create, rename, etc.