Make my database stand alone

[Gina]

OK, I have my database working fine. Now how do I get it to run on
its own without starting up the Access program that I built it in. I
want to be able to have it running and usable on its own without all
the MS Access menus and toolbars hanging around.

 

[boblarson]

This is a very common misconception that you can do this. You can KIND of do
it by creating an MDE file and then having the user use the Access Runtime,
and unless you are packaging an Access 2007 database, for which the runtime
and developer extensions are available for free, you would have to own a copy
of the Developer Edition for your version.

If you truly want it to be a standalone program without using Access at all,
you would need to write the front-end in something like VB, VB.NET, C#, C++,
Java, etc.
--
Bob Larson
Access World Forums Super Moderator
Utter Access VIP
____________________________________
Access 2000, 2003, 2007, SQL Server 2000, Crystal Reports 10/XI, VB6
WinXP, Vista

 

[George Nicholson]

You'll need the Developer's tools that are appropriate for whatever version
of Access you are using.

An application developed in Access requires *some version* of Access be
installed on the user's machine. Microsoft provides a royalty-free "Runtime"
version of Access that Developers can distribute with applications that they
have written. For 2007, the runtime is a free download. Prior versions all
cost additional bucks, one way or the other (and, just to avoid confusion,
without proper ownership of the corresponding Developer's tools, it would be
illegal to distribute the Runtime files).

Here are some links that may prove useful, regardless of the version you are
using:

Microsoft Access (Office) Developer Edition FAQ
http://www.granite.ab.ca/access/developereditionfaq.htm

ACC2000: Differences Between Retail and Run-Time Microsoft Access (2000)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/q208730/

Basics for Building Microsoft Office Access 2003 Runtime-Based Solutions
http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa167800(office.11).aspx

HTH

 

[Larry Linson]

OK, I have my database working fine. Now how
do I get it to run on its own without starting up the
Access program that I built it in. I want to be able
to have it running and usable on its own without all
the MS Access menus and toolbars hanging around.

If you want to cover up both the Access menus / toolbars, and the Windows
system tray at the bottom of the screen, you can set each form to Modal and
Popup -- but, be aware that will irritate some users (I am one who would be
irritated -- I believe I should have control of my own desktop).

Larry Linson
Microsoft Access MVP

 

[Gramma's House]

OK, I have my database working fine. Now how do I get it to run on
its own without starting up the Access program that I built it in. I
want to be able to have it running and usable on its own without all
the MS Access menus and toolbars hanging around.

 

[Tom van Stiphout]

On Fri, 19 Oct 2007 21:57:21 -0400, "Gramma's House"

There is no easy way. Better check such important design issues out
before you get started.
You can distribute your application with the Runtime version of Access
(search for it on microsoft.com), so your users don't have to buy the
full version of Access.
You can also hide the Access main window behind your form, but this
requires advanced programming.

-Tom.