Official versus unofficial parameter

[Rajat]

Hi,

What is the functional difference between using:

1. a field name in the criteria row of the query grid that
Access does not recognize and therefore throws up as a
parameter

AND

2. creating an official parameter by entering the
unrecognizable field name in Query > Parameters...

In one case, Access seems to be able to filter on it and
in other case it doesn't.

Thanks!

Regards,
Rajat

 

[Allen Browne]

The difference is that declaring the parameter gives you the chance to
define the data type.

For example, if you define EndDate as a Date/Time type parameter, Access
knows it's a date, and does not try to treat it as text. Even if you enter
something stupid such as:
13/13/2003
Access refuses to accept the value.

 

[Rajat]

Allen, thanks!
How is the Access skills-market in Australia?
IT has been hit pretty badly here in the US.
Cheers,
Rajat