Link Table Template

Function for Creating a Linked - Attached Table

Function for Creating a Linked - Attached Table in Microsoft Access

When working with relational data in Microsoft Access, establishing table links—especially to external sources—is a critical process. While Access offers built-in manual options for linking tables, advanced users and developers often need a more dynamic and programmatic method. A custom VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) function to create or refresh linked tables delivers the automation and control needed for efficient database management.

This type of functionality is particularly useful in split database environments where front-end Access applications connect to back-end data sources such as Access, SQL Server, or Excel. Using a VBA-driven method to create linked or attached tables allows for real-time link creation, automatic refreshes, and adaptive behavior based on database context—all without manual intervention.

Key Use Cases Include:

• Dynamic Table Linking: Automatically establish links to tables at runtime, based on user selection or connection requirements.
• Back-End Path Management: Modify linked table paths to accommodate relocated databases or shared networks.
• Automated Refreshing: Refresh links to external tables during startup or at designated intervals without manual re-linking.
• Multi-Source Integration: Seamlessly integrate Access with SQL Server, Excel, or other data platforms through VBA automation.

A custom function for creating linked tables ensures accuracy, reduces errors, and boosts the efficiency of your Access application. It’s especially beneficial for developers managing multiple client installations, dynamic environments, or high-volume data systems requiring consistent integration.

If you need expert assistance implementing this feature or developing advanced VBA automation for your Access database, Winning Solutions, Inc. (WSI) offers professional Microsoft Access development and consulting services.

📞 Contact Us today to learn how we can help you build custom table-linking functionality and unlock the full potential of your database system.

Function createAttached(strTable As String, strPath As String, strBaseTable As String) As Boolean '************************************************************************************ '* Create an attached table in the current database from a table in a different MDB, ACCDB file. '* In: * '* strTable - name of linked table to create * '* strPath - path and name of MDB, ACCDB file containing the table * '* strBaseTable - name of table in strPath MDB, ACCDB * '* Out: * '* Return value: True/False, indicating success * '* Modifies: * '* Nothing, but adds a new table. * '************************************************************************************ On Error GoTo CreateAttachedError Dim tdf As TableDef Dim strConnect As String Dim fRetval As Boolean Dim myDB As Database DoCmd.SetWarnings False Set myDB = CurrentDb Set tdf = myDB.CreateTableDef(strTable) With tdf .Connect = ";DATABASE=" & strPath .SourceTableName = strBaseTable End With myDB.TableDefs.Append tdf fRetval = True DoCmd.SetWarnings True CreateAttachedExit: createAttached = fRetval Exit Function CreateAttachedError: If Err = 3110 Then Resume CreateAttachedExit Else If Err = 3011 Then Resume Next End If End If End Function

Live Demonstration: To experience a more interactive and personalized demonstration of this WSI template, we invite you to contact WSI and schedule a live demonstration with one of our team members. This opportunity allows you to engage directly with us, either as an alternative to or in conjunction with downloading and exploring the demo version of the template at your leisure. Please note that downloading Microsoft Office files, including Microsoft Access database files, might trigger a security warning on your computer. To avoid this and get a comprehensive overview, you have the option of viewing the template through a virtual meeting on Teams or Zoom with a WSI representative.
Once you purchase the database template, you will receive the full version of the database in a standard Access Database file. The purchased database will have full access to the database window, all design objects, the visual basic project code, and you will be able to modify or add to the design in any way you wish (this does not apply to the run-time/compiled versions). If you lack the time to integrate this database into your system, please Contact Us and we will be glad to help with your integration process. If you like the basics of what you see in the database, but need enhancements to make the system functional for your business, please Contact Us and we will develop a quote for you to implement the additional features and enhancements that you require.

$19.99 - this allows you to use this database template however you wish within your organization.