MetalworkingFun Forum

I inherited most of my father's tools a few years back (he was a career mechanic) and I wanted to ensure I had a comprehensive list, primarily for insurance. Initially I used Excel and entered all the tools but then decided I wanted something more usable.

So over the past couple of years I have slowly been working on an Access database, which allows up to 2 photographs to be displayed with each item, as well as several documents (user manual, exploded diagrams etc). It has taken a long time to develop and I have had to get a help from others on an Access forum but it is now running pretty well. I haven't designed any reports yet but there is a really nice search function.

I have decided to make it available (and have done so on another forum) and you can download it HERE. The database is split (into a front end and rear end), meaning that the data is stored separate to the user interface. This has two advantages: first, it facilitates updating of the user interface, without the risk of losing data. Second, in enables the rear end to be located on a network, with multiple user interfaces being able to simultaneously accessing the data. I have written a basic user guide, which I hope will be helpful. It has pictures (I know how you like pictures)!

Thanks Mayhem that is very useful

DaveH

Thanks Darren. That will be very useful for a lot of us.

Ed

You bet that will help both in case of theft also for the xyl in case of my passing, I would hate to see her sell everything off at giveaway pricing because she did not have an idea of the value. The only member of my family that would help her sell it off would probably buy it himself for less than 10 cents on the dollar and even at auction she would at least have an idea what things should bring. tom

Tom - this is one of the reasons I decided to share it. It actually didn't occur to me that anyone else would be interested in it until I read a post elsewhere that a number of people were concerned that their wives or children would be burdened, or ripped off should they inherit their tools and equipment. I was actually surprised to see it has been the most downloaded file on that particular site.

Hey Darren,

Does this only work with Microsoft Access??
I have Office 2010 and do not see Access anywhere...
Maybe i am missing something?

Andrew

Hi Andrew. Yes the database runs in Access. Do you have the Office 2010 installation disc? If so put it in your computer and see if you can install it from there. It may not have been installed the first time around. Also, it was possible to purchase Office without Access installed. I know some institutions do this and only purchase Access for those who need it.

So, who has had a play? What do you think? Did it work? Did it do what you expected? All comments welcome.

I haven't

I am waiting for my dear Son to come and put Access on for me - he has the disc. Well they are his anyway.

DaveH

(03-11-2012, 09:14 AM)Mayhem Wrote: [ -> ]So, who has had a play? What do you think? Did it work? Did it do what you expected? All comments welcome.

Not yet but I'll give it a try today.

Ed