Linking to an External Database

[bsycamore]

Is it possible with Version 8 or even the new V9 software to link additional fields when linking to an external Database.

I have a database with Book details, like ISBN, author, etc and would like to link these rather than have to input them directly.

Is this possible?

[leehack]

I don't see why not, create variables to contain this information and see if these can then be seen on the mapping screen, if they are, then you can.

[bsycamore]

I tried that and it does show. However, when I link it and click ok to accept it all i get the following.

There was a problem with the database

Operation: Moving through the table

Too many fields defined.

[leehack]

Why only mention it now? Why hold any useful information back at all? You're wasting both of our times asking questions that can be answered with points that you already know. Give the full picture, help people to help you.

[bsycamore]

I meant I tried it after you posted your comment.

[leehack]

What have you done, created a variable per measure and then tried linking an external field to each of them (note i am trying to extract info again). I didn't watch you do it, so you have to paint the picture i'm afraid. The help within actinic sets up a few rules on these (the advanced part from memory), are you following all measures mentioned in there? Not on automatic product references, correct format per cells etc.

[bsycamore]

Thanks Lee.

I have done the following.

Created a Product Varialble - ISBN13
Name, Description & Prompt - ISBN13
Group - Product
Place of setting - Product
Type - Text
Allow Empty Value - Ticked
Searchable, Modifiable & Upload - Ticked.

The Database (Excel file) shows Product Ref, Short & Long Descrtiption and Price. The linking works fine until I try and link the newly created ISBN13 field.

[Mike Hughes]

This error is usually associated with using incompatible software versions. What Version of excel are you using?

Snippet from the help file:

Actinic Business/Designer can create and maintain an external link with the following data sources:

· A Microsoft Access table (versions 95, 97, 2000 and 2003)

· A Microsoft Excel workbook (versions 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 97, 2000 and 2003)

Mike

[bsycamore]

Its Excel 2003.

but.

Just imported the Sheet into Access and it now works. Bit odd. Maybe there is some formatting or something It can't handle in Excel.

Thanks for all the pointers.