"Error:Unable to open Access database" when attempting to compare databases

Question

I am attempting to use the Microsoft Database Compare utility to compare the designs of two databases (I believe that they are identical, but not absolutely sure). Each time that I attempt to use the utility I receive the error "Error:Unable to open Access database". I am then prompted to supply a password, but the databases are not password protected. This happens regardless of what database I use. All of these databases open and function normally when opened directly in Access.

Any ideas?

Answer 1

When I just tried it, the application actually crashed. 

Do you perhaps have a password on the VBA project (rather than a database password)?

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-Tom. Microsoft Access MVP

Answer 2

Nope. No passwords on anything.

Answer 3

Hello SlimJimPoisson,

If you create a new database file with some simple data and copy it, and then what's the result of comparing the newly created database and its copied database?

If you still get the error, I would suggest you repair your office and then try the test again.

If you do not get the error, I think the issue is more related to the specific database file.

I would suggest back up your database file(important), and then select report options in the compare tool one by one to check if tables or queries or macros... caused this error. Once you make sure which part caused this error, delete the object in it one by one until you does not get the error.

If so, the latest deleted object should be the reason of the issue. Check its design.

Best Regards,

Terry

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