Access 2016 won't open databases

Question

When I first try to open my Access databases in 2016 I get: Cannot open a database created with a previous version of your application. But here's the thing, I've converted all my database and if I do this:

1.  Press Ctrl-G as soon as Access starts which will bring you to the Visual Basic editor.

2.  Type --> <g class="gr_ gr_205 gr-alert gr_spell gr_run_anim gr_inline_cards ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" data-gr-id="205" id="205" style="color:#2a2a2a;font-family:'Segoe UI', sans-serif;font-size:10.5pt;">docmd</g>.RunCommand acCmdWorkgroupAdministrator

3.  Then specify the default MDW which is located <g class="gr_ gr_207 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_run_anim gr_inline_cards Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="207" id="207">at:</g>  C:\Users\<YOUR NAME>\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Access\System.mdw<o:p></o:p>

I can then open all my databases. The thing is I don't want to have to do this every time nor do I want my users doing this. 

Does anyone know how to fix this?

Thanks.



Answer 1

Hi,

I didn't realize Access 2016 still can read ULS databases. I thought it was taken out already. Regardless, the best practice approach for ULS configuration is to open the database using a shortcut with a switch to indicate the correct MDW file.

Just my 2 cents...

Answer 2

What about creating a function that inputs those commands and call it from an AutoExec macro so it executes at the startup of your db.

 

That all said, I'd high urge you to create a blank accdb and export everything into it to migrate away from the old mdb and uls.  After 11 years it truly is time to upgrade and eliminate the use of uls.

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Daniel Pineault, 2010-2016 Microsoft MVP
Professional Support: http://www.cardaconsultants.com
MS Access Tips and Code Samples: http://www.devhut.net

Answer 3

Hi Ks1Sunflower,

you can only try to open it using command line arguments.

"C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office14\MSACCESS.EXE" "C:\__tmp\demo.mdb" /WRKGRP "C:\__tmp\Security.mdw"

currently only this option is available to open .mdw file.

as Daniel  Pineault you can try to export all things from old to new file format.

if it gives you an error then you can first try to install the older version of access that allow you to convert this file format.

then you can try to open that file in newer version of Access and again export the data to the latest file format.

we don't have any other option for this issue.

I try to refer the Access 2016 documentation but there is no details available for mdw file format.

also want to suggest you that try work with newer version of Access.

as support for older version was already ended.

till Access 2003 , support for all previous versions was ended.

Regards

Deepak

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Answer 4

I deleted my profile under C:\Users and then restarted my computer. Once I opened Access a new system.mdw was created and the problem was solved. Thanks everyone for your suggestions.

Answer 5

Hi Ks1Sunflower,

from your last post, I can see that your issue is solved now.

I suggest you to mark your last post as an answer.

so that we can close this thread.

without marking an answer we are not able to close this thread and thread will remain open.

Regards

Deepak 

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MSDN Community Support
Please remember to click "Mark as Answer" the responses that resolved your issue, and to click "Unmark as Answer" if not. This can be beneficial to other community members reading this thread. If you have any compliments or complaints to MSDN Support, feel free to contact [e-mail].