What is the Input Mask Wizard in Microsoft Access?

The Input Mask Wizard is a feature of Microsoft Access that helps you create an input mask.

An input mask allows you to specify exactly how data should be entered into the database. It’s an expression that specifies certain rules about how the data should be formatted as it is entered into the system.

Here’s an example of an input mask:

(999) 000-0000

This specifies the format that a phone number must be entered. The number 9 indicates an optional character. The number 0 specifies a mandatory one. So in this example, the area code is optional.

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A Technical Comparison: Microsoft Access 2016 vs SQL Server 2016

Microsoft Access and SQL Server are two relational database management systems from Microsoft. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. There are many cases where Access is the ideal tool for the job. There are other times where a more sophisticated solution like SQL Server is more appropriate.

When trying to decide which one to use, a side-by-side comparison of the technical specifications of each system can help greatly. Below is a side-by-side comparison of some of the technical limitations of each system.

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What is Microsoft Access?

Microsoft Access is a relational database management system (RDBMS) developed by Microsoft. It’s part of the Microsoft Office suite, included in the Professional and higher editions or sold separately.

Microsoft Access provides a quick and easy way to develop databases and is particularly well suited for individuals and small business. Access is the most popular desktop database on the market.

Screenshot of the Access welcome screen
The Microsoft Access welcome screen allows you to create a database from scratch. You can also search through thousands of templates for a prebuilt database that you can use to get started.

In Access, most tasks can be performed via the graphical user interface (GUI), but more advanced users can also develop applications using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) code. Advanced users can also use SQL code to write or modify queries.

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How to Create a Query in Access

To create a query in Access 2013 or 2016:

  1. Click the CREATE > Query Design button on the Ribbon.
  2. Choose the tables to include in the query
  3. Choose the fields to include, and adjust the criteria
  4. Click the Run button (or just switch to Datasheet view)

The results of the query will be displayed.

You also have the option of saving your query. To save the query, right-click on the query tab. click Save, and name it at the prompt.

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