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Handling Files with Low-Level File Handling

On occasion, you need to write data to or read data from a text file. This is often referred to as low-level file handling. Three types of file access exist: sequential, random, and binary. This text covers only sequential access. You use sequential access to read and write to a text file, such as an error log. You use the Open keyword to open a text file. You use the Input # keyword to read data. Likewise, you use the Write # keyword to write data. Finally, you use the Close keyword to close the file. The subroutine LogErrorText provides a practical example of why you may need to use this technique. It writes error information to a text file.

Understanding and Effectively Using Compilation Options

Microsoft Access gives you a few alternatives for compilation. Understanding them can help you to decide whether compilation speed or trapping compilation errors is more important to you.

Compile on Demand

By default, VBA compiles your code only when the code in the module changes or when a procedure in one module is called by another module. Although this default setting can dramatically speed the compilation process, it can leave you wondering whether you have a hidden time bomb lurking somewhere in your application.

Here's a typical scenario: You open a form, make some simple changes, save the changes, and close the form. You repeat this process for a few additional forms. You also open a couple of modules to make some equally simple changes. During the testing process, you forget to test one or more of the forms and one or more of the modules. With the Compile On Demand option set to True (its default value), you won't identify the errors until your users access the offending code!

To disable the Compile On Demand feature, choose Tools, Options from the VBE. Click the General tab and remove the check from Compile On Demand. You might notice some degradation in performance each time your code compiles, but this is time well spent.

This material orginally appeared in Alison Balter's book Mastering Microsoft Office Access 2007 Development. Reprinted here by author's permission.

When you need a Microsoft Access programmer for your Anaheim CA business, call MS Access Solutions at (323) 285-0939. We have over 25 years experience in Microsoft Access programmer solutions. We create Access database applications for all sectors, consisting of hospitals, government agencies, the U.S. military, universities, agriculture, workers services, and insurance provider. We can take care of the most advanced as well as complicated Access and also SQL Server database programming for your business as well as smaller projects, like fixing damaged Access database forms, MS Access reports, Access macros, and VBA code.