PHS CyberSchool

Computer Studies SG 

Maintaining Hardware Database - Improvements to the subform 

Using the subform has proved tricky and some improvements are required.   The Serial Number with the Primary key needs to be put at the beginning.  The users want a quicker way of adding repetitive data such as Operating Systems.  A better way of adding the date is needed as the users are never sure how to enter the date on the maintenance form  and it must be a requirement that the maintenance person sign the form  Also the form does not look 'good'.  

Open the database Hardware Maintenance made in  Maintaining hardware - Simple subform.  To solve the problem first delete the two forms already made as they are no longer needed.

1. In design view open the Hardware table.  
2. Drag the Serial Number to the beginning. 
3. To make adding repetative data easier open the Hardware table in design view.  (Use the tip sheet for assistance.)  
   1. Change the data type of Operating System to Lookup field.  

2. You can either use a previously made table of all the possible operating systems or type in your own.  In the example we will add our own. 

3. Click Next.

4. Add your own words.  Or you can add words via the Lookup tab, and by adding words in the Row Source.

5. Make similar lists for the Location, Hard Drive and RAM.

6. Open the Maintenance table.  
   1. To make entering a date easier in design view change the format of the Date field to Medium Date
   2. To make a signature for any maintenance done essential, in design view make the Sign field a Required field.
   3. Save and close the table.

2. Create a form of the Hardware table.  

1. Plan the layout in an attractive way. 
2. Make the labels clear and attractive.

3. Create a form of the Maintenance table using the wizard.  

1. Use the datasheet layout.
2. Be sure to have it wide enough.

4. In design view add a subform of the Maintenance to the Hardware table.  Adjust it so that it looks good.
5. Print JUST the form of the 2nd record.
6. Personalising the database  (Use the tip sheet for assistance.)
   1. Add the name Hardware Maintenance in the area Application Title and a pretty suitable logo as the Application icon..

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