Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access Len 10/11/2008 3:22:00 AM I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access installed. I am getting the mesage: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and machines. The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 and Access 2002. As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to do to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the proper letters to the proper paresnt? I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a solution. Thanks in Advance! Len I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am miss-understanding them or they do not work.

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access "Graham Mayor" <gmayor[ at ]REMOVETHISmvps.org> 10/11/2008 6:24:54 AM DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different versions of the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE as the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer his knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions at open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail merge main document, you will be given the option of using alternative methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for you. -- <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> Graham Mayor - Word MVP My web site www.gmayor.com Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> Len wrote: [Quoted Text] > I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every > computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access > installed. > > I am getting the mesage: > > Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access > > When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and machines. > > The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 and > Access 2002. > > As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. > This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to do > to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the proper > letters to the proper paresnt? > > I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a > solution. > > Thanks in Advance! > > Len > > I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am > miss-understanding them or they do not work.

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce Len 10/11/2008 12:10:00 PM Graham; Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The problem with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from the English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With limited funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational resources we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS Access, but hate them in MS Word. Thanks Again Len "Graham Mayor" wrote: [Quoted Text] > DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different versions of the > software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE as the default > connection method. Peter may be along later to offer his knowledge on the > subject but you could in the meantime try > > From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the General tab > and check the box against the "Confirm conversions at open" item. Then when > you attach the data source to the mail merge main document, you will be > given the option of using alternative methods of connection. See if one of > the alternatives works for you. > > -- > <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > Graham Mayor - Word MVP > > My web site www.gmayor.com > Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > > Len wrote: > > I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every > > computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access > > installed. > > > > I am getting the mesage: > > > > Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access > > > > When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and machines. > > > > The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 and > > Access 2002. > > > > As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. > > This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to do > > to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the proper > > letters to the proper paresnt? > > > > I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a > > solution. > > > > Thanks in Advance! > > > > Len > > > > I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am > > miss-understanding them or they do not work. > > >

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce "Graham Mayor" <gmayor[ at ]REMOVETHISmvps.org> 10/11/2008 1:48:39 PM You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the topic of DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in future to address such matters. I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use up to date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a worrying indictment of your country's education system :( -- <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> Graham Mayor - Word MVP My web site www.gmayor.com Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> Len wrote: [Quoted Text] > Graham; > > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The problem > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from the > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With limited > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational resources > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS Access, > but hate them in MS Word. > > Thanks Again > > Len > > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different versions of >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE as >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer his >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try >> >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions at >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail merge >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for you. >> >> -- >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> >> Len wrote: >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access >>> installed. >>> >>> I am getting the mesage: >>> >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access >>> >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and machines. >>> >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 and >>> Access 2002. >>> >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to do >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the proper >>> letters to the proper paresnt? >>> >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a >>> solution. >>> >>> Thanks in Advance! >>> >>> Len >>> >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work.

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce Len 10/11/2008 2:29:00 PM Graham; There were three other recomendations and one of them worked on a school that has MSWord 2002 and MS Access 2003. What I am wondering is if MS Word 2003 will work with MS Access 2002. I am not an English teacher, so I cannot comment on why they feel the way they do. Thanks Again Hope you have a great Weekend Len "Graham Mayor" wrote: [Quoted Text] > You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the topic of > DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in future to > address such matters. > > I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use up to > date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a worrying > indictment of your country's education system :( > > -- > <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > Graham Mayor - Word MVP > > My web site www.gmayor.com > Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > > > Len wrote: > > Graham; > > > > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The problem > > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the > > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from the > > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With limited > > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational resources > > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS Access, > > but hate them in MS Word. > > > > Thanks Again > > > > Len > > > > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > > > >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different versions of > >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE as > >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer his > >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try > >> > >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the > >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions at > >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail merge > >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative > >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for you. > >> > >> -- > >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > >> > >> My web site www.gmayor.com > >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> > >> > >> Len wrote: > >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every > >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access > >>> installed. > >>> > >>> I am getting the mesage: > >>> > >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access > >>> > >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and machines. > >>> > >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 and > >>> Access 2002. > >>> > >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. > >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to do > >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the proper > >>> letters to the proper paresnt? > >>> > >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a > >>> solution. > >>> > >>> Thanks in Advance! > >>> > >>> Len > >>> > >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am > >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. > > >

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce Len 10/11/2008 2:37:01 PM Graham; I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS Word 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS Word 2000 and MS Access 2002. I know very little about MS Word and that is also a handicap. Application programmers do VB and SQL. I would like to load all of them, but in our country everyone is so scared about litgious fines as a result of licsensing agreements. Thanks Again Len "Graham Mayor" wrote: [Quoted Text] > You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the topic of > DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in future to > address such matters. > > I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use up to > date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a worrying > indictment of your country's education system :( > > -- > <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > Graham Mayor - Word MVP > > My web site www.gmayor.com > Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > > > Len wrote: > > Graham; > > > > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The problem > > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the > > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from the > > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With limited > > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational resources > > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS Access, > > but hate them in MS Word. > > > > Thanks Again > > > > Len > > > > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > > > >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different versions of > >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE as > >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer his > >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try > >> > >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the > >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions at > >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail merge > >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative > >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for you. > >> > >> -- > >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > >> > >> My web site www.gmayor.com > >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> > >> > >> Len wrote: > >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every > >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access > >>> installed. > >>> > >>> I am getting the mesage: > >>> > >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access > >>> > >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and machines. > >>> > >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 and > >>> Access 2002. > >>> > >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. > >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to do > >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the proper > >>> letters to the proper paresnt? > >>> > >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a > >>> solution. > >>> > >>> Thanks in Advance! > >>> > >>> Len > >>> > >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am > >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. > > >

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce Leona Leal Educator 10/12/2008 11:55:01 AM Len; This is Granny Leona and I am having the exact same problem that you are having except that ours have gone to the Ivy League. I have been advised to try Word 97 with Access 2007, before I go through all this trouble (my English teachers love Word 97) do you know if this works? I will have to but the items I need out of my pocket. I am sure you understand. God Bless Granny Leona "Len" wrote: [Quoted Text] > Graham; > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS Word > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS Word 2000 > and MS Access 2002. > > I know very little about MS Word and that is also a handicap. > Application programmers do VB and SQL. > > I would like to load all of them, but in our country everyone is > so scared about litgious fines as a result of licsensing agreements. > > Thanks Again > > Len > > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > > > You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the topic of > > DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in future to > > address such matters. > > > > I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use up to > > date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a worrying > > indictment of your country's education system :( > > > > -- > > <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > Graham Mayor - Word MVP > > > > My web site www.gmayor.com > > Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > > <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > > > > > > > Len wrote: > > > Graham; > > > > > > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The problem > > > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the > > > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from the > > > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With limited > > > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational resources > > > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS Access, > > > but hate them in MS Word. > > > > > > Thanks Again > > > > > > Len > > > > > > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > > > > > >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different versions of > > >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE as > > >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer his > > >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try > > >> > > >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the > > >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions at > > >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail merge > > >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative > > >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for you. > > >> > > >> -- > > >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > > >> > > >> My web site www.gmayor.com > > >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > > >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > >> > > >> > > >> Len wrote: > > >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every > > >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access > > >>> installed. > > >>> > > >>> I am getting the mesage: > > >>> > > >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access > > >>> > > >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and machines. > > >>> > > >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 and > > >>> Access 2002. > > >>> > > >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. > > >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to do > > >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the proper > > >>> letters to the proper paresnt? > > >>> > > >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a > > >>> solution. > > >>> > > >>> Thanks in Advance! > > >>> > > >>> Len > > >>> > > >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am > > >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. > > > > > >

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce "Peter Jamieson" <pjj[ at ]KillmapSpjjnet.demon.co.uk> 10/12/2008 2:36:22 PM Which particular method worked? The first thing I would look for in any Word/Access connection using DDE is to ensure that no dialog boxes are popping up behind Word so that users cannot see them and dismiss them. FWIW I do not usually mix-and-match versions of Word and Access here, but another thing I would check if someone is doing that is that the version of MSACCESS that you need to start is actually in the Windows PATH. If it isn't, I suspect DDE will not be able ot find Access and start it. Peter Jamieson "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message news:4DD6EFDE-2E71-4602-8EA4-B0EFFA79C2A3[ at ]microsoft.com... [Quoted Text] > Graham; > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS Word > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS Word > 2000 > and MS Access 2002. > > I know very little about MS Word and that is also a handicap. > Application programmers do VB and SQL. > > I would like to load all of them, but in our country everyone is > so scared about litgious fines as a result of licsensing agreements. > > Thanks Again > > Len > > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > >> You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the topic >> of >> DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in future >> to >> address such matters. >> >> I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use up to >> date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a >> worrying >> indictment of your country's education system :( >> >> -- >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> >> >> Len wrote: >> > Graham; >> > >> > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The problem >> > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the >> > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from the >> > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With limited >> > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational resources >> > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS Access, >> > but hate them in MS Word. >> > >> > Thanks Again >> > >> > Len >> > >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: >> > >> >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different versions of >> >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE as >> >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer his >> >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try >> >> >> >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the >> >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions at >> >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail merge >> >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative >> >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for you. >> >> >> >> -- >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP >> >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> >> >> >> >> Len wrote: >> >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every >> >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access >> >>> installed. >> >>> >> >>> I am getting the mesage: >> >>> >> >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access >> >>> >> >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and machines. >> >>> >> >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 and >> >>> Access 2002. >> >>> >> >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. >> >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to do >> >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the proper >> >>> letters to the proper paresnt? >> >>> >> >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a >> >>> solution. >> >>> >> >>> Thanks in Advance! >> >>> >> >>> Len >> >>> >> >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am >> >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. >> >> >>

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce Len 10/12/2008 6:59:00 PM Peter; Thanks for getting back to us. How do I find out if it is in the Windows Path? Thanks Len "Peter Jamieson" wrote: [Quoted Text] > Which particular method worked? > > The first thing I would look for in any Word/Access connection using DDE is > to ensure that no dialog boxes are popping up behind Word so that users > cannot see them and dismiss them. > > FWIW I do not usually mix-and-match versions of Word and Access here, but > another thing I would check if someone is doing that is that the version of > MSACCESS that you need to start is actually in the Windows PATH. If it > isn't, I suspect DDE will not be able ot find Access and start it. > > Peter Jamieson > > > "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message > news:4DD6EFDE-2E71-4602-8EA4-B0EFFA79C2A3[ at ]microsoft.com... > > Graham; > > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS Word > > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS Word > > 2000 > > and MS Access 2002. > > > > I know very little about MS Word and that is also a handicap. > > Application programmers do VB and SQL. > > > > I would like to load all of them, but in our country everyone is > > so scared about litgious fines as a result of licsensing agreements. > > > > Thanks Again > > > > Len > > > > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > > > >> You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the topic > >> of > >> DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in future > >> to > >> address such matters. > >> > >> I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use up to > >> date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a > >> worrying > >> indictment of your country's education system :( > >> > >> -- > >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > >> > >> My web site www.gmayor.com > >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> > >> > >> > >> Len wrote: > >> > Graham; > >> > > >> > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The problem > >> > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the > >> > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from the > >> > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With limited > >> > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational resources > >> > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS Access, > >> > but hate them in MS Word. > >> > > >> > Thanks Again > >> > > >> > Len > >> > > >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > >> > > >> >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different versions of > >> >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE as > >> >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer his > >> >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try > >> >> > >> >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the > >> >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions at > >> >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail merge > >> >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative > >> >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for you. > >> >> > >> >> -- > >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > >> >> > >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com > >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> >> > >> >> > >> >> Len wrote: > >> >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every > >> >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access > >> >>> installed. > >> >>> > >> >>> I am getting the mesage: > >> >>> > >> >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access > >> >>> > >> >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and machines. > >> >>> > >> >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 and > >> >>> Access 2002. > >> >>> > >> >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. > >> >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to do > >> >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the proper > >> >>> letters to the proper paresnt? > >> >>> > >> >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a > >> >>> solution. > >> >>> > >> >>> Thanks in Advance! > >> >>> > >> >>> Len > >> >>> > >> >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am > >> >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. > >> > >> > >> >

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce "Peter Jamieson" <pjj[ at ]KillmapSpjjnet.demon.co.uk> 10/12/2008 10:05:28 PM 1. Which particular method worked? 2. Which version of Windows are you using on the workstations (i.e. not on the SBS server?) 3. To find out whether access is on the PATH you would need to know the fully qualified path name of the specific version of Access that Word needs to open. The file name will probably be MSACCESS.EXE. You may be able to find the full path name from e.g. an icon on the desktop. You can find out which folders are in the PATH either by opening a command windows (old-style "DOS box" and typing PATH, then enter. Otherwise it depends on your version of Windows, e.g. try something like Control Panel->System>possibly "Advanced System Settings" in Vista->Advanced->Environment variables. Peter Jamieson "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message news:5FE1F5BC-3AFA-416A-A73E-6767F02EE046[ at ]microsoft.com... [Quoted Text] > Peter; > > Thanks for getting back to us. How do I find out if it is in the > Windows Path? > > Thanks > > Len > > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: > >> Which particular method worked? >> >> The first thing I would look for in any Word/Access connection using DDE >> is >> to ensure that no dialog boxes are popping up behind Word so that users >> cannot see them and dismiss them. >> >> FWIW I do not usually mix-and-match versions of Word and Access here, but >> another thing I would check if someone is doing that is that the version >> of >> MSACCESS that you need to start is actually in the Windows PATH. If it >> isn't, I suspect DDE will not be able ot find Access and start it. >> >> Peter Jamieson >> >> >> "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message >> news:4DD6EFDE-2E71-4602-8EA4-B0EFFA79C2A3[ at ]microsoft.com... >> > Graham; >> > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS Word >> > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS Word >> > 2000 >> > and MS Access 2002. >> > >> > I know very little about MS Word and that is also a handicap. >> > Application programmers do VB and SQL. >> > >> > I would like to load all of them, but in our country everyone >> > is >> > so scared about litgious fines as a result of licsensing agreements. >> > >> > Thanks Again >> > >> > Len >> > >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: >> > >> >> You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the >> >> topic >> >> of >> >> DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in >> >> future >> >> to >> >> address such matters. >> >> >> >> I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use up >> >> to >> >> date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a >> >> worrying >> >> indictment of your country's education system :( >> >> >> >> -- >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP >> >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Len wrote: >> >> > Graham; >> >> > >> >> > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The problem >> >> > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the >> >> > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from the >> >> > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With limited >> >> > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational >> >> > resources >> >> > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS >> >> > Access, >> >> > but hate them in MS Word. >> >> > >> >> > Thanks Again >> >> > >> >> > Len >> >> > >> >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: >> >> > >> >> >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different versions >> >> >> of >> >> >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE as >> >> >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer >> >> >> his >> >> >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try >> >> >> >> >> >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the >> >> >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions at >> >> >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail merge >> >> >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative >> >> >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for >> >> >> you. >> >> >> >> >> >> -- >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP >> >> >> >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com >> >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Len wrote: >> >> >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every >> >> >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access >> >> >>> installed. >> >> >>> >> >> >>> I am getting the mesage: >> >> >>> >> >> >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access >> >> >>> >> >> >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and >> >> >>> machines. >> >> >>> >> >> >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 >> >> >>> and >> >> >>> Access 2002. >> >> >>> >> >> >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. >> >> >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to >> >> >>> do >> >> >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the >> >> >>> proper >> >> >>> letters to the proper paresnt? >> >> >>> >> >> >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a >> >> >>> solution. >> >> >>> >> >> >>> Thanks in Advance! >> >> >>> >> >> >>> Len >> >> >>> >> >> >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am >> >> >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. >> >> >> >> >> >> >>

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce Len 10/12/2008 10:43:01 PM Peter; I have 120 schools so it is impossible to give you a number. The Oldest MS Access is 2000 and that is only a few schools. Most of them have Access 2002 or 2003, but there are about 20 schools with MS Access 2007. No one is using MS Word 2007 or greater. Most of them are on MS Word 2000, about 105 schools. I am going to try to find the path now and see where I can get with it. Thanks Again Len "Peter Jamieson" wrote: [Quoted Text] > 1. Which particular method worked? > > 2. Which version of Windows are you using on the workstations (i.e. not on > the SBS server?) > > 3. To find out whether access is on the PATH you would need to know the > fully qualified path name of the specific version of Access that Word needs > to open. The file name will probably be MSACCESS.EXE. You may be able to > find the full path name from e.g. an icon on the desktop. You can find out > which folders are in the PATH either by opening a command windows (old-style > "DOS box" and typing PATH, then enter. Otherwise it depends on your version > of Windows, e.g. try something like Control Panel->System>possibly "Advanced > System Settings" in Vista->Advanced->Environment variables. > > Peter Jamieson > > "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message > news:5FE1F5BC-3AFA-416A-A73E-6767F02EE046[ at ]microsoft.com... > > Peter; > > > > Thanks for getting back to us. How do I find out if it is in the > > Windows Path? > > > > Thanks > > > > Len > > > > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: > > > >> Which particular method worked? > >> > >> The first thing I would look for in any Word/Access connection using DDE > >> is > >> to ensure that no dialog boxes are popping up behind Word so that users > >> cannot see them and dismiss them. > >> > >> FWIW I do not usually mix-and-match versions of Word and Access here, but > >> another thing I would check if someone is doing that is that the version > >> of > >> MSACCESS that you need to start is actually in the Windows PATH. If it > >> isn't, I suspect DDE will not be able ot find Access and start it. > >> > >> Peter Jamieson > >> > >> > >> "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message > >> news:4DD6EFDE-2E71-4602-8EA4-B0EFFA79C2A3[ at ]microsoft.com... > >> > Graham; > >> > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS Word > >> > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS Word > >> > 2000 > >> > and MS Access 2002. > >> > > >> > I know very little about MS Word and that is also a handicap. > >> > Application programmers do VB and SQL. > >> > > >> > I would like to load all of them, but in our country everyone > >> > is > >> > so scared about litgious fines as a result of licsensing agreements. > >> > > >> > Thanks Again > >> > > >> > Len > >> > > >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > >> > > >> >> You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the > >> >> topic > >> >> of > >> >> DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in > >> >> future > >> >> to > >> >> address such matters. > >> >> > >> >> I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use up > >> >> to > >> >> date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a > >> >> worrying > >> >> indictment of your country's education system :( > >> >> > >> >> -- > >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > >> >> > >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com > >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> >> > >> >> > >> >> > >> >> Len wrote: > >> >> > Graham; > >> >> > > >> >> > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The problem > >> >> > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the > >> >> > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from the > >> >> > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With limited > >> >> > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational > >> >> > resources > >> >> > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS > >> >> > Access, > >> >> > but hate them in MS Word. > >> >> > > >> >> > Thanks Again > >> >> > > >> >> > Len > >> >> > > >> >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > >> >> > > >> >> >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different versions > >> >> >> of > >> >> >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE as > >> >> >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer > >> >> >> his > >> >> >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try > >> >> >> > >> >> >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the > >> >> >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions at > >> >> >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail merge > >> >> >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative > >> >> >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for > >> >> >> you. > >> >> >> > >> >> >> -- > >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > >> >> >> > >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com > >> >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> >> >> > >> >> >> > >> >> >> Len wrote: > >> >> >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. Every > >> >> >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access > >> >> >>> installed. > >> >> >>> > >> >> >>> I am getting the mesage: > >> >> >>> > >> >> >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Access > >> >> >>> > >> >> >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and > >> >> >>> machines. > >> >> >>> > >> >> >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 > >> >> >>> and > >> >> >>> Access 2002. > >> >> >>> > >> >> >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error above. > >> >> >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need to > >> >> >>> do > >> >> >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the > >> >> >>> proper > >> >> >>> letters to the proper paresnt? > >> >> >>> > >> >> >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find a > >> >> >>> solution. > >> >> >>> > >> >> >>> Thanks in Advance! > >> >> >>> > >> >> >>> Len > >> >> >>> > >> >> >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am > >> >> >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. > >> >> > >> >> > >> >> > >> >

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce "Peter Jamieson" <pjj[ at ]KillmapSpjjnet.demon.co.uk> 10/13/2008 8:51:10 AM Len, [Quoted Text] >> 1. Which particular method worked? I probably misunderstood what you said here... >> >> > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS >> >> > Word >> >> > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS >> >> > Word ....but since i have probably posted several different things that might "work" I wondered which one of them "worked" for Word 2003/Access 2007. Unless of course there's a typo and "did work" was actually supposed to say "did not work" :-) e.g., there is a KB article that /might/ relate to this problem at http://support.microsoft.com/kb/834699/en-us If you are wiling to stick with this conversation over the next few days or so, I can try have a more thorough look at this area, e.g. to create systems with the various combinations that you are using. I can't do any of that today, for example. However, whether I will be able to replicate the errors is another question. Whether I will be able to identify either a "cause" or a cure is also very doubtful. But if we're going to do that, I'd rather start by trying to establish exactly what is and is not happening. Maybe we can step through some of that in the next round of messages. If you would rather do this by email that's fine with me too. On the other hand, perhaps a call directly to Microsoft support (you probably know that we are just volunteers) would be more effective (as long as you can identify a combination of products that does not work and is actually still supported - I suspect it would have to be Win XP or later, Word 2003 or later, Access 2003 or later). Peter Jamieson "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message news:8DE7D644-6ED5-40ED-91A8-0FAE3061D520[ at ]microsoft.com... > Peter; > > I have 120 schools so it is impossible to give you a number. > > The Oldest MS Access is 2000 and that is only a few schools. Most > of > them have Access 2002 or 2003, but there are about 20 schools with MS > Access > 2007. > > No one is using MS Word 2007 or greater. Most of them are on MS > Word 2000, about 105 schools. > > I am going to try to find the path now and see where I can get with > it. > > Thanks Again > > Len > > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: > >> 1. Which particular method worked? >> >> 2. Which version of Windows are you using on the workstations (i.e. not >> on >> the SBS server?) >> >> 3. To find out whether access is on the PATH you would need to know the >> fully qualified path name of the specific version of Access that Word >> needs >> to open. The file name will probably be MSACCESS.EXE. You may be able to >> find the full path name from e.g. an icon on the desktop. You can find >> out >> which folders are in the PATH either by opening a command windows >> (old-style >> "DOS box" and typing PATH, then enter. Otherwise it depends on your >> version >> of Windows, e.g. try something like Control Panel->System>possibly >> "Advanced >> System Settings" in Vista->Advanced->Environment variables. >> >> Peter Jamieson >> >> "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message >> news:5FE1F5BC-3AFA-416A-A73E-6767F02EE046[ at ]microsoft.com... >> > Peter; >> > >> > Thanks for getting back to us. How do I find out if it is in the >> > Windows Path? >> > >> > Thanks >> > >> > Len >> > >> > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: >> > >> >> Which particular method worked? >> >> >> >> The first thing I would look for in any Word/Access connection using >> >> DDE >> >> is >> >> to ensure that no dialog boxes are popping up behind Word so that >> >> users >> >> cannot see them and dismiss them. >> >> >> >> FWIW I do not usually mix-and-match versions of Word and Access here, >> >> but >> >> another thing I would check if someone is doing that is that the >> >> version >> >> of >> >> MSACCESS that you need to start is actually in the Windows PATH. If it >> >> isn't, I suspect DDE will not be able ot find Access and start it. >> >> >> >> Peter Jamieson >> >> >> >> >> >> "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message >> >> news:4DD6EFDE-2E71-4602-8EA4-B0EFFA79C2A3[ at ]microsoft.com... >> >> > Graham; >> >> > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS >> >> > Word >> >> > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS >> >> > Word >> >> > 2000 >> >> > and MS Access 2002. >> >> > >> >> > I know very little about MS Word and that is also a >> >> > handicap. >> >> > Application programmers do VB and SQL. >> >> > >> >> > I would like to load all of them, but in our country >> >> > everyone >> >> > is >> >> > so scared about litgious fines as a result of licsensing agreements. >> >> > >> >> > Thanks Again >> >> > >> >> > Len >> >> > >> >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: >> >> > >> >> >> You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the >> >> >> topic >> >> >> of >> >> >> DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in >> >> >> future >> >> >> to >> >> >> address such matters. >> >> >> >> >> >> I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use >> >> >> up >> >> >> to >> >> >> date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a >> >> >> worrying >> >> >> indictment of your country's education system :( >> >> >> >> >> >> -- >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP >> >> >> >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com >> >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Len wrote: >> >> >> > Graham; >> >> >> > >> >> >> > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The >> >> >> > problem >> >> >> > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the >> >> >> > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from >> >> >> > the >> >> >> > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With >> >> >> > limited >> >> >> > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational >> >> >> > resources >> >> >> > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS >> >> >> > Access, >> >> >> > but hate them in MS Word. >> >> >> > >> >> >> > Thanks Again >> >> >> > >> >> >> > Len >> >> >> > >> >> >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different >> >> >> >> versions >> >> >> >> of >> >> >> >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE >> >> >> >> as >> >> >> >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer >> >> >> >> his >> >> >> >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the >> >> >> >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions >> >> >> >> at >> >> >> >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail >> >> >> >> merge >> >> >> >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative >> >> >> >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for >> >> >> >> you. >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> -- >> >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com >> >> >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org >> >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Len wrote: >> >> >> >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. >> >> >> >>> Every >> >> >> >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access >> >> >> >>> installed. >> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >>> I am getting the mesage: >> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft >> >> >> >>> Access >> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and >> >> >> >>> machines. >> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 >> >> >> >>> and >> >> >> >>> Access 2002. >> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error >> >> >> >>> above. >> >> >> >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need >> >> >> >>> to >> >> >> >>> do >> >> >> >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the >> >> >> >>> proper >> >> >> >>> letters to the proper paresnt? >> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find >> >> >> >>> a >> >> >> >>> solution. >> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >>> Thanks in Advance! >> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >>> Len >> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am >> >> >> >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce Len 10/13/2008 12:23:01 PM Peter; It works with Word 2003 and Access 2007. The programmer who worked with Microsoft was on the phone with them for about 7 hours. I do not know what they did. I looked at the path and saw nothing that pointed to the Directory ("Folder") MSOffice where we have both the Word and Access Programs stored. On this system I had to drive about 75 miles one way. Our schools district is about 22,000 square miles. This is why it is taking so long to get back to you. We are even getting the error on a system that has both Word and Access 2002. Thanks Again Len "Peter Jamieson" wrote: [Quoted Text] > Len, > > >> 1. Which particular method worked? > > I probably misunderstood what you said here... > > >> >> > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS > >> >> > Word > >> >> > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS > >> >> > Word > > ...but since i have probably posted several different things that might > "work" I wondered which one of them "worked" for Word 2003/Access 2007. > Unless of course there's a typo and "did work" was actually supposed to say > "did not work" :-) e.g., there is a KB article that /might/ relate to this > problem at http://support.microsoft.com/kb/834699/en-us > > If you are wiling to stick with this conversation over the next few days or > so, I can try have a more thorough look at this area, e.g. to create systems > with the various combinations that you are using. I can't do any of that > today, for example. However, whether I will be able to replicate the errors > is another question. Whether I will be able to identify either a "cause" or > a cure is also very doubtful. But if we're going to do that, I'd rather > start by trying to establish exactly what is and is not happening. Maybe we > can step through some of that in the next round of messages. > > If you would rather do this by email that's fine with me too. > > On the other hand, perhaps a call directly to Microsoft support (you > probably know that we are just volunteers) would be more effective (as long > as you can identify a combination of products that does not work and is > actually still supported - I suspect it would have to be Win XP or later, > Word 2003 or later, Access 2003 or later). > > Peter Jamieson > > "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message > news:8DE7D644-6ED5-40ED-91A8-0FAE3061D520[ at ]microsoft.com... > > Peter; > > > > I have 120 schools so it is impossible to give you a number. > > > > The Oldest MS Access is 2000 and that is only a few schools. Most > > of > > them have Access 2002 or 2003, but there are about 20 schools with MS > > Access > > 2007. > > > > No one is using MS Word 2007 or greater. Most of them are on MS > > Word 2000, about 105 schools. > > > > I am going to try to find the path now and see where I can get with > > it. > > > > Thanks Again > > > > Len > > > > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: > > > >> 1. Which particular method worked? > >> > >> 2. Which version of Windows are you using on the workstations (i.e. not > >> on > >> the SBS server?) > >> > >> 3. To find out whether access is on the PATH you would need to know the > >> fully qualified path name of the specific version of Access that Word > >> needs > >> to open. The file name will probably be MSACCESS.EXE. You may be able to > >> find the full path name from e.g. an icon on the desktop. You can find > >> out > >> which folders are in the PATH either by opening a command windows > >> (old-style > >> "DOS box" and typing PATH, then enter. Otherwise it depends on your > >> version > >> of Windows, e.g. try something like Control Panel->System>possibly > >> "Advanced > >> System Settings" in Vista->Advanced->Environment variables. > >> > >> Peter Jamieson > >> > >> "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message > >> news:5FE1F5BC-3AFA-416A-A73E-6767F02EE046[ at ]microsoft.com... > >> > Peter; > >> > > >> > Thanks for getting back to us. How do I find out if it is in the > >> > Windows Path? > >> > > >> > Thanks > >> > > >> > Len > >> > > >> > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: > >> > > >> >> Which particular method worked? > >> >> > >> >> The first thing I would look for in any Word/Access connection using > >> >> DDE > >> >> is > >> >> to ensure that no dialog boxes are popping up behind Word so that > >> >> users > >> >> cannot see them and dismiss them. > >> >> > >> >> FWIW I do not usually mix-and-match versions of Word and Access here, > >> >> but > >> >> another thing I would check if someone is doing that is that the > >> >> version > >> >> of > >> >> MSACCESS that you need to start is actually in the Windows PATH. If it > >> >> isn't, I suspect DDE will not be able ot find Access and start it. > >> >> > >> >> Peter Jamieson > >> >> > >> >> > >> >> "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message > >> >> news:4DD6EFDE-2E71-4602-8EA4-B0EFFA79C2A3[ at ]microsoft.com... > >> >> > Graham; > >> >> > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS > >> >> > Word > >> >> > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS > >> >> > Word > >> >> > 2000 > >> >> > and MS Access 2002. > >> >> > > >> >> > I know very little about MS Word and that is also a > >> >> > handicap. > >> >> > Application programmers do VB and SQL. > >> >> > > >> >> > I would like to load all of them, but in our country > >> >> > everyone > >> >> > is > >> >> > so scared about litgious fines as a result of licsensing agreements. > >> >> > > >> >> > Thanks Again > >> >> > > >> >> > Len > >> >> > > >> >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > >> >> > > >> >> >> You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the > >> >> >> topic > >> >> >> of > >> >> >> DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in > >> >> >> future > >> >> >> to > >> >> >> address such matters. > >> >> >> > >> >> >> I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use > >> >> >> up > >> >> >> to > >> >> >> date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a > >> >> >> worrying > >> >> >> indictment of your country's education system :( > >> >> >> > >> >> >> -- > >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > >> >> >> > >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com > >> >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> >> >> > >> >> >> > >> >> >> > >> >> >> Len wrote: > >> >> >> > Graham; > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The > >> >> >> > problem > >> >> >> > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the > >> >> >> > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from > >> >> >> > the > >> >> >> > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With > >> >> >> > limited > >> >> >> > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational > >> >> >> > resources > >> >> >> > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS > >> >> >> > Access, > >> >> >> > but hate them in MS Word. > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> > Thanks Again > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> > Len > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different > >> >> >> >> versions > >> >> >> >> of > >> >> >> >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE > >> >> >> >> as > >> >> >> >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer > >> >> >> >> his > >> >> >> >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the > >> >> >> >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions > >> >> >> >> at > >> >> >> >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail > >> >> >> >> merge > >> >> >> >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative > >> >> >> >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for > >> >> >> >> you. > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> -- > >> >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> >> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com > >> >> >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > >> >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> Len wrote: > >> >> >> >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. > >> >> >> >>> Every > >> >> >> >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access > >> >> >> >>> installed. > >> >> >> >>> > >> >> >> >>> I am getting the mesage: > >> >> >> >>> > >> >> >> >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft > >> >> >> >>> Access > >> >> >> >>> > >> >> >> >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and > >> >> >> >>> machines. > >> >> >> >>> > >> >> >> >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 > >> >> >> >>> and > >> >> >> >>> Access 2002. > >> >> >> >>> > >> >> >> >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error > >> >> >> >>> above. > >> >> >> >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need > >> >> >> >>> to > >> >> >> >>> do > >> >> >> >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the > >> >> >> >>> proper > >> >> >> >>> letters to the proper paresnt? > >> >> >> >>> > >> >> >> >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find > >> >> >> >>> a > >> >> >> >>> solution. > >> >> >> >>> > >> >> >> >>> Thanks in Advance! > >> >> >> >>> > >> >> >> >>> Len > >> >> >> >>> > >> >> >> >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am > >> >> >> >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. > >> >> >> > >> >> >> > >> >> >> > >> >> > >> >

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce Len 10/13/2008 3:19:00 PM Peter; Changing the Path is working on Word 2000 and Access 2002 and/or Access 2003, but not 2007. I am going to drive to all the schools and update them and see what is not working when I have visited them all. Thank You and Later Len "Len" wrote: [Quoted Text] > Peter; > > It works with Word 2003 and Access 2007. The programmer who worked > with Microsoft was on the phone with them for about 7 hours. I do not know > what they did. I looked at the path and saw nothing that pointed to the > Directory ("Folder") MSOffice where we have both the Word and Access Programs > stored. > > On this system I had to drive about 75 miles one way. Our schools > district is about 22,000 square miles. This is why it is taking so long to > get back to you. > > We are even getting the error on a system that has both Word and > Access 2002. > > Thanks Again > > Len > > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: > > > Len, > > > > >> 1. Which particular method worked? > > > > I probably misunderstood what you said here... > > > > >> >> > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS > > >> >> > Word > > >> >> > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS > > >> >> > Word > > > > ...but since i have probably posted several different things that might > > "work" I wondered which one of them "worked" for Word 2003/Access 2007. > > Unless of course there's a typo and "did work" was actually supposed to say > > "did not work" :-) e.g., there is a KB article that /might/ relate to this > > problem at http://support.microsoft.com/kb/834699/en-us > > > > If you are wiling to stick with this conversation over the next few days or > > so, I can try have a more thorough look at this area, e.g. to create systems > > with the various combinations that you are using. I can't do any of that > > today, for example. However, whether I will be able to replicate the errors > > is another question. Whether I will be able to identify either a "cause" or > > a cure is also very doubtful. But if we're going to do that, I'd rather > > start by trying to establish exactly what is and is not happening. Maybe we > > can step through some of that in the next round of messages. > > > > If you would rather do this by email that's fine with me too. > > > > On the other hand, perhaps a call directly to Microsoft support (you > > probably know that we are just volunteers) would be more effective (as long > > as you can identify a combination of products that does not work and is > > actually still supported - I suspect it would have to be Win XP or later, > > Word 2003 or later, Access 2003 or later). > > > > Peter Jamieson > > > > "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message > > news:8DE7D644-6ED5-40ED-91A8-0FAE3061D520[ at ]microsoft.com... > > > Peter; > > > > > > I have 120 schools so it is impossible to give you a number. > > > > > > The Oldest MS Access is 2000 and that is only a few schools. Most > > > of > > > them have Access 2002 or 2003, but there are about 20 schools with MS > > > Access > > > 2007. > > > > > > No one is using MS Word 2007 or greater. Most of them are on MS > > > Word 2000, about 105 schools. > > > > > > I am going to try to find the path now and see where I can get with > > > it. > > > > > > Thanks Again > > > > > > Len > > > > > > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: > > > > > >> 1. Which particular method worked? > > >> > > >> 2. Which version of Windows are you using on the workstations (i.e. not > > >> on > > >> the SBS server?) > > >> > > >> 3. To find out whether access is on the PATH you would need to know the > > >> fully qualified path name of the specific version of Access that Word > > >> needs > > >> to open. The file name will probably be MSACCESS.EXE. You may be able to > > >> find the full path name from e.g. an icon on the desktop. You can find > > >> out > > >> which folders are in the PATH either by opening a command windows > > >> (old-style > > >> "DOS box" and typing PATH, then enter. Otherwise it depends on your > > >> version > > >> of Windows, e.g. try something like Control Panel->System>possibly > > >> "Advanced > > >> System Settings" in Vista->Advanced->Environment variables. > > >> > > >> Peter Jamieson > > >> > > >> "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message > > >> news:5FE1F5BC-3AFA-416A-A73E-6767F02EE046[ at ]microsoft.com... > > >> > Peter; > > >> > > > >> > Thanks for getting back to us. How do I find out if it is in the > > >> > Windows Path? > > >> > > > >> > Thanks > > >> > > > >> > Len > > >> > > > >> > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: > > >> > > > >> >> Which particular method worked? > > >> >> > > >> >> The first thing I would look for in any Word/Access connection using > > >> >> DDE > > >> >> is > > >> >> to ensure that no dialog boxes are popping up behind Word so that > > >> >> users > > >> >> cannot see them and dismiss them. > > >> >> > > >> >> FWIW I do not usually mix-and-match versions of Word and Access here, > > >> >> but > > >> >> another thing I would check if someone is doing that is that the > > >> >> version > > >> >> of > > >> >> MSACCESS that you need to start is actually in the Windows PATH. If it > > >> >> isn't, I suspect DDE will not be able ot find Access and start it. > > >> >> > > >> >> Peter Jamieson > > >> >> > > >> >> > > >> >> "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message > > >> >> news:4DD6EFDE-2E71-4602-8EA4-B0EFFA79C2A3[ at ]microsoft.com... > > >> >> > Graham; > > >> >> > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with MS > > >> >> > Word > > >> >> > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with MS > > >> >> > Word > > >> >> > 2000 > > >> >> > and MS Access 2002. > > >> >> > > > >> >> > I know very little about MS Word and that is also a > > >> >> > handicap. > > >> >> > Application programmers do VB and SQL. > > >> >> > > > >> >> > I would like to load all of them, but in our country > > >> >> > everyone > > >> >> > is > > >> >> > so scared about litgious fines as a result of licsensing agreements. > > >> >> > > > >> >> > Thanks Again > > >> >> > > > >> >> > Len > > >> >> > > > >> >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > > >> >> > > > >> >> >> You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions on the > > >> >> >> topic > > >> >> >> of > > >> >> >> DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often in > > >> >> >> future > > >> >> >> to > > >> >> >> address such matters. > > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids who use > > >> >> >> up > > >> >> >> to > > >> >> >> date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, is a > > >> >> >> worrying > > >> >> >> indictment of your country's education system :( > > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> -- > > >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > >> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com > > >> >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > > >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> Len wrote: > > >> >> >> > Graham; > > >> >> >> > > > >> >> >> > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The > > >> >> >> > problem > > >> >> >> > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on the > > >> >> >> > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades from > > >> >> >> > the > > >> >> >> > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With > > >> >> >> > limited > > >> >> >> > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational > > >> >> >> > resources > > >> >> >> > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in MS > > >> >> >> > Access, > > >> >> >> > but hate them in MS Word. > > >> >> >> > > > >> >> >> > Thanks Again > > >> >> >> > > > >> >> >> > Len > > >> >> >> > > > >> >> >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: > > >> >> >> > > > >> >> >> >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different > > >> >> >> >> versions > > >> >> >> >> of > > >> >> >> >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned DDE > > >> >> >> >> as > > >> >> >> >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to offer > > >> >> >> >> his > > >> >> >> >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try > > >> >> >> >> > > >> >> >> >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to the > > >> >> >> >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm conversions > > >> >> >> >> at > > >> >> >> >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the mail > > >> >> >> >> merge > > >> >> >> >> main document, you will be given the option of using alternative > > >> >> >> >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works for > > >> >> >> >> you. > > >> >> >> >> > > >> >> >> >> -- > > >> >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > >> >> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP > > >> >> >> >> > > >> >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com > > >> >> >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org > > >> >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> > > >> >> >> >> > > >> >> >> >> > > >> >> >> >> Len wrote: > > >> >> >> >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 schools. > > >> >> >> >>> Every > > >> >> >> >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft Access > > >> >> >> >>> installed. > > >> >> >> >>> > > >> >> >> >>> I am getting the mesage: > > >> >> >> >>> > > >> >> >> >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft > > >> >> >> >>> Access > > >> >> >> >>> > > >> >> >> >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and > > >> >> >> >>> machines. > > >> >> >> >>> > > >> >> >> >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word 2000 > > >> >> >> >>> and > > >> >> >> >>> Access 2002. > > >> >> >> >>> > > >> >> >> >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the error > > >> >> >> >>> above. > > >> >> >> >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I need > > >> >> >> >>> to > > >> >> >> >>> do > > >> >> >> >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send the > > >> >> >> >>> proper > > >> >> >> >>> letters to the proper paresnt? > > >> >> >> >>> > > >> >> >> >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot find > > >> >> >> >>> a > > >> >> >> >>> solution. > > >> >> >> >>> > > >> >> >> >>> Thanks in Advance! > > >> >> >> >>> > > >> >> >> >>> Len > > >> >> >> >>> > > >> >> >> >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I am > > >> >> >> >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. > > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> > > >> >> >> > > >> >> > > >> > >

Re: Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft Acce "Peter Jamieson" <pjj[ at ]KillmapSpjjnet.demon.co.uk> 10/14/2008 2:41:46 PM HI Len, Well that's something. DDE connectivity with Access 2007 seems to be a problem even for Word 2007 users in some cases. -- Peter Jamieson http://tips.pjmsn.me.uk "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message news:39D0E348-64AE-4577-A1D3-6FF3C05EE2AF[ at ]microsoft.com... [Quoted Text] > Peter; > > Changing the Path is working on Word 2000 and Access 2002 and/or > Access 2003, but not 2007. I am going to drive to all the schools and > update > them and see what is not working when I have visited them all. > > Thank You and Later > > Len > > "Len" wrote: > >> Peter; >> >> It works with Word 2003 and Access 2007. The programmer who >> worked >> with Microsoft was on the phone with them for about 7 hours. I do not >> know >> what they did. I looked at the path and saw nothing that pointed to the >> Directory ("Folder") MSOffice where we have both the Word and Access >> Programs >> stored. >> >> On this system I had to drive about 75 miles one way. Our schools >> district is about 22,000 square miles. This is why it is taking so long >> to >> get back to you. >> >> We are even getting the error on a system that has both Word and >> Access 2002. >> >> Thanks Again >> >> Len >> >> "Peter Jamieson" wrote: >> >> > Len, >> > >> > >> 1. Which particular method worked? >> > >> > I probably misunderstood what you said here... >> > >> > >> >> > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with >> > >> >> > MS >> > >> >> > Word >> > >> >> > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with >> > >> >> > MS >> > >> >> > Word >> > >> > ...but since i have probably posted several different things that might >> > "work" I wondered which one of them "worked" for Word 2003/Access 2007. >> > Unless of course there's a typo and "did work" was actually supposed to >> > say >> > "did not work" :-) e.g., there is a KB article that /might/ relate to >> > this >> > problem at http://support.microsoft.com/kb/834699/en-us >> > >> > If you are wiling to stick with this conversation over the next few >> > days or >> > so, I can try have a more thorough look at this area, e.g. to create >> > systems >> > with the various combinations that you are using. I can't do any of >> > that >> > today, for example. However, whether I will be able to replicate the >> > errors >> > is another question. Whether I will be able to identify either a >> > "cause" or >> > a cure is also very doubtful. But if we're going to do that, I'd rather >> > start by trying to establish exactly what is and is not happening. >> > Maybe we >> > can step through some of that in the next round of messages. >> > >> > If you would rather do this by email that's fine with me too. >> > >> > On the other hand, perhaps a call directly to Microsoft support (you >> > probably know that we are just volunteers) would be more effective (as >> > long >> > as you can identify a combination of products that does not work and is >> > actually still supported - I suspect it would have to be Win XP or >> > later, >> > Word 2003 or later, Access 2003 or later). >> > >> > Peter Jamieson >> > >> > "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message >> > news:8DE7D644-6ED5-40ED-91A8-0FAE3061D520[ at ]microsoft.com... >> > > Peter; >> > > >> > > I have 120 schools so it is impossible to give you a number. >> > > >> > > The Oldest MS Access is 2000 and that is only a few schools. >> > > Most >> > > of >> > > them have Access 2002 or 2003, but there are about 20 schools with MS >> > > Access >> > > 2007. >> > > >> > > No one is using MS Word 2007 or greater. Most of them are on >> > > MS >> > > Word 2000, about 105 schools. >> > > >> > > I am going to try to find the path now and see where I can get >> > > with >> > > it. >> > > >> > > Thanks Again >> > > >> > > Len >> > > >> > > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: >> > > >> > >> 1. Which particular method worked? >> > >> >> > >> 2. Which version of Windows are you using on the workstations (i.e. >> > >> not >> > >> on >> > >> the SBS server?) >> > >> >> > >> 3. To find out whether access is on the PATH you would need to know >> > >> the >> > >> fully qualified path name of the specific version of Access that >> > >> Word >> > >> needs >> > >> to open. The file name will probably be MSACCESS.EXE. You may be >> > >> able to >> > >> find the full path name from e.g. an icon on the desktop. You can >> > >> find >> > >> out >> > >> which folders are in the PATH either by opening a command windows >> > >> (old-style >> > >> "DOS box" and typing PATH, then enter. Otherwise it depends on your >> > >> version >> > >> of Windows, e.g. try something like Control Panel->System>possibly >> > >> "Advanced >> > >> System Settings" in Vista->Advanced->Environment variables. >> > >> >> > >> Peter Jamieson >> > >> >> > >> "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message >> > >> news:5FE1F5BC-3AFA-416A-A73E-6767F02EE046[ at ]microsoft.com... >> > >> > Peter; >> > >> > >> > >> > Thanks for getting back to us. How do I find out if it is >> > >> > in the >> > >> > Windows Path? >> > >> > >> > >> > Thanks >> > >> > >> > >> > Len >> > >> > >> > >> > "Peter Jamieson" wrote: >> > >> > >> > >> >> Which particular method worked? >> > >> >> >> > >> >> The first thing I would look for in any Word/Access connection >> > >> >> using >> > >> >> DDE >> > >> >> is >> > >> >> to ensure that no dialog boxes are popping up behind Word so that >> > >> >> users >> > >> >> cannot see them and dismiss them. >> > >> >> >> > >> >> FWIW I do not usually mix-and-match versions of Word and Access >> > >> >> here, >> > >> >> but >> > >> >> another thing I would check if someone is doing that is that the >> > >> >> version >> > >> >> of >> > >> >> MSACCESS that you need to start is actually in the Windows PATH. >> > >> >> If it >> > >> >> isn't, I suspect DDE will not be able ot find Access and start >> > >> >> it. >> > >> >> >> > >> >> Peter Jamieson >> > >> >> >> > >> >> >> > >> >> "Len" <Len[ at ]discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message >> > >> >> news:4DD6EFDE-2E71-4602-8EA4-B0EFFA79C2A3[ at ]microsoft.com... >> > >> >> > Graham; >> > >> >> > I have just learned that Peter's method did work with >> > >> >> > MS >> > >> >> > Word >> > >> >> > 2003 and MS Access 2007. It appears that it does not work with >> > >> >> > MS >> > >> >> > Word >> > >> >> > 2000 >> > >> >> > and MS Access 2002. >> > >> >> > >> > >> >> > I know very little about MS Word and that is also a >> > >> >> > handicap. >> > >> >> > Application programmers do VB and SQL. >> > >> >> > >> > >> >> > I would like to load all of them, but in our country >> > >> >> > everyone >> > >> >> > is >> > >> >> > so scared about litgious fines as a result of licsensing >> > >> >> > agreements. >> > >> >> > >> > >> >> > Thanks Again >> > >> >> > >> > >> >> > Len >> > >> >> > >> > >> >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: >> > >> >> > >> > >> >> >> You could search the forum for Peter's earlier contributions >> > >> >> >> on the >> > >> >> >> topic >> > >> >> >> of >> > >> >> >> DDE as he has indicated that he will not be available so often >> > >> >> >> in >> > >> >> >> future >> > >> >> >> to >> > >> >> >> address such matters. >> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> I understand budget limitations but failing grades for kids >> > >> >> >> who use >> > >> >> >> up >> > >> >> >> to >> > >> >> >> date software, because the teachers prefer an ancient version, >> > >> >> >> is a >> > >> >> >> worrying >> > >> >> >> indictment of your country's education system :( >> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> -- >> > >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> > >> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP >> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com >> > >> >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org >> > >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> Len wrote: >> > >> >> >> > Graham; >> > >> >> >> > >> > >> >> >> > Thanks for the tip, however it still failed. The >> > >> >> >> > problem >> > >> >> >> > with Word and the later versions is that if the kids rely on >> > >> >> >> > the >> > >> >> >> > later versions of MS Word too much they get failing grades >> > >> >> >> > from >> > >> >> >> > the >> > >> >> >> > English teachers. The teachers still prefer Word 97. With >> > >> >> >> > limited >> > >> >> >> > funds and me trying to keep up to date with the educational >> > >> >> >> > resources >> > >> >> >> > we have it is a constant fight. They love the upgrades in >> > >> >> >> > MS >> > >> >> >> > Access, >> > >> >> >> > but hate them in MS Word. >> > >> >> >> > >> > >> >> >> > Thanks Again >> > >> >> >> > >> > >> >> >> > Len >> > >> >> >> > >> > >> >> >> > "Graham Mayor" wrote: >> > >> >> >> > >> > >> >> >> >> DDE is at best flaky and not helped by running different >> > >> >> >> >> versions >> > >> >> >> >> of >> > >> >> >> >> the software. For this reason later versions have abandoned >> > >> >> >> >> DDE >> > >> >> >> >> as >> > >> >> >> >> the default connection method. Peter may be along later to >> > >> >> >> >> offer >> > >> >> >> >> his >> > >> >> >> >> knowledge on the subject but you could in the meantime try >> > >> >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> From the Tools menu in Word, select Options and then go to >> > >> >> >> >> the >> > >> >> >> >> General tab and check the box against the "Confirm >> > >> >> >> >> conversions >> > >> >> >> >> at >> > >> >> >> >> open" item. Then when you attach the data source to the >> > >> >> >> >> mail >> > >> >> >> >> merge >> > >> >> >> >> main document, you will be given the option of using >> > >> >> >> >> alternative >> > >> >> >> >> methods of connection. See if one of the alternatives works >> > >> >> >> >> for >> > >> >> >> >> you. >> > >> >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> -- >> > >> >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> > >> >> >> >> Graham Mayor - Word MVP >> > >> >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> My web site www.gmayor.com >> > >> >> >> >> Word MVP web site http://word.mvps.org >> > >> >> >> >> <>>< ><<> ><<> <>>< ><<> <>>< <>><<> >> > >> >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> Len wrote: >> > >> >> >> >>> I am working with 19 school districts and over 100 >> > >> >> >> >>> schools. >> > >> >> >> >>> Every >> > >> >> >> >>> computer can have different Microsoft Word and Microsoft >> > >> >> >> >>> Access >> > >> >> >> >>> installed. >> > >> >> >> >>> >> > >> >> >> >>> I am getting the mesage: >> > >> >> >> >>> >> > >> >> >> >>> Word could not re-establish a DDE Connection to Microsoft >> > >> >> >> >>> Access >> > >> >> >> >>> >> > >> >> >> >>> When we get the funding we upgrade the oldest software and >> > >> >> >> >>> machines. >> > >> >> >> >>> >> > >> >> >> >>> The system I am on now is SBS (Small Business Server) Word >> > >> >> >> >>> 2000 >> > >> >> >> >>> and >> > >> >> >> >>> Access 2002. >> > >> >> >> >>> >> > >> >> >> >>> As soon as I go to open the Access Database I get the >> > >> >> >> >>> error >> > >> >> >> >>> above. >> > >> >> >> >>> This is happening on about 85% of my systems. What do I >> > >> >> >> >>> need >> > >> >> >> >>> to >> > >> >> >> >>> do >> > >> >> >> >>> to get all of my Mail-Merges to work so that we can send >> > >> >> >> >>> the >> > >> >> >> >>> proper >> > >> >> >> >>> letters to the proper paresnt? >> > >> >> >> >>> >> > >> >> >> >>> I have been messing with this for several weeks and cannot >> > >> >> >> >>> find >> > >> >> >> >>> a >> > >> >> >> >>> solution. >> > >> >> >> >>> >> > >> >> >> >>> Thanks in Advance! >> > >> >> >> >>> >> > >> >> >> >>> Len >> > >> >> >> >>> >> > >> >> >> >>> I tried the solutions from previous postings and either I >> > >> >> >> >>> am >> > >> >> >> >>> miss-understanding them or they do not work. >> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> > >> >> >> > >> >> >