How to Insert a Picture, Graph or Office Document in an Access 2003 Database

With Microsoft Access 2003, adding a picture, graph or another Office document into a database can enhance the database and may even make it easier for you to understand. Take these steps to insert a picture, graph or Office document into Access 2003.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft Access 2003
• Computer

Instructions

1. Create an OLE field within a database. Open the table you will be using in "Design View."

2. In the first blank row of the design tool, enter the appropriate type of field under "Field Name."

3. Click on the next field in the "Data Type" column. Select "OLE Object" from the dropdown menu.

4. Save the table and close it. Reopen the table in "Datasheet" view.

5. Right-click in the data field that contains your OLE object. Select "Insert Object" from the menu. You will be given a choice of objects and applications. You can create a new picture, document or chart, or open existing ones.

6. Once selected, the appropriate application will start. You will can open, create and save the type of object you wish to insert. You may choose "Display as Icon" if you wish to see an icon representing your object.

7. Saving your project or database implements your changes.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you insert objects that are saved elsewhere, either on your computer or on the Internet.

• Do not delete files that you intend to insert. Linking to files via the Internet uses fewer system resources than embedding the files in the database.