How to Identify the Functions of a Switchboard in Microsoft Access

You can correct switchboard errors by accessing the underlying structure.

Microsoft Access switchboards place commonly used objects at your fingertips. Switchboards are created, modified and organized through a "Switchboard Manager." If you renamed an object that is used by the switchboard, the switchboard button won't work. You can correct the problem by accessing the underlying structure. Or if you are unsure what certain switchboard buttons do, you can view their function and associated objects. All of the switchboard functions are listed in the "Switchboard Manager."

Instructions

1. Open the "Switchboard Manager" from the file menu or ribbon, depending on which version of Microsoft Access you use. For Access 2003 click on "Tools," then "Database Utilities" and then "Switchboard Manager." For Access 2007 and beyond, click on the "Switchboard Manager" button on the ribbon.

2. Select the switchboard page that contains the buttons that you want to view. Simple switchboards will only have one main page with several buttons, but more complex switchboards will have multiple pages. Click the "Edit" button to access the switchboard page details.

3. Select the item that contains the function that you want to view. You should recognize the items on the switchboard page as buttons during normal switchboard use. Click "Edit" to view and modify the text, command and object associated with that button.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't see the "Switchboard Manager" button on the ribbon at the top of the page, add it through the Access options under the "Customize Ribbon" tab.

References

• Microsoft Office: Create and Use a Switchbord