The Microsoft Access provider type allows PADS4 to connect to Microsoft Access databases (Office 2010 or earlier).

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Requirements

  • Office System Drivers
    • If you’re using Windows 7 or certain other Windows versions, you may need to install the Office System drivers before connecting to a Microsoft Access database.
    • These drivers are available for free on the Microsoft website.

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Steps to Connect to a Microsoft Access Database

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1. Start the Data Provider Wizard

  • Open the Data Provider Wizard by following the instructions in Adding a Data Provider or Editing a Data Provider.
  • Select Microsoft Access as the provider type.

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2. Specify the Access Database File Location

  • Choose between:
    • Content Library (Recommended) → Uses a database stored in the PADS4 Content Library.
    • File Name → Uses a database outside the Content Library (must specify the full file path).
  • Click Browse to locate and select the .mdb or .accdb file.
For Protected Databases:
  • If your database requires authentication, enter the Login Name and Password.
  • Click Test to verify the connection.

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3. Select the Data Source

  • Choose the type of data to retrieve:
    • Tables – Select a table from the dropdown list.
    • Queries – Select a query that already exists in the database.
    • Parameter Queries – If your query requires parameters, configure them accordingly.
    • SQL Statement – Manually enter an SQL query (Only use this if no predefined tables or queries meet your needs).
Tip:
Using SQL Statements may reduce performance since they need to be validated every time data is retrieved.

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4. Complete the Setup

  • Click Next to proceed.
  • Finish the setup by completing the Data Provider Wizard.

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Important Considerations

  • Using a PADS4 Data Server
    • If a PADS4 Data Server is in use, ensure that the Office System drivers are installed on the server.
    • The Access database must be accessible from the server’s point of view.
  • Without a PADS4 Data Server
    • Ensure that PADS4 Designer (for previewing) and PADS4 Viewers have the Office System drivers installed.
    • Confirm that each Viewer can access the database.
  • Avoid Using Shared Network Folders
    • Using a shared network folder (via a mapped drive or UNC path) for an Access database can cause high network traffic whenever data is refreshed.
    • It’s recommended to store the database in the PADS4 Content Library or use a centralized SQL database for better performance.
By following these steps, PADS4 can successfully connect to a Microsoft Access database and retrieve real-time data.