Using Access Attachment function

[ljones]

I am considering using attachments (all PDFs) instead of hyperlinking to the documents.

If you use the "Attachment s" function, are the attachments actually stored within the database or stored in a directory outside the database and linked. Because of the number of records and attachments, I am concerned about how large the database becomes.

[zmbd]

This replaces the older OLE fields.
The file is stored in the database and counts against the 2Gb file sized limitation. More Information on Attachment Fields.

[TheSmileyCoder]

Unless you are dealing with a rather limited database (in terms of size/number of records) I would recommend storing them in a network folder and storing the path instead.

I use a control that allows drag and drop, and when something is dropped onto the field, it triggers a filecopy and starts a record, in which the user can add extra details that can't be read from the filename and properties.

I don't see much benefit of storing items directly inside the database, but there might be cases I haven't considered. Perhaps a small parts database might benefit in efficiency from storing say part pictures internally, but when it comes to documents and pdfs I see no good reason to store them internally.

Just my 2 cents, others might feel differently about the subject.

[NeoPa]

LJones:
Because of the number of records and attachments, I am concerned about how large the database becomes.

I suggest you store links rather than the attachments if this is your concern. Attachments can certainly cause a database to grow radically in size.

[ljones]

I'm interested in your control that allows drag and drop, and when something is dropped onto the field, it triggers a filecopy and starts a record, in which the user can add extra details that can't be read from the filename and properties.
Was this coding that needs to be done, or can you point me to the control/function to accomplish this? If this is coding, can you share?

[TheSmileyCoder]

Ok, I don't have the time today, and I need some time to simplify my current code a bit, cause alot of it would be unrelated and might just confuse matters. I will try to get back to you as soon as I can.