How to open DBase a III table non-exclusively

[Dropsun]

I have a Dbase III table (we'll call it "table Z") that is used by several applications. These applications do not open the table in exclusive mode -- they use record-locking when adding, deleting or modifying table "Z'.

I am trying to create an Access 2003 database that has to link to table "Z". This table only needs read-only access to the table, but will use it's data in the Access database. It will not add, delete or modify table "Z".

Each time I try to link, I get the following Microsoft Office Access error message: "The Microsoft Jet database engine cannot open the file [path and name of table]. It is already opened exclusively by another user, or you need permission to view its data."

Now I know I have full access to table "Z", so permissions are not a problem. I also know the other applications that use table "Z" do not open it exclusively -- they use record level locking when they add, delete or modify a record in table "Z".

I know I can set up a .bat file that will copy table "Z" to the customer's computer, open the Access database and programatically link to the table, but would like to find a better way.

Anyone know of a way I can get around the "...it is already opened exclusively" problem?

[zmbd]

More than likely either:
1) someone has the file open in exclusive mode
2) your connect string has a goof in it.

Please post the code you are using to establish the connection.

PLEASE format the posted script using the [CODE/] button in the tool bar and inserting the script between the code tags.