This application will be a computer software cataloging system that can fairly easily be copied and converted for use in a number of other applications. We will create a relational database system.

We will create the tables to hold the data, forms for data entry and editing, queries for data selection, reports, and provide some automation with macros and some Visual BASIC for Applications programming.

The instructions assume that you know the basics of Windows navigation such as mouse clicking, dragging, and navigating the common dialog boxes such as those that open and save files.

If it's not already open,launch Microsoft Access. If using Win95 version click the radio button indicating that you want to create a new blank database. If using version 1.x or 2.x click File | New. In Microsoft Access97 use File | New Database.

The first thing Microsoft Access has you do is save the empty database file. The Windows Save As… dialog will pop up. Navigate through your directory system and find the directory where you want your database to reside and then type a name for your MDB file. Whatever you do, don't put it in the program directory with Microsoft Access.

I named this one Software, and put it in a directory named \DATA \COMPUTER.

In the instructions for our sample application Ariel font is applied to items that you are to type or select. For example if you were to type the word text or Text the instruction would read "type Text" (without the quotes, of course).

Without including it in the instructions, we'll always assume that your have Microsoft Access loaded and the Software database window open when you begin each session.