Database Reference
In-Depth Information
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New database templates
Creating common types of databases is easier when you
start with a template. The database templates that come with Access are supple-
mented by those made available by a community of database developers through
the Office website.
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Application parts
Add predefined database objects to an existing database. In ad-
dition to various types of forms, several Quick Start parts are available. For example,
adding the Contacts part adds one table and associated queries, forms, and reports.
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Enhanced Layout view and layout controls
It is easy to make design changes in
Layout view while viewing the underlying data.
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Enhanced Expression Builder
The layout of the Expression Builder dialog box has
been refined to make building an expression more intuitive. In addition, a feature
called IntelliSense has been incorporated to display options based on what you enter
and to provide syntax guidance.
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Improved conditional formatting
You can use data bars to add at-a-glance insight
into the data in Number fields.
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Ability to export to PDF and XPS files
When you want to make a report or other
database object available to people but don't want them to be able to manipulate it,
export the object in either PDF or XPS format. You can optimize the file size for print-
ing or publishing online.
If you are upgrading from Access 2003
In addition to the features listed in the previous sections, if you're upgrading from
Access 2003, you'll want to take note of the following features that were introduced
in Access 2007:
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The ribbon
The user interface organizes the most common commands for any data-
base object into tabs and groups so that the appropriate commands are immediately
accessible for the current object.
▪
Quick Access Toolbar
Customize a portion of the toolbar to include commands you
regularly use, regardless of which object is currently active.
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Navigation pane
The customizable Navigation pane replaces the Database window
from Access 2003. Display or hide all tables, queries, forms, reports, macros, and mod-
ules, or create a custom group that displays only the objects you want to work with
at the moment. You can even hide the Navigation pane to make more room on the
screen for your database object.
