MS Access 2003 - Error 3197. HELP!

[Mr. Smith]

I have an issue at work and wondered if anyone can help. We have exhausted all options thus far - the next step is involving another 3rd party at cost... I figured someone on here might be able to help!!!

There is an access database that acts as an independent system to create annual maintenance programs for independent inspections of our pressure systems (independent of our scheduled maintenance). This serves as a back up to ensure the pressure systems stay safe… These are government regulations.

I believe the file is using optimistic locking using the MS jet database engine.

Somehow IS managed no to back this up and Advantica came up with

Bad news as I suspected, the file seems to be corrupted and cannot be salvaged.

I have used the Access compact & repair functionality as well as a standalone MS application called 'Jet compact utility' . Both give the same error message indicating that the file is 'locked' and therefore cannot be opened.

The events leading up to this locking are, user1 based in the office had the database open, user2 tried to remotely login to the db locking both users out. Since this point no one has been able to open the file.

I checked with the big man and I am allowed to seek assistance etc but the data is sensitive so passing to 3rd parties is, to be avoided if possible.

You would make me a legend if someone could come up with a fix! Also, mandatory reps for this one!

I tried importing the data into excel which did not work – after entering the password for the db nothing happened!

Please help if possible!

 

[JN]

At the risk of taking the very simple approach, have you tried these things (applies to any file MSDB or other..):

- Copy (don't move) the file to another location and try opening it there.

- If the file is stored on a share hosted by a windows server, go into 'Administrative Tools>Computer Manager>Shared Folders>Open Files' on the server, and look for the file in there. If you see it, highlight it and close it's connection.

 

[Mr. Smith]

Jim,

Thanks for the swift reply.

I have tried copying the file from the server (via a wan connection - do you mean directly?)...

Just getting admin rights sorted to the server.... Might have to pick this one up tomorrow. I will let you know how it goes.

Thank you.

Also @ anyone else - any other suggestions welcomed

 

[Rastalovich]

A noteable key is to use whatever theories u`r going to undertake on a copy rather than the original (if at all possible).

However, have u tried a google for some 3rd party tool-stuff ? There`s always a chance some1 in the world has had the same issue.

 

[JN]

Jim,

I have tried copying the file from the server (via a wan connection - do you mean directly?)...

Just getting admin rights sorted to the server.... Might have to pick this one up tomorrow. I will let you know how it goes.

What I meant was just copy Q:\database.mdb to Q:\copy of database.mdb

for example and then try opening the copy. You've probably already tried it, or it might not suit your problem, but its worth a go.

There's also a program by sysinternals, can't remember it's name but its like an advanced task manager which will show you what application/process has a certain file open and can even force a close of the file handle.

 

[llwyd]

No idea if this is of any use at all as I have only scanned it:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/q182867/