Works 2000: Unable to Merge Data into a Word Processor Document (253275)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Works 2000
  • Microsoft Works Suite 2000
This article was previously published under Q253275

SYMPTOMS

When you attempt to merge data in Microsoft Works 2000 from a database created in an earlier version of Microsoft Works or from a data source other than Works 2000, you may be unable to merge the data properly.

CAUSE

This behavior can occur if any of the following conditions are true:
  • A field name in the data source contains an invalid character, such as ".," "/," "#," or ">."
  • A function or formula in the data source contains an invalid or missing reference.

RESOLUTION

To work around this issue, save the data source as a comma-delimited text file, and then use Works 2000 to re-create the database:
  1. Make a backup of the original database.
  2. Open the original database in Works 2000.
  3. Write down the names of each of the fields in the database.
  4. On the File menu, click Save As.
  5. In the Save as type box, click Text & Commas (*.csv).
  6. In the Save in box, click the folder in which you want to save the new text file, and then click Save.
  7. When you are prompted to save without formatting, click OK.
  8. Close the database.
  9. In the Works Task Launcher, click the History tab.
  10. In the Name column, click the file that you saved in steps 4 through 7.

    NOTE: This file should be the first file in the list.
  11. On the File menu, click Save As.
  12. In the Save as type box, click Works DB (*.wdb).
  13. In the Save in box, click the folder in which you want to save the new database, and then click Save.
  14. In the File name box, type a new name for the file, and then click Save.

    NOTE: If you do not type a new file name, you may overwrite the original copy of your Works database.
  15. Close the database.
  16. In the Works Task Launcher, click the database that you created in steps 11 through 14.
  17. Rename the fields in the new database with the field names that you noted in step 3.

    To rename a field:
    1. On the View menu, click Form Design.
    2. On the Format menu, click Field.
    3. In the Field name box, type the correct field name, and then click OK.
  18. On the File menu, click Save.
  19. Close the database.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:7/13/2004
Keywords:kbprb kbui KB253275
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