OFF2000: Not a dBase Database Error Opening DBF File in dBase III/III+ (290864)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Excel 2000
  • Microsoft Access 2000
This article was previously published under Q290864

SYMPTOMS

When you open a .dbf file in dBase III/III+, the following error message appears.
Not a dBase database.
The .dbf file does not open.

CAUSE

This problem occurs when all of the following are true:
  • You are using dBase III/III+ to open the file. -and-

  • You updated the file in Microsoft Excel or Microsoft Access. -and-

  • You saved the file after December 31, 2000.
NOTE: This problem does not occur with later versions of dBase.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, use either of the following methods:
  • Use a later version of dBase to open the file. -or-

  • Use dBase III/III+ to make any changes to a .dbf file that you intend to open in dBase III/III+. dBase III/III+ can make changes to a file after 12/31/2000 and then correctly read it.

MORE INFORMATION

dBase III/III+ does not recognize the updated dBase file as valid if you edited it using a newer version of dBase or a non-dBase program after December 31, 2000. The date stored in the header of the .dbf file is incorrect in files edited after December 31, 2000. It is set as 19xx rather than 20xx. For example, if you update a .dbf file on January 1, 2001, the date in the header will be set incorrectly to January 1, 1900. For more information or to contact Borland support, visit the following Borland web site:

http://www.borland.com

The third-party products that are discussed in this article are manufactured by companies that are independent of Microsoft. Microsoft makes no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding the performance or reliability of these products.


Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:6/28/2004
Keywords:kbprb KB290864
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