Best approach to updating/adding records in Access that are linked to Excel Table

[csenor]

It's been awhile since I've had to use Access. I have a roster database in Excel that I want to be able to create reports for in Access. So I linked the table in Access and created my report. What is going to happen when I add records in Excel and use Custom Sort? It looks like I am not able to add an Autonumber column in Access, because it is only a linked table. Will Access get it right? Am I able to add a primary key field to a linked table? I'm also having an issue with a phone number field in Access. The Excel table is formatted as a phone number, but when Access imported it, it won't let me add an input mask to it. (option not available) Since this database is going to grow slowly (maybe 50 additions/revisions per year), would it be better to import the Excel table once, then do something to look for updated records?

Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[strive4peace]

It would be better to use Access to maintain the data and, if you want to see it in Excel, create a link to Access.

You cannot modify the design of a linked table -- so no Autonumber and no InputMask can be done.

Sounds like you have contact information ... have a look at this free contact template.

Access Contact Template -- download link in video description
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVYnIM2oYkg