PROBLEM
I'd like to be able to use a "test" copy of our database and a
"live" copy of our database that I will only update after going through
the "test" to verify our data is good, it works, etc. I understand that
I can use the Linked Table Mgr to sort of go back and forth. Is there a
faster way to do this? Specifically, can I get desktop icons to point
to our test database and our live database?
RESOLUTION
Yes...The link is stored in the front-end (ie DbM_fe.mdb). The frontend name can be changed (ie DbM_fe_live.mdb). Make a copy and call it DbM_fe_test.mdb. Make a desktop shortcut for each. Then, link each frontend to the appropriate backend. Remember that once opened, you will not be able to tell which frontend( and thus backend) you are connected to except via: admin > linked table manager
NOTE: the backend can have any legitiamate Access name: DbM_be_live.mdb, Playground.mdb etc. Most users find it easier to switch back and forth from one data file to another via the Admin > link to database backend.