How to View a Saved Import Specification in Microsoft Access
Question details
The user needs to locate and view the definition of a saved import or export specification in Microsoft Access 2019, which is often referenced by the DoCmd.TransferText code.
- Product
- Microsoft Access
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Troubleshooting or modifying data import/export processes relying on DoCmd.TransferText in an Access database.
- Observed behavior
- The user is looking for the UI location or exact method to view the specific details and definitions of an existing saved import/export specification.
Ensure you have the Microsoft Access database file open and that you have the necessary permissions to view external data connections, macros, and VBA modules.
Locate Saved Imports or Exports via the External Data Ribbon
Use the built-in Access ribbon to view and manage tasks you have previously saved for importing or exporting data.
Microsoft Access saves modern import and export tasks directly in the ribbon interface. This is the first place you should check when trying to locate a specification referenced by your database tasks.
With your database open in Microsoft Access, look at the top ribbon menu and click on the 'External Data' tab.
In the 'Import & Link' or 'Export' group, click on the 'Saved Imports' or 'Saved Exports' button.
A 'Manage Data Tasks' dialog box will appear listing all saved specifications. Select the specification whose name matches the one referenced by your DoCmd.TransferText command to view its details, update the file path, or run the task.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I find my import specification in the Saved Imports list?
If the specification was created using the 'Advanced' button during a legacy text import wizard, it will not appear in the standard 'Saved Imports' list on the ribbon. You must start a new text import, click 'Advanced', and then click 'Specs' to view these legacy specifications.
How do I find the exact name of the specification used in my database?
Open your VBA editor or macro design view and locate the DoCmd.TransferText command. The specification name is typically the second argument in this command. Note the exact spelling to help you locate it in your saved tasks.
Can I edit an existing saved import specification in Access?
For modern 'Saved Imports', you can update the file path or run the task directly from the Manage Data Tasks dialog. However, modifying the intricate field mapping of legacy specifications often requires creating a completely new specification to overwrite the old one.
