In Microsoft Access, I need to be able to add multiple lines to a subform?

In Microsoft Access, I need to be able to add multiple lines to a subform based on a record that is saved in another table. Here's the lowdown:

I have a table where I am entering required tests per an ASTM specification. There are multiple tests per each ASTM. I also have another table where I am creating a material master that I need to reference the ASTM standard (to get the required tests) but the testing requirements may differ slightly, I want to be able to use the ASTM standard tests as a "reference" to the tests that need to be conducted by the material master and add the additional information to each line - The problem that I am running into is the fact that there are multiple items per each ASTM - So I am having trouble linking the items - I need to know how to do this...Any suggestions?

2009-07-22T06:57:34Z

Actually, the more I think about it what I really want to do is copy information from the ASTM standard table into the material master table. I don't need a link between the "test information" from each table....Example:
ASTM 123 - requires a chemical, tensile, yield, proof load test.

Material Master 987 is ASTM 123 material so requires those tests but the methods that those tests are conducted are particular to each material master.

What I am trying to do is avoid having to manually look up and add these tests to each material master.

Is there a code that would run this?

Ben Beitler2009-07-21T11:45:00Z

Favorite Answer

Without being able to fully see the structure of the data tables you are using, it's difficult to give you a 100% accurate answer - but here goes!

It sounds like you need to split the data tables into smaller more 'normalised' tables.

The ASTM is one table (I understand that) which is linked to another table which are tests (good). The Material table is also linked to the ASTM table which could be one or more? Or is it a separate table?

The multi-lines you want to record is against which reference? The ASTM or the Material (via the ASTM)?

Across the ASTM/Material you need to have a combined unique reference which is the reference to the multi-line results so that it always remains distinct, unique and reference in a 'one-to-many' relationship.

As I say, it's difficult to give a complete answer and if you wish, please send more details - which I can always cast my eye over if this helps.