Access Database Very Slow

Question

I made an inventory database for a heavy-duty mechanic shop using Access 2013. After I test-installed it on one of the computers at the shop, it worked very quickly.

But in order for all the computers at the business to access it, I split the database into a front and back end. I copied the back end on to the network drive (in this case, just a hard drive to which all the computers are connected). Then I put a copy of the front end on to each computer and linked the tables to the back end. But when I do that, suddenly the db is extremely slow. Attempting to open some forms locks up Access. And it takes a very long time to open even the simplest window (form, report etc.).

I have saved the db in .accde format and designed all the forms to have minimal commands/functions/calculations. This has helped the slightest bit but no where near acceptable.

Just wondering if anyone has suggestions to optimize the db a bit?

Thanks in advance,

Thomas

Answer 1

What type of network are you using?  LAN, Wireless, ...?

Have you established a persistent connection between the front and back ends at startup?

Answer 2

Thanks for your reply Scott. I'm not a master at networks but I believe that the computers all go through a switch. I did establish a persistent connection and now it works like a charm. Thanks for your time!

Answer 3

I did establish a persistent connection. It takes 5-7 secs to open up the program but then it works like a charm. Thank you so much!

Answer 4

Daniel beat me to it about a Persistent Connection. But they might also need to bring in people to check their network. You stated this is a hard drive to which all computers are connected. I suspect this a USB drive plugged into a router? If so, this could be an issue. 

What is the network topography? Is it a domain based network with a server or a peer to peer that are all plugged into a switch? It certainly sounds like network traffic is the problem, not necessarily Access.

Answer 5

I believe it is a cabled LAN network. I know that this system will slow the db down a bit but not as bad as it is currently.

I have not considered a persistent connection but did read your link and it seems hopeful (it's actually a new idea to me)! I will try it tomorrow or Thursday and get back to you how it works.

Thanks for your time!

Thomas