Performance Tips To Speed Up Your Access 2007 Database

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Summary: This article outlines specific performance tips that you can use to improve the speed of your Microsoft Office Access 2007 applications. Some of the tips might contradict other tips, but they are offered because bottlenecks differ in each situation. Some tips might make things run faster on your system, while others degrade performance. You should evaluate each tip as it applies to your specific application running on your specific hardware. Good luck! (21 printed pages)

Dan Haught, Executive Vice President of FMS, Inc., and Luke Chung, President of FMS, Inc.

August 2009

Applies to: 2007 Microsoft Office System, Microsoft Office Access 2007

Contents

  • Table Performance Tips

  • Linked Databases and Linked Tables

  • SQL Server and ODBC Performance Tips

  • Database Performance Tips

  • Query Performance Tips

  • Form Performance Tips

  • Report Performance Tips

  • Macros Tips

  • Access Module/VBA Performance Tips

  • Data Access Objects (DAO) Programming Tips

  • Jet Engine Tuning Tips

  • Access Startup Tips

  • Multiuser Performance Tips

  • Computer Performance Tips

  • Windows Performance Tips

  • Conclusion

  • Additional Resources from Microsoft

  • About the Authors

Table Performance Tips

Normalize Your Tables

Normalize your data so the same data is stored only in one place. Remember that time is also a dimension and you might need to store historic data as well. Read Data Normalization Fundamentals for more detail.

Every Table Should Have a Primary Key

Every table in your database should have a primary key. This allows your database application to quickly locate specific records. Additionally, you cannot create secondary indexes on a table's fields unless that table has a Primary Key.

Primary Key Should be One Field and Numeric

The primary key should only be one field and ideally numeric and meaningless. Primary keys define the uniqueness of each record, which can be accomplished efficiently with a single number. The easiest method is to use an AutoNumber field in Access or an Identity column in SQL Server. The primary key is also used in each secondary index for that table, so the smaller the better. Multi-field primary keys and non-numeric text fields are less desirable.

That said, some tables should use text fields as primary keys because they don't change much and the tables are relatively small. For example, a list of countries or states is a good candidate because there is no need to create a separate number for each country or state.

Having a meaningless primary key means that the index is stable even when data changes. Otherwise, changes in the primary key have a ripple effect through each secondary index and any other tables bound by referential integrity.

Tables Should Participate in Relationships

Related tables with one-to-one or one-to-many relationships should implement referential integrity with cascading deletes and/or updates to ensure orphan records are not created. With cascading deletes, the removal of the parent record automatically deletes the child records in the corresponding table. Access (the Jet Engine) automatically takes care of this for you without the need to write any code, which is great for maintaining data integrity.

With a relationship established, a hidden index is created for the foreign key, so links between those tables are faster in queries. The link is also automatically drawn for you when you put the two tables on your query designer.

Eliminate Unnecessary Subdatasheets

By default, Access creates subdatasheet views between related tables. This is nice if you want it, but is a huge performance hit every time you open the table. Set this property to None if you don't want it. Here is more information on the Subdatasheet Name Property.

Choose the Optimal Data Types

Choose the best data types for your fields. By choosing the optimal data type, you can decrease both the disk space used to store data, and the time it takes Access to retrieve, manipulate, and write data. The general guideline is to choose the smallest data type possible to store a particular type of data.

Add Secondary Indexes as Necessary

If your tables are large and you search on a field or use it in a join, create a secondary index on the field(s). Secondary Indexes offer performance gains on an order of magnitude.

Don't Over-Index

Just as it is important to add indexes to fields that need it, it is important to avoid indexing fields that don't need it. Every index adds to the time it takes the database engine to update, delete and add records.

Don't Index Fields with Lots of Identical Data

Don't apply indexes to fields that contain much the same data. For example, indexing a Yes/No field is almost always a performance degrading operation. Similarly, if you have a number field that only contains two or three values, an index wouldn't be a good idea. To check the number of unique entries in an index, use the Access DistinctCount property. Compare this value to the number of records in the table and you can quickly see if the index is doing you any good.

Keep Indexes As Small As Possible

When creating a multi-field index, index only as many fields as are absolutely necessary.

Linked Databases and Linked Tables

Keep an Open Handle to Every Linked Database

You can significantly increase the performance of opening tables, forms, and reports that are based on linked tables by having Microsoft Access keep the linked table's database open. To do this, open a Database variable in Visual Basic code by using the OpenDatabase method. Keep this variable open as long as your application is running. This forces Access to keep that database open, making access to linked tables much faster.

For more information, see Increasing the Performance of Linked Databases.

Minimize Record Navigation

Avoid record navigation wherever possible on linked tables. Only use the PageUp and PageDown movements, and the Move last movements when absolutely necessary.

Use DataEntry Mode

If you are only going to be adding records, use the DataEntry command on the Records menu. This data access method is more efficient for adding records because existing records are not read from the database.

Create a Data Entry Form

If you often add new records to a linked table, consider creating an "Add Records" form and set that form's DataEntry property to Yes. This prevents Access from attempting to retrieve all the existing records in a linked table when you need to add new records.

Limit the Data Returned by Queries

Limit the number of fields and records returned by using filters or queries. This reduces the amount of data that needs to be read from the linked table, thereby according faster performance.

Don't Use Domain Aggregate Functions

If a query is based on one or more linked tables, avoid using functions (built-in or user-defined) or domain aggregate functions in the query criteria. When you use domain aggregate functions such as DLookup), Access must fetch all records in the function's data source to execute the query.

Release Locks ASAP

To improve multi-user concurrency, assume that other users will try to edit data in the same linked tables that you use. In other words, keep records locked only as long as is necessary.

SQL Server and ODBC Performance Tips

If you are going to be accessing a SQL database table, link the table permanently. This makes opening that table much faster in subsequent attempts. This is because linked tables cache a lot of information about the source table in your database, making the retrieval of the same structural information unnecessary after the linked table is created.

Minimize Server Traffic

Minimize the amount of data returned from the server. Do this by structuring your queries to return only the fields and records needed. Reduce the number of fields returned, and put constraints on the query by using the WHERE clause.

Use Snapshots When Appropriate

Don't open Dynaset type recordset object on SQL database tables unless you need to add or edit records, or need to see the changes made by other users. Instead, consider using Snapshot recordsets, which can be faster to scroll through. Of course, Snapshot recordsets can take longer to open since they require a full read of the source data.

Use Dynasets for Large Record Sets

If you need to retrieve a large number of records, use a Dynaset instead of a Snapshot. Snapshot type recordsets must load all records from the data source before becoming available, whereas Dynasets are available as soon as the first 20 or so records are retrieved. Also, when using a Snapshot against large ODBC data sources, you run the risk of running out of disk space on your local computer. This is because all data is downloaded into RAM until the amount of RAM is exhausted. Then, the database engine creates a temporary database to store the contents of the snapshot. In a nutshell, when you open a snapshot, you need at least as much disk space as the largest table you are opening.

Take Advantage of the Cache

Use cache memory wherever possible when using external SQL data sources. Microsoft Access forms and reports have automatic caching mechanisms. When you use recordsets in your Visual Basic code, use the CacheStart, CacheEnd, and FillCache methods to maximize cache effectiveness.

Don't Force Local Query Processing

Don't use query constructs that cause processing to be done by Access on the local computer. The following query operations force the Jet database engine to perform local data processing:

  • Join operations between tables that are linked to different data source (that is, a join between a SQL table and a linked Access table).

  • Join operations based on query that uses the DISTINCT keyword, or a query that contains a GROUP BY clause.

  • Outer joins that contain syntax that is not directly supported by the remote database server.

  • The LIKE operator used with Text or Memo fields

  • Multi-level grouping and totaling operations

  • GROUP BY clauses that are based on a query with the DISTINCT keyword, or the GROUP BY clause.

  • Crosstab queries that have more than one aggregate, or that have field, row, or column headings that contain aggregates, or that have an ORDER BY clause

  • User-defined functions, or functions that are not supported by the remote server

  • Complex combinations of INNER JOIN, LEFT JOIN, or RIGHT JOIN operations in nested queries.

Use FailOnError for Bulk Updates

If you use bulk update queries, optimize performance on the remote server by setting the FailOnError property of the Querydef object, or query to Yes.

Use ODBCDirect

ODBCDirect gives you almost direct access to server data through ODBC. In many cases, it is a faster and more flexible way to hit server data than that traditional Jet/Linked table technique.

Database Performance Tips

Split Your Database into Two Databases

You can improve performance and application maintainability by splitting your Access database into two databases. The "application" part of your database holds all objects except tables, and is linked to the "data" part that contains the actual tables. For more information, read Splitting Microsoft Access Databases to Improve Performance and Simplify Maintainability.

Use a Current Workgroup Information File

If you are using a workgroup information file (SYSTEM.MDA) created with a previous version of MS Access, convert it to the current version of Access for optimum performance.

Use the Access Performance Analyzer

Microsoft Access has a useful performance tool built right into the product. From the Tools menu, select Analyze, Performance. Use the Performance Analyzer to select all objects or specific objects, and then run an analysis that looks for potential problems. The Performance Analyzer does not find all of the items that Total Access Analyzer does, but it does offer some tips.

Run the Access Table Analyzer

The Access Table Analyzer makes it easy to properly normalize the data in your tables by breaking tables with repeated or improperly structured data into two or more tables. This tool is available from the Access Tools, Analyze menu

Reduce the Size of Graphics in your Access 2007 Databases

If you embed graphics on your forms or reports, Access 2007 can store them much more efficiently. Access 2007 can convert graphics into much smaller PNG formats to significantly reduce the size of your databases. This does not affect graphics already on your forms and reports but helps if you add new graphics or replace existing ones. To activate this feature, change an Access setting. From the Microsoft Office button, choose Access Options, Current Database. At the bottom of the Application Options section, set the Picture Property Storage Format to Preserve source image format (smaller file size).

Compact Your Database Often To Reclaim Space

Compacting your database reclaims unused space and makes almost all operations faster. You should do this on a regular basis. Also, be sure to compact anytime you import or delete objects in your database, or compile and save VBA code.

Learn more about Total Visual Agent for a system administrative tool to schedule compact and backup your Access databases on a regular schedule.

Make It Look Faster

If you have exhausted all other performance optimization techniques, consider making your application "look" faster. Do this by displaying status messages and progress meters as your application loads forms, runs queries, and performs any other operation that might take a bit of time. While this doesn't make your application run faster, it appears to run faster.

Query Performance Tips

Compact Often to Update Statistics

Compact the database often. When you compact the database, you reorganize records so that they are stored in adjacent spaces, making retrieval faster. Additionally, compacting a database updates its data statistics, which can be used by a query to run faster. You can force a query to recompile (which in turn causes it to use the latest statistics) by opening it in design view, saving it, and then running it.

You might want to defragment your disk by using a program such as the Disk Defragmenter that is part of Windows before you compact your database. This leaves contiguous free disk space immediately after the database file. In theory, this makes future additions to the database occur faster. You might want to experiment with this on your system.

Index Query Criteria Fields and Join Fields

Index any fields in the query that are used to set criteria. Index the fields on both sides of a join. Alternatively, you can create a relationship between joined fields, in which case an index is automatically created.

Search Access Help for “Index”.

Use Identical or Compatible Datatype in Join Fields

Fields that are joined in a query should have the same data type, or compatible data types. For example, the Long Integer data type is compatible with the AutoNumber data type.

Limit Fields Returned by a Query

Where possible, limit the number of fields returned by a query. This results in faster performance and reduced resource usage.

Avoid Calculated Fields and IIF Functions

Avoid calculated fields, or fields that use expressions in subqueries. Pay special care to avoid the use of immediate If (IIF) functions in sub-queries.

Don't Use Non-Indexed Fields for Criteria

Avoid using non-indexed fields or calculated fields for criteria restrictions.

Index Sort Fields

Index any fields you use for sorting. Be careful not to over-index.

Use Temporary Tables to Eliminate Running the Same Queries Over and Over

If you are processing data that is used multiple times (on multiple reports for example), it might be faster to store intermediate results in temporary tables rather than running a series of Select queries many times. Create a temporary table to store your results. Empty the table and fill it with your data by using an Append query. You can then use that table for multiple reports and forms.

Avoid Domain Aggregate Functions on Foreign Tables

Do not use domain aggregate functions (DLookup for example) in queries to access data from a table that is not in the query. Link to the table and set criteria accordingly, or create a separate aggregate (totals) query.

Use Fixed Column Headings in Crosstab Queries

Wherever possible, use fixed column headings in your crosstab queries with the PIVOT syntax.

Use BETWEEN Rather than >= and <=

Between lets the search engine look for values in one evaluation rather than two.

Use Count (*) To Count Records

If you use the Count function to calculate the number of records returned by a query, use the syntax Count(*) instead of Count([fieldname]). The Count(*) form is faster because it doesn't have to check for Null values in the specified field and won't skip records that are null.

Compile Each Query before Delivering Your Application

When you compact your database, its data statistics are updated. When you then run a query, these updated statistics are compiled in the query's execution plan. This sequence of events results in the fastest possible query. Before you deliver your application, compact the database, and then force each query to be recompiled. You can force a query to recompile (which in turn causes it to use the latest statistics) by opening it in design view, saving it, and then running it.

Take Advantage of Rushmore Query Optimization

Microsoft Jet uses Rushmore query optimization whenever possible. Rushmore is applied to queries run on native Access data, and on linked FoxPro and dBASE tables. Other linked data types do not support Rushmore optimization. To ensure that Rushmore optimizations are used, create indexes on all fields that are used to restrict a query's output. If you have queries that don't contain indexes on fields used in the query's restriction clause, Rushmore is not used.

To make queries run faster, you should have indexes on all fields in the query that join, restrict, or sort the data. Whenever possible, link on Primary Key fields instead of other fields. Indexes are most critical on tables with large numbers of records, so you might not see a difference on small tables. You also don't need to add secondary indexes on fields that are part of referential integrity.

Experiment with One-to-Many Restrictions

If you have a one-to-many join in a query with a restriction, try moving the restriction to the other side of the join. For example, if the restriction is on the many side, move it to the one side. Compare performance results for both versions, and choose the fastest one.

De-Normalize If Necessary

Although you should strive to normalize your data for best performance and future flexibility, consider denormalizing some of your data if you frequently run queries with joins that would benefit from such data restructuring.

Experiment with Sub Queries Instead of Joins

If you have a query with a join that is not performing adequately, consider replacing the join with a sub query. In some cases, the sub query might cause the overall query operation to run faster.

Limit the Number of Fields Returned by Each Query

Where possible, queries should use a Where clause to constrain, or limit, the number of records returned. This results in faster performance and reduced resource usage.

Form Performance Tips

Save the SQL of the Form RecordSource as a Query

We've seen situations where a saved query loads significantly faster than the same SQL string stored as the RecordSource of a form. Somehow, saved queries are optimized more than the SQL string behind the report.

Close Unused Forms

Close forms that aren't being used. Every form that is open uses memory that could be used by other parts of your applications.

Open Forms Hidden

Consider opening your application's most commonly used forms when your application starts. Set their Visible properties to False, and then make them Visible as needed. This frontloads some performance hits to the application load event, making forms load faster when needed.

Use the DataEntry Property of a Form

If a form's record source (the table or tables accessed by the form's RecordSource property) contain a large number of records, and the form is primarily used to add new records, set the DataEntry property of the form to Yes. This precludes Access from having to retrieve existing records when the form loads.

Don't Sort a Form's Recordset

Avoid sorting records in a form's underlying record source unless a particular presentation order is absolutely necessary for the form. This makes the form load faster.

Base Forms on Queries-Minimize Fields Returned

Base forms and subforms on queries instead of tables. Then, you can use the query to restrict the number of fields returned, making the form load faster.

Use Lightweight Forms

Consider replacing Visual Basic code in a form's module with calls to standard modules, or with hyperlink objects. Then set the form's HasModule property to False. This turns the form into a Lightweight form, making it load faster. Search Access online help for "Lightweight Forms" for more information. In Access 2007, you can use embedded macros for simple operations.

Index all fields in the subform that are linked to the main form. Also index all fields in the subform that are used for criteria.

Set Editing Properties on SubForms

Set the subform's AllowEdits, AllowAdditions, and AllowDeletions properties to No if the records in the subform aren't going to be edited. Or set the RecordsetType property of the subform to Snapshot.

Reduce the Number of Fields in ListBox and ComboBox Row Sources

In the RowSource property of list box and combo box controls, include only the fields that are necessary.

Set AutoExpand on ComboBoxes to No

Set the AutoExpand property of combo boxes to No if you don't need the "fill in as you type" feature.

First Field of an AutoExpand ComboBox Should Be Text

In a combo box that has the AutoExpand property set to Yes, the first displayed field should be a Text data type instead of a Number data type. In order to find matches, Access needs to convert numeric values to text. If the data type is Text, this conversion can be skipped.

Optimize Bound ComboBoxes

If the bound field in a lookup combobox is not the displayed field, don't use expressions for the bound field or the displayed field, don't use restrictions (the WHERE clause) in the row source, and use single-table row sources wherever possible.

Move Linked Data Local for ComboBox and ListBox Controls

If the data that fills a list box or combo box does not change often, and that data comes from a linked table, consider moving that data's table into the local database. This can be a huge performance boost, especially if the linked table is located on a network drive.

Group Controls on Multiple Pages

Consider grouping controls on multiple pages. When the form loads, prepare only the controls on the form's first page. Defer operations on other page's controls, such as setting the record source until the user moves to that page. This makes the form load faster.

For more information, read Late Binding of Subforms on Tab Controls

Close Forms That Contain Unbound OLE Objects

Close forms that contain unbound OLE Objects when they are not in use. When you activate an unbound OLE objects, the memory used in that operation is not released until the form is closed.

Convert Subforms to Listbox or Combobox Controls

Where possible, convert subforms to listbox or combobox controls. It is far quicker to load a control than it is to load an additional form as a subform.

Move Form Module Code to a Standard Module

You can reduce a form's load time by moving its code from the form module to a standard module. When the form loads, the form's module doesn't need to be loaded. Of course, the standard module needs to be loaded at some point, but once a standard module is loaded, it stays in memory until you close the database.

Avoid Unnecessary Property Assignments

Set only the properties that absolutely need to be set. Properties assignments can be relatively expensive in terms of performance. Review your form's startup code to ensure that you are not setting any form or control properties that don't need to be set.

Use the Requery Method Instead of the Requery Action

Use the Requery method instead of the Requery action. The method is significantly faster than the action.

Give Visual Feedback

Give the user some visual feedback during long operations. Consider using status meters to display the progress of a task. At a minimum, use the Hourglass cursor along with a status message.

Hyperlinks in label controls make it easy to open another Access object. So instead of placing command buttons on your forms to do common operations, investigate the possibility of using a label control with the Hyperlink properties. This approach eliminates the need for a command button, and its associated event code.

Split Forms Into Multiple Pages

Consider using multi-page forms, separated by the page-break character. This allows you to present only the controls needed, and can reduce form-load time. For example, if your form has 10 combobox controls that take a long time to fill, split the form into multiple pages by using the PageBreak control. Then, pick the 5 combobox controls the user is most likely to use and place them on the first page. Place the remaining controls on the second page. Load time for the form should be substantially reduced, especially if the queries filling those combo box controls are complex.

Minimize the Number of Controls

Minimize the number of controls on your form. Loading controls is the biggest performance hit when loading a form.

Avoid Overlapping Controls

Avoid overlapping controls. It takes Access more time to render and draw controls that overlap each other than it does non-overlapping controls.

Use Graphics Sparingly

Use bitmap and other graphic objects sparingly as they can take more time to load and display than other controls.

Use the Image Control

Use the Image control instead of unbound object frames to display bitmaps. The Image control is a faster and more efficient control type for graphic images.

Report Performance Tips

Save the SQL of the Report RecordSource as a Query

We've seen situations where a saved query loads significantly faster than the same SQL string stored as the RecordSource of a report. Somehow, saved queries are optimized more than the SQL string behind the report.

Don't Sort Report Queries

Don't base reports on queries that use an ORDER BY clause. Access reports use their Sorting and Grouping settings to sort and group records; the sort order of the underlying record set is ignored.

Avoid Expressions and Functions in Sorting and Grouping

Try to avoid reports that sort or group on expressions or functions.

Index Fields Used In Sorting and Grouping

Index any fields that are used for sorting or grouping.

Base Reports on Queries-Minimize Fields Returned

Base reports and subreports on queries instead of tables. By using a query, you can restrict the number of fields returned to the absolute minimum number, making data retrieval faster.

Index all the fields used to link a subreport to a report.

Index Subreport Fields Used for Criteria

Index all subreport fields used for criteria. This will cause the subreport to link its records faster. Of course, remember that over-indexing can cause performance bottlenecks when editing, adding and deleting data.

Avoid Domain Aggregate Functions in a Report's RecordSource

Do not use domain aggregate functions (such as DLookup) in a report's Recordsource property. This can have a significant performance impact on how long it takes the report to open and display pages.

Use the NoData Event

Use the report's NoData event to identify empty reports. You can then display a message and close the report. This is easier than running a separate process to see if data exists for the report.

Avoid Unnecessary Property Assignments

Set only the properties that absolutely need to be set. Properties assignments can be relatively expensive in terms of performance. Review your form's startup code to ensure that you are not setting any form or control properties that don't need to be set.

Eliminate Unnecessary Reports

If a sub report is based on the same query as its parent report, or the query is similar, consider removing the sub report and placing its data in the main report. While this is not always feasible, such changes can speed up the overall report.

Limit the Number of Controls on Reports

Minimize the number of controls on your report. Loading controls is the biggest performance hit when loading a report.

Avoid Overlapping Controls

Avoid overlapping controls. It takes Access more time to render and draw controls that overlap each other than it does non-overlapping controls.

Minimize Bitmap Usage

Use bitmap and other graphic objects sparingly as they can take more time to load and display than other controls.

Use the Image Control

Use the Image control instead of unbound object frames to display bitmaps. The Image control is a faster and more efficient control type for graphic images.

Macros Tips

Convert Macros to Visual Basic Code

Convert macros to Visual Basic code. In almost all cases, Visual Basic code runs faster than macros.

Access Module/VBA Performance Tips

Make an MDE File

If possible, make an MDE file out of your database. An MDE file cannot become decompiled, so your Visual Basic code always runs at top speed. Additionally, since no source code is stored in the MDE file, the database loads faster and uses less memory.

Achieve the Compiled State

Module code is saved in two states in your Access database: the source state, and the compiled state. The source state consists of the contents of your actual modules, with full text including white space, procedure and variable names, and comments. The compiled state is the executable version of your code. All comments and white space have been removed, and a stream of executable instructions has been produced so that the code is ready to run. The difference between these two states can cause your application to run very slowly if you don't understand them.

When you run a procedure, VBA checks to see if the module that contains the procedure is compiled. If it is, VBA simply runs the code. If it is not compiled, VBA compiles it by loading the code into memory, performing a syntax check, and compiling it into an executable format. If all these operations succeed, it can then run the code. The problem is that compiling code takes time, and compiling lots of code takes lots of time.

Thus, if you want your database to run as fast as possible, you must reduce the amount of time Access spends compiling your code to a minimum. In fact, in an ideal application, all your code should be compiled and saved in the compiled state. So how do you go about this? Your Access database (or project in VBA parlance) is said to be in a compiled state when all modules, including form and report modules, are saved in both states in the database. This means that the original source code is stored, as is the compiled version. In such a state, Access runs much faster, because it can completely bypass the compilation process.

Getting your database into the compiled state is actually rather easy:

  1. Open any module.

  2. From the Debug menu, select Compile and Save All Modules.

Your database is now in the compiled state. This includes form and report modules (called class modules using Access terminology) and standard modules. All VBA code that is called by your application is immediately ready for execution. There is no need for compilation. This is all fine and well, but is just as easy for your database to become decompiled. When you make certain changes to your database, it automatically becomes decompiled, which means that the compiled state that you created by using the previous steps no longer exists.

How to Avoid Decompilation

Any of the following actions can decompile your database:

  • Modify any module code.

  • Make changes to code-bearing objects, such as form, reports and controls, or create such code-bearing objects.

To avoid decompilation, then, avoid those actions. It’s not as bad as it seems. After all, your database does not need to be in a compiled state while you are doing development work on it; it only really requires the performance benefits of the compiled state when it is actually running on your user's workstations. Therefore, if you follow these guidelines, you can enjoy peak performance from your module code:

  • During development, do not use Compile All Modules. It is a waste of time because the first time that you make any changes to the module, it will decompile, or reverse the effect of Compile All Modules. Use the Compile Loaded Modules option instead; it compiles only the modules that are called by the modules that you have open. This is a much quicker operation, and results in the same syntax checking that Compile All Modules does.

  • When you are ready to deliver your database for testing or live use, put it into the compiled state by using the steps outlined above.

Decompile to Eliminate Old VBA Compiled States

The Compact feature compacts only the data, not the code portion of an Access database. To remove old code from the database, shrink the size of your database, and avoid the infamous Bad DLL Calling Convention error, use the /decompile command occasionally. For more information, see Decompile Your Microsoft Access Database to Fix the Bad DLL Calling Convention Error.

ActiveX Controls Should Have References

If you are using an ActiveX control, your database should have a Reference to the ActiveX (OCX) file. This allows you to use early binding to bind variables to the control's objects, making it load and run faster. In most cases, this is handled for you; when you insert an ActiveX control into a form or report, Access automatically creates a Reference for that control.

Use Option Explicit

Always explicitly declare variables. Ensure this happens in every module in your application by using the Option Explicit phrase at the top of each module.

Choose the Most Efficient Variable Type

Use the most efficient variable type possible when declaring variables. For example, don't use a Long Integer when an Integer will do. Avoid Variant types because they can be inefficient and slow.

Use Early Binding

Avoid using the Object data type. Instead use the specific data type for the object you are working with. This allows Visual Basic to employ "early binding," which can be substantially faster in many cases.

Assign Things to Object Variables

If you are going to refer to a property, control, object or data access object (DAO) more than once, assign it to an object variable.

Use the Me Keyword

Use the Me keyword instead of the Form!FormName form to refer to the form of a form's module.

Avoid the Immediate If Function if Parts Run Other Code

Use the IIf (immediate if) statement sparingly. IIf() does not employ "short-circuit" evaluation. This means that both sides of the expression are always evaluated, which might not be what you want since intuitively it looks like only the criteria satisfying side would run.

Use Dynamic Arrays

Instead of fixed arrays, use dynamic arrays with the Erase and ReDim statements to make better use of memory.

Take Advantage of Demand Loading

Organize and structure your modules to take advantage of Visual Basic's demand loading architecture. When a procedure is loaded from a module, the entire module is loaded into memory. By placing related procedures in the same module, you can reduce the number of loads the Visual Basic has to make.

Eliminate Dead Code

Eliminate unused procedures and unused variables. These elements use memory unnecessarily, and slow program load and execution. The FMS Total Access Analyzer program finds unused procedures, variables, and constants, and variables assigned but not used.

Use Constants Instead of Variables

If you are using data that is not going to change, put it in a constant instead of a variable. This allows Visual Basic to compile the value into the constant when the module is compiled, making the execution of that code faster.

Avoid Infinite Recursion

Avoid Infinite Recursion. Don't have code that can call itself without having some type of short-circuit mechanism. This can lead to "Out of Stack Space" errors.

Declare String Data Intelligently

Visual Basic allocates stack and heap memory differently according to the type of strings you create. By understanding how this works, you can write more efficient string code. String variables in procedures that are non-static use space on the computer's stack. Use the following information to write code that minimizes stack memory usage.

  • Local fixed-length strings less than or equal to 64 characters use 2 bytes for each character in the string. They don't use heap memory.

  • Local fixed-length strings longer than 64 characters use 4 bytes of stack memory for a pointer to the variable in heap memory and 2 bytes of heap memory for each character in the string.Local variable-length strings use 4 bytes of stack memory for a pointer to the variable in heap memory, and a variable amount of heap memory according to the length of the string.

  • If your code used a large number of fixed-length strings of 64 characters or less, you can reduce stack usage by changing the strings to local variable-length strings or making them static fixed-length strings.

Minimize OLE References

Every time you reference a Visual Basic object, method or property, you are initiating one or more calls the OLE's Idispatch interface. Each one of these calls takes time. Minimizing the number of such calls is one of the best ways to make your code run faster. You can minimize OLE references by doing the following:

  • Use object variables instead of directly referring to objects

  • Use the With statement and the For Each construct to minimize object references.

  • Move references to properties and methods outside of loops.

  • When you refer to a member of collection, do so with the object's index number. Referring to a collections member with a name or expression introduces extra work, and therefore, more time.

Turn Off Screen Painting

Turn off screen painting during repetitive operations that update the screen. Consider using the Application.Echo property to turn off screen painting. Depending on the type of video card in your computer, this can have moderate to dramatic effects on performance.

Don't Write Code When a Query Would Be Better

We've seen pages of VBA code written by using various recordset operations when one or a few queries would do the trick. Queries are not only faster and easier to optimize, they are easier to understand and maintain. If you're not familiar with how to use Select, Update, Delete, and Append queries in Access or SQL Server, learn them.

Close Your Database a Couple of Times a Day

VBA dynamically loads code into memory as needed on a module level. If a function is called or a variable is used, the entire module containing that function or variable is loaded into memory. As you are developing your application, you keep loading code into memory. Visual Basic for Applications does not support dynamic unloading of these modules. Because of this, RAM will begin to fill up. To boost development performance (i.e., to decrease the amount of time you spend as a developer working on your application), you might want to close the database periodically to unload the modules. Note that you do not have to close Access itself, just the database itself. However, if you have library database code loaded, you should exit Access also.

It is especially important to close your database after a Compile All Modules command. The Compile All Modules command pulls all of your code into memory. Closing and reopening the application will unload the code and enable you to develop faster because of the additional free memory.

If you are developing your application in a single-user environment, you can improve your development performance by opening the application exclusively. This allows Visual Basic for Applications to save and compile faster by eliminating multiple-user save situations.

ActiveX Controls Should Have References

If you are using an ActiveX control, your database should have a Reference to the ActiveX (OCX) file. This allows you to use early binding to bind variables to the control's objects, making it load and run faster. In most cases, this is handled for you; when you insert an ActiveX control into a form or report, Access automatically creates a Reference for that control.

Don't Use Expressions to Determine Loop Boundaries

If you use loop constructs in your VBA code such as For...Next, Do...While, and so on, don't force VBA to evaluate the boundaries of the loop each time. For example, take a look at the following code example.

    For intCounter = 0 To Forms.Count - 1
    ...
    Next intCounter

Instead of writing the code that way, write it more like the following example.

    intCount = Forms.Count - 1
    For intCounter = 0 To intCount
    ...
    Next intCounter

In the second example, VBA only has to determine the value of Forms.Count once. In the first, example, the value must be determined for each iteration of the loop.

Data Access Objects (DAO) Programming Tips

Use Seek Instead of Find

Use Seek instead of Find... whenever possible. It uses indexes more efficiently and is the fastest data access method.

Search Access Help for “Seek method”.

Use Bookmarks for Record Navigation

Whenever possible, use bookmarks to move among records instead of using the FindNext method. The Jet engine can navigate to bookmark values quicker than doing the sequential reads required by FindNext.

Use Indexed Fields for FindRecord and FindNext

If you can't use the Seek method and must use the FindRecord or FindNext methods, use them on indexed fields. These methods are much more efficient when used on a field that is indexed.

Search Access Help for “Find methods”.

Don't Use Transactions Unless Necessary

Microsoft Access lets you wrap table update code in transactions so you can rollback incomplete attempts to save data. Any code operation that adds, modifies, or deletes data can be enclosed in a transaction by using the BeginTrans...CommitTrans pair.

If you do not need to rollback your updates, you can avoid using transactions and the overhead of maintaining a rollback log.

Jet Engine Tuning Tips

Use SHOWPLAN to See Query Execution Plans

Microsoft Jet implements a cost-based query optimizer in its query engine. During the compilation process of the query, Jet determines the most effective way to execute the query. You can view this plan by using the ShowPlan registry setting.

To use this setting, use the Registry Editor that comes with your operating system and add the following key to the registry.

\\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\MICROSOFT\Jet\3.0\Engines\Debug

Under this key, add a string data type entry named JETSHOWPLAN in all capital letters. To turn ShowPlan on, set the value of this new entry to “ON”. To turn the feature off, set the value to "OFF". When the feature is on, a text file called SHOWPLAN.OUT is created (or appended to if it already exists) in the current directory. This file contains the query plans.

Tune Database Performance with Jet Registry Settings

Microsoft Jet lets you tune many new parameters to tweak the engine for the best possible performance. However, this was somewhat difficult because you could only modify these settings from their defaults by creating keys in the registry, setting them to new values, and restarting Access and/or Jet. Version 3.5 of the Jet engine makes this process a whole lot easier. These registry keys are in the following location.

\\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Jet\3.5\Engines\Jet 3.5.

Also, you can use the DAO SetOption method to set these parameters at runtime. Using SetOption causes Jet to apply the changes immediately-the changes are not stored permanently in the registry, and you do not have to restart Access. If you want to get the maximum performance out of your data operations, experiment with these settings.

For more information, search Access online help for "Customizing Windows Registry Settings for Data Access Objects."

Threads

Experiment with the Threads setting in the registry. With this setting you can increase or decrease the number of operating system threads available to the Jet database engine.

MaxBufferSize

Use the MaxBufferSize registry setting to tune the data buffer used by the Jet database engine.

UserCommitSync

Use the UserCommitSync registry setting to tune performance of explicit transactions.

ImplicitCommitSync

Use the ImplicitCommitSync registry setting to tune the performance of implicit transactions.

FlushTransactionTimeout

Use the FlushTransactionTimeout registry setting to tune the performance of asynchronous write operations.

ExclusiveAsyncDelay

Use the ExclusiveAsyncDelay registry setting to tune the performance of asynchronous mode writes to exclusively opened databases.

SharedAsyncDelay

Use the SharedAsyncDelay registry setting to tune the performance of asynchronous mode writes to databases opened for shared access.

PageTimeout

Use the PageTimeout registry setting to change the delay for checking other user's changes to the database.

LockDelay

Use the LockDelay registry setting to change how long Microsoft Jet waits between retries on locked pages in a shared database.

MaxLocksPerFile

Use the MaxLocksPerFile registry setting to tune performance by setting the maximum number of locks can be placed on a database (MDB) file. For more information, search Access online help for "Customizing Windows Registry Settings for Data Access Objects", or read this Microsoft Knowledgebase article "File sharing lock count exceeded…" error message during large transaction processing.

RecycleLVs

Use the RecycleLVs registry setting to determine how to memo, OLE and hyperlink data pages are recycled.

Use ISAMStats to See Engine Detail

Microsoft Jet contains an undocumented function called ISAMStats that shows various internal values. The syntax of the function is as follows.

    ISAMStats ((StatNum As Long [, Reset As Boolean]) As Long

In the code, StatNum has one of the following values:

Table 1. StatNum values

Value

Description

0

Number of disk reads

1

Number of disk writes

2

Number of reads from cache

3

Number of reads from read-ahead cache

4

Number of locks placed

5

Number of release lock calls

For example, to see the number of disk reads, use the following code.

    Dim lngReads As Long
    lngReads = DBEngine.ISAMStats (0, False)
    Debug.Print lngReads

To reset the number of disk reads back to 0, use the following code.

    lngReads = DDBEngine.ISAMStats (0, True)

Access Startup Tips

Remove Code from Your Startup Form

If you use a Startup form instead of an Autoexec macro, place the Visual Basic code for that form in the form's module instead of a standard module. Since Access has to load your Startup form, it will automatically load that form's module, which is generally faster than loading a standard module. This technique gives your application the appearance that it is loading faster.

Minimize Startup Form Code

Minimize the amount of code in your Startup form. You might want to defer certain operations, such as opening data access objects in code, or checking objects to a later time. This technique gives your application the appearance that it is loading faster.

Don't Use ActiveX Controls on Startup Form

Don't use ActiveX controls on your Startup Form. These controls can take long to load than other controls and will subsequently slow down the load time of your application.

Automate the Deployment of the Latest Version of Your Database

Centrally manage and simplify the automatic deployment of your Access application to each desktop. When you update your application, you want to distribute it quickly and easily. It's also important to make sure that each user is using the right version of Access. The FMS Total Access Startup program makes it easy to manage your database version and Access version by letting you distribute a simple shortcut to launch your program.

Multiuser Performance Tips

Split Your Database

Split your database into an application and data database. Place only the data database on the server, keeping the application objects such as forms, reports and queries locally, where they can load and execute faster.

Keep Static Data Local

Keep static data, such as lookup tables, on the local machine. Update the local tables as necessary from the server. For example, a lookup table containing the two-letter abbreviations for American states is not likely to change anytime soon. When such a table is used in a data entry application, it is a performance bottleneck to retrieve that data from the server every time it is needed. Instead, copy that table to your application's local database.

Set Options to Avoid Lock Conflicts

Avoid lock conflicts by setting the Refresh Interval, Update Retry Interval, Number of Update Retries, and ODBC Refresh Interval Settings in the Tools, Options menu.

Tune Jet with the Registry

Investigate the registry settings available for Access and Microsoft Jet for tuning data engine parameters. Search Access online help for "Performance" for more information on these settings

Computer Performance Tips

Increase RAM

Increase the amount of RAM on your computer. Operating systems, Office, and other programs use a lot of memory. With the cost of memory so low, you should have at least 1 GB of RAM. With sufficient RAM, Access can perform its queries entirely in RAM without the need to write temporary data to disk.

Avoid NTFS Compression

If you are using NTFS compression under Windows NT, move your Access application to a non-compressed drive. NTFS adds a significant amount of overhead during disk operations, and Access applications are very disk-intensive.

Make Sure Network Speed is Maximized

Most networks and network cards support 10/100 Mbps standards. Make sure that your machine is using the 100 and not the 10 if you're accessing data across your network.

Keep Enough Local Disk Space Free

Access requires a fair amount of disk space to operate, especially with large databases. Operations such as running large action queries, adding lots of data, importing data, and compiling and saving module code can use a lot of additional space on a temporary basis. Additionally, transactions, and compacting the database can use a lot of disk space. A good rule of thumb is to have roughly 5-10 times the size of your largest database available in free local storage.

Windows Performance Tips

Keep Databases Local

Whenever possible, keep your databases on a local drive instead of on a network drive. In almost all cases, local disk access is faster than network access.

Install Access Locally

Do not install Microsoft Access, or its related Microsoft Office components on a network. Most applications, including Access and Office perform better when run from local drives.

Open Databases Exclusively

If you are opening a database, and no other users need to use the database, open the database in exclusive mode. To do this, check the Exclusive checkbox in the Open Database dialog box.

Close Unneeded Applications

Free up memory by closing applications that you aren't using. If you are using the System Agent from the Microsoft Windows Plus Pack, consider turning it off to make more memory available for your access application.

Optimize Your Disk

Keep your disk in optimal shape by deleting unneeded files and emptying your Recycle Bin. Use a disk defragmenter such as the one found in the Windows 95 Accessories, System Tools menu.

Close Access Occasionally to Reclaim Leaked Memory

Almost all Windows applications "leak" memory. This is due to data structures, variables, and other memory consumers that are not correctly released by the application. By closing Access, you allow Windows to reclaim any leaked memory.

Install Windows Locally

The Windows operating system should be installed on a local fixed drive on your computer. Because of the number of components involved in running Windows, a network installation of Windows causes poor performance, especially for database applications.

Conclusion

Microsoft Access has provided an incredibly powerful tool for the rapid development of database systems. With this power comes complexity, and complexity can sometimes hinder performance. Use the tips in this article to get your Access applications into top shape. Here are some additional resources that might help you to create faster Access databases and/or create them in less time.

Automated Database Analysis for Best Practices

For automated analysis of your databases, check out the FMS Total Access Analyzer program, which is designed to examine every object in your database in detail, provide documentation to help you understand what's in it, how the objects interact, and offer suggestions for applying Microsoft Access Best Practices. It finds hundreds of types of errors, suggestions, and performance tips specific to your database objects.

Simplify Writing, Taking Over, and Delivering VBA Module Code

If you want to write better VBA code and do it in less time, learn about the FMS Total Visual CodeTools program, which works with Access, Office, and VB6. Total Visual CodeTools includes code builders, tools to standardize existing code (indentations, variable names, adds error handling, and so on), and tools for you to deliver more robust solutions. Learn more about the FMS Microsoft Access coding tools.

Microsoft Access Source Code Library

Why write all the code yourself? Get the FMS Total Visual SourceBook code library with 85,000+ royalty-free lines of code you can insert into your Access, Office and VB6 projects. Written exclusively for this professional code library, there's code you won't find anywhere else. For more information, see Microsoft Access code.

Microsoft Access Consulting Services from FMS

FMS also offers custom software development services. If you're in over your head or just don't have time, contact the FMS team to see how we can help you maintain, enhance, and/or migrate your Microsoft Access applications. Here's more on the FMS Microsoft Access Consulting Services.

Additional Resources from Microsoft

For more information, see the following resources:

About the Authors

Luke Chung

Luke Chung founded FMS, Inc., in 1986 to provide custom database solutions. He has directed the company’s product development and consulting services efforts as the database industry evolved. In addition to being a primary author and designer of many FMS commercial products, Luke has personally provided consulting services to a wide range of clients. A recognized database expert and highly regarded authority in the Microsoft Access developer community, Luke was featured by Microsoft as an Access Hero during the Access 10-year anniversary celebration. Luke is a popular speaker at conferences in the US and Europe, and has published many articles in industry magazines. He is a past president of the Washington, DC, chapter of the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO Network), serves on the Fairfax County School Superintendent's Community Advisory Council, and is a graduate of Harvard University with Bachelor and Master Degrees in Engineering and Applied Sciences.

Dan Haught

Dan Haught, Executive Vice President of FMS, Inc., is recognized as a software development expert and brings extensive experience building database applications using state-of-the-art technology and program management to complex client engagements. Dan has a UNIX/C programming background, and is an expert in Access, SQL Server, Visual Studio .NET, VB6, and web development. He is the primary developer of several FMS products, a speaker at industry conferences, and a contributing editor to several magazines. Dan has co-authored several books on software development, including the Microsoft Jet Database Engine Programmer's Guide (Microsoft Press). He currently leads the Advanced Systems Group at FMS, Inc. Dan joined FMS in 1992.