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Connecting a drop down list to a database
2

Connecting a drop down list to a database

Connecting a drop down list to a database

(OP)
Hi,

I have made a small database of different material types in excel. First column contains the name of the material, and the other columns are material properties.

I would like to make a drop-down list where I can choose a material and have excel automatically give the material properties in one row.

Any tips are greatly appreciated!

RE: Connecting a drop down list to a database

In Excel why not use >Data >Filter >AutoFilter

RE: Connecting a drop down list to a database

(OP)
Hi,

I have not used AutoFilter before, but a quick look at it tells me that it is not what I'm looking for.

I would like to have the small database on a seperate worksheet, and have the drop-down on another sheet.
I do not think this can be acheived using AutoFilter.

Thanks

RE: Connecting a drop down list to a database

(OP)
Hi Clyde38,

that looks great! Is it possible to use a drop down, instead of the thing you use?
If not, this is still great.

Thanks!

RE: Connecting a drop down list to a database

(OP)
By the way, how did you do it?

RE: Connecting a drop down list to a database

Look for "Form Controls".  Select the control you want to use and put it in your work sheet.  Assign the control properties by right clicking the control.

If you right click on the "List Box" in Sheet1 you can see the properties for an example.

"Form Controls" offer a few different options and I think a drop down box is one.

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RE: Connecting a drop down list to a database

(OP)
That stuff works great! Thank you very much

RE: Connecting a drop down list to a database

Assign your data (list of values) a name.

Select Range where you want list of values to appear (input cells).
Data / Validation... Allow:  List.  Source: =Listname

Turn on in-cell dropdown for the dropdown menu you want.

Turn off ignore blanks and it will not allow any entries other than the ones in the list (which will appear in dropdown)

Example attached created in 2 minutes.

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RE: Connecting a drop down list to a database

(OP)
Both your suggestions are working beautifully!
Thank you very much

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