How can I repair my corrupted database files or spreadsheet files?

Because database and spreadsheet programs use extensive formatting codes, normal disk recovery programs are often unsuccessful in recovering damaged files. For this reason, staff at the Support Center walk-in location in Bloomington (in the Information Commons on the first floor of the Herman B Wells Library) will not attempt to recover damaged spreadsheet or database files. However, the following resources may enable you to recover such files.

Microsoft products (such as Excel or Access)

For information on how to repair files created with Access 2002 or later, see Microsoft Help and Support article 283849. For information on how to repair files created with Excel 2002 or 2003, see Microsoft Help and Support article 820741.

Search Microsoft Help and Support.

For help with file recovery in other Microsoft products, search the Microsoft Help and Support web site for your product name and a phrase such as damaged file or corrupt disk .

DOS or Windows computer

Note: If the corrupted DOS or Windows file is on a floppy disk, you should make a copy of the disk using the DOS diskcopy command so that you will have a backup of all information before you attempt to repair any files.

The following file recovery programs might be useful in recovering your files:

Norton Utilities FileFix

Norton Utilities FileFix attempts to repair Lotus 1-2-3 and Lotus Symphony spreadsheets and dBase (xBase) database files.

dSALVAGE Professional for databases

dSALVAGE Professional is a highly rated program for use with damaged dBase, FoxBase+, FoxPro, Clipper, and other dBase formatted files. For more information, visit the dSALVAGE web site.

PC-FILE

Use the PC-FIX program that comes with the package.

Paradox

Use the TUTILITY that comes with the package.

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