Unable to open TAB files linking Access or Excel files in MapInfo Pro 64-bit

Occurrence

In 64-bit MapInfo Pro, I receive an error or crash when trying to open TAB files that linked to an Access or Excel file. Or MapInfo is simply crashing when trying to open a workspace.

Note that if you save the XSLX file in Excel as a CSV or legacy 97-03 XLS format, these still open.

Solution

This is due to Microsoft not supporting side-by-side installation of Office 32bit and 64bit versions. 
There is a workaround that has been tested with Office 2013 or Office 2016 (365) installed. If you are using Office 2010, it is recommended you upgrade to a newer supported version of Office first.

In the start menu, open the Datamine folder and find the "Access Database Fix". Run this shortcut and click OK on the prompt to apply.

Note that this fix is not permanent, and may break when Windows Update automatically updates your Office installation. If this occurs, the fix will need to be run again from time to time.


If the issues persists, please do the following -

1. Manually uninstall all versions of the Microsoft Office Access Database Engine 2010 and Microsoft Office Access Database Engine 2016 from the control panel.
2. Then run the Access Database Fix from the start menu>Datamine folder.

Note if you wish to use 32bit software you should only install the Access 20120 engine 32bit, not the 2016 version as it will conflict.


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