Want to use iPad to enter data directly into database

There's not going to be any way to have direct entry into an Access database without a network connection, and I'm not sure about direct entry into an Access database at all, Access being a Microsoft-proprietary technology. There are a number of database and forms apps for the iPad, and it's possible that one of them might output in a format that could be imported into the Access database. That would allow your field people to collect the data without needing to be connected to a network, though they'd have to connect at some point to offload the data file for import.

Something like Stoerit Pro might work, though that particular app doesn't get good reviews. Search the iTunes Store for "forms" or "database" and you'll find other possibilities, and perhaps someone else here will have a recommendation.

Hope this helps.

When I was using Access, I used an App called Database Viewer Plus, which can be used to add data to an Access database. I only used it on the iPhone, but note there is an iPad version. It isn't cheap though.

From memory, if you don't have internet access where you are it will save any changes you make and sync them later. It would probably do what you are looking at, but I suspect there are cheaper solutions than the iPad for what you are trying to do.

personally, i would recommend filemaker pro in the office and filemaker go for your iPad... it is cross platform (works with windows xp, vista, and 7, Mac OSX 10.5+, iPad, and iPhone) it is easier to set up than access (it requires absolutely no programming knowledge), and would do exactly what you want...

Actually, you have several questions stated or implied in your post.

First, if in fact you want/need real-time online interaction between your iPad and some central server (for example, to validate data being entered against a central database), you would indeed need either a wireless connection or 3G.

If you don't need a real-time online interaction, then you have several routes to go (but Access is NOT one of them, at least not on your iPad, since there is no "Access-capable" app for the iPad). celliott147's suggestion to use Filemaker on both your iPad and your desktop is a good one. But there's also a much simpler and less expensive solution as well.

Just create an Excel spreadsheet on the iPad using one of the apps that does so (Documents to Go, Quick Office, or Office2 HD). Capture your data into the Excel spreadsheet, and then import the file to your desktop where you have your existing Access database. Access itself allows you to import Excel spreadsheets, so you can update your Access database this way. Good luck.

Frothi - Formotus just announced that its custom forms for data collection in the field are coming soon to iPad. This might be a good approach for your building inspection scenario, because it works offline for data collection then submits the data straight to SharePoint when a connection (3G or WiFi) is available. It's cross-platform, not just for iPad, so you may want to check it out. Here is the news release with more info:

http://formotus.com/downloads/Formotus%20Announces%20iPhone%20Support.pdf

BTW, I'm new here probably should disclose that I do work for Formotus, so I'd be happy to answer any technical questions about it.

-Glen

Thanks KeithJenner for using and mentioning "Database Viewer Plus".

Frothi, As "KeithJenner" has already used our "Database Viewer Plus" which directly synchronizes with MS Access. "Database Viewer Plus" will allow you to collect field data while conducting energy audits of buildings around the city and update it wirelessly in your Access database directly.

Even if iPad is without 3G when you don't have wireless access in buildings, you can work with your data on iPad and later changes can be submit to your Access database when 3G is available.

Advantage of "Database Viewer Plus" is that you have to just select your MS Access database tables and sync from iPad. "Database Viewer Plus" has additional feature of Forms. Design Forms for your Energy audits and let the user use those forms on iPad.

Also Enterprise version provides controlled data access (Role base Access Control) for field employees via iPhones , iPads , Blackberries, Android phones, Symbian.

Try the Lite version from the following link.
http://www.cellica.com/ipadwdbvpLite.html

If you have any question about "Database Viewer Plus", You can write us at support@cellica.com

I am so exciting to install this application to my iPad and also install Wireless Database Viewer Plus Lite to my pc. Unfortunately, "problem in internet connection, if you using proxy server then select "use proxy server" option" appeared during the installation.Could you help me to solve this problem? Many thanks.

You can use "Database Viewer Plus" using Wi-Fi also. So when ever you will be in Wi-Fi zone, just synchronize your data with MS Access database.