Access 2016: Create an Input Mask
The Input Mask Wizard helps you create an input mask. An input mask restricts how data is entered into the database.
In MS Access 2016, you can use the Input Mask Wizard to create an input mask. An input mask is a set of simple rules that specifies the format in which data can be entered into a field.
For example, an input mask of (999) 000-0000 could be used to determine how phone numbers are entered. In this example, the area code is optional, but the rest of the number is must be entered. This is because, with any input mask, a 9 specifies an optional number, a 0 specifies a mandatory number.
Using the Input Mask Wizard
We're now going to apply an input mask to the ReleaseDate field of our Albums table. Our input mask will ensure that users enter each album's realease date in the correct format.
Our Input Mask Explained
We just created an input mask that looks like this: 99->L<LL-0000
This specifies how the date should be entered. Here's an break down of each part:
- The 99 part defines two optional numbers (i.e. for the day). So the user has a choice of entering that part of the date. But if they do, it must be a number.
- The >L specifies that the user must enter an uppercase letter for that part of the date.
- The <LL specifies two lowercase letters for that part of the date.
- The 0000 specifies four numbers for that part of the date.