In mail merge, when I attempt to select the excel file, it brings up a window
called "Data Link Properties." It automatically selects "Microsoft Jet 4.0
OLE DB Provider." When I click "test connection" it gives the message "Test
connection failed because of an error in initializing provider. Catastrophic
failure." This causes word to shut down.




Any HELP would be GREAT!

THx
Russ

Attached Images

EXCEL_CONNECT_FAILED_JAN2011.jpg (61.9 KB, 15 views)

Hi Russ,

Try repairing Office (Word Options|Resources|Diagnose).

If that doesn't work, I'd suggest going though the process outlined at: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/921541

__________________
Cheers,
Paul Edstein
[Fmr MS MVP - Word]

I did this process:
1) Open MS-Word
2) Click Tools menu
3) Click Options menu
4) Click General tab
5) Click so there is a check mark in the box “Confirm conversion at open”
6) Close MS-Word
7) Then when doing the merge selection select .xls as type

That process has nothing to do with correcting a system problem (per the link I gave you). All you've done is to use an older form of mailmerge connection that is severely limited in comparison to the OLEDB connection provider. The original problem hasn't been solved.

__________________
Cheers,
Paul Edstein
[Fmr MS MVP - Word]