(3/17/93) Answers to questions on the MS Access Runtime.

Q1. What is the Runtime for MS Access?

A1. The MS Access Runtime will allow developers to package and 
distribute their applications without requiring their users to 
purchase the full MS Access product.  The runtime allows unlimited 
distribution of the runtime with their MS Access applications and will 
be available as part of the Microsoft Access Distribution Kit.

Q2. When will it be available?

A2. Look for it in the second quarter, 1993. 

Q3. How much will it cost?

A3. It'll cost $495. 

Q4. Will the requirements be the same as for MS Access?

A4. In general, yes.  The runtime version will require the same amount 
of memory (RAM) and run on the same environment.  The only difference 
is that the resulting application may require less disk space (there 
will not be any sample applications, Cue Cards, etc.)

Q5. What if I want to distribute an application before Q2 '93?

A5. Currently your application users would need to have the full 
product.  

Q6. Will the Runtime create a standalone EXE?

A6. Not exactly.  With Windows, there's no need to create .EXE files-- 
other substitutes serve the same purpose.  The Access Distribution Kit 
will create a program manager icon that will launch the runtime 
version of MS Access and your database application.  Your users will 
not be able to tell that the application was created using MS Access-- 
the "splash screen" will be suppressed, you'll be allowed to set the 
title bar, etc.

Q7. How will the Access Distribution Kit be documented?

A7. The ADK will come with a fairly concise booklet outlining how to 
create and distribute your applications.  This booklet will also 
include a chapter about how to use MS Access security to protect your 
code.

Q8. What will the feature differences be between the Runtime and the 
full product?

A8. Runtime will allow the developer to hide the database container, 
it will not allow end-user access to design modes,   and will not 
display the Microsoft startup splash screen.  It will allow the 
developer to create their own icon.  There will be no additional 
functionality other than what is needed to enable the developer to 
distribute their applications.  

Q9. Will I have to change applications I am creating now to make them 
work under Runtime?

A9. In general, No.  Even though the user of a Runtime application 
will not have access to design modes, if your application uses 
DoMenuItem and Sendkeys, they should all work as they do in the full 
product without modification.  The documentation will outline any 
other changes you might want to make.

Q10. What will happen when there is a new release of Access?

A10. It is our goal to keep the full product and runtime in sync and 
release them as close together as possible.
