Excel has no record locking. So, you will get this error instead of linking the Excel file, import it to an Access table. This will solve your problem.

Later, you will be able to automate the import. I do the same with my main database.

Thank you for your assistance.  Is there a way to automate the refresh without opening the BackEnd file?

Yes.

The refresh happens from inside Access.
1) Go to External Data --> New Data Source --> From file --> Excel
2) browse for the file name
3) first option "Import the Source data
4) follow the prompts
5) Save the export

now in VBA code issue the command:

DoCmd.RunSavedImportExport "Import-ResultsCSV"

Import-ResultsCSV is the name of the saved Import.

Good luck

What will fire that VBA code to run?

That is completely up to you. You can fire it from a button. Alternatively, it could be on the main menu form open or load event.

Sami,

Thank you so much for your assistance.  That worked beautifully!

Tony