From Old to New Release Format – Sage 50 Data Conversion

The Data Conversion Wizard helps you update your Sage 50 company data to a newer format. This process is usually required when upgrading from an older or different version of Sage 50. The wizard provides step-by-step guidance, explains each option, and outlines the results of your actions.

To bring your data up to the latest version, use the wizard and follow the instructions to complete the conversion.

Important: The Sage 50 Data Conversion Wizard only works with company data created in the same or earlier editions of Sage 50. For example, you cannot convert a Sage 50 Premium Accounting company into the entry-level Sage 50 Pro Accounting format, even if Pro is the newest release.

Before running the Data Conversion Wizard, complete the following precautionary steps:

• Turn off screen savers and antivirus software and close all other applications, including memory managers. This reduces the chance of errors and speeds up the process.
• Check available disk space. The conversion may require up to three times the size of your current company data. For example, a 6 MB company file needs at least 18 MB of free space. The file itself won’t triple in size; the extra space is only used temporarily during conversion.
• Create a backup of your company data. The wizard will create one during the process, but it’s best to make a manual backup beforehand. Always store it separately and never overwrite an existing conversion backup.

Prerequisites For SAGE 50 Data Conversion

• Create a backup of your company file to avoid data loss in case any problems arise during the data conversion.
• Open the File menu and select Properties. Note down the location and name of your company file.
• The file type for Simply Accounting Edition 7.0 or earlier is .asc.
• The file type for Simply Accounting Edition 8.0 through 2007 is .sdb.
• The file type for Edition 2008 or later is .sai.
• Make sure User Account Control (UAC) is turned off before starting the data conversion.
• To do this, go to the Control Panel and open User Accounts.
• Turn off all firewalls, antivirus, and anti-spyware programs during the conversion.
• Save your data on the local computer and run the Advanced Database Check. Then, continue with the data conversion and save the converted file in its original location.

Step-by-Step Sage 50 Data Conversion Process

Open your Sage 50 application.
The Welcome Screen will display several options:

Option 1:

• Click “Open the last company…”
• If the file shown is correct, click OK.
• A message will confirm that the data will be updated to a newer format.
• Click Next through the prompts until you reach Finish.

Option 2:

• Click “Select an Existing Company” and then click OK.
• In the Open Company window, go to the Look In field and browse to the folder where your data file is saved.
• Select the file and click OK.
• Follow the on-screen instructions, clicking Next until the process is complete.
• Finally, click Finish.

Common Issues During Sage 50 Data Conversion

• Unable to open Sage 50 after completing the conversion.
• Data conversion failure when upgrading sage 50 newer version.
• Automatic backup errors within Sage 50 during the process.
• The conversion process fails while moving to an updated release.
• Compatibility problems with older Sage 50 versions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sage 50 data conversion is an essential step when upgrading to a newer version, ensuring that your company files remain compatible and secure. By following the recommended precautions, creating backups, and using the Data Conversion Wizard correctly, you can complete the process smoothly and minimize errors. With proper preparation, the conversion not only protects your financial data but also helps you take advantage of the latest Sage 50 features and improvements.

Frequently Asked Questions