Rule no. 1: Never, never, NEVER use an index expressions which makes a reference to another table
Rule no. 2: If you really need an index expressions which makes a reference to another table, see rule no. 1.

>We have a table that has an index that makes reference to another table (alias), this index is designed to work when both tables are open. However, we want to be able to open our table without having to always having the other referenced table also open, as we do not always need to use the index.
>
>This was possible under all previous versions of VFP, but is not longer possible under VFP 9. After delivering the expected "Alias not found" error when trying to open the table VFP 9 does not carry and open it despite the error (previous versions would open the table).
>
>Does anyone know of a setting that can be used to overcome this problem? I have tried SET TABLEVALIDATE TO 0, but that makes no difference.
>
>Thanks
>Chris Palmer