Hi Karl

I don't understand why you are not prepared to have data Validation on cell
D4.

Apply DV and set it to allow Whole Number between Minimum 0 and Maximum 50
Set the message on the error alert tab to something like
"The value in this cell must be less than 50"

There will be no dropdown on the cell, but if anyone tries to enter a value
greater than 50, they will be prevented and your message will pop up.
--
Regards
Roger Govier

"karl" wrote in message
...
hello,

i need to set up an "indirect" error alert using DATA VALIDATION. please
refer to the following link http://www.freefilehosting.net/download/3h8gj
details are provided in the uploaded file.

thank you,
karl