Access database question?

gsmonk · 01-21-2003, 04:37 PM

I'm just curious, I know Access database files can't be on a ext2 or linux partition due to its flat file nature but can i create a FAT partition(or other win compatible partiton) on the linux box to store the file(s)? If it is possible, can it be access over the network by win clients?

Thanks,

Greg Monkus

dorian33 · 01-21-2003, 06:14 PM

First thing is: you was not forced to use any FAT partition. Return to ext2 or (better) ext3 or (the best I think) reiserfs. Secondly install samba package to see (defined by you) Linux shares with Win clients.

But the best solution is to use any "Linux-native" database like mySQL or PostgreSQL. I know that it is possible to use it with VB applications (no details, I am not familar with VB). I know nothing about Access-mySQL or Access-PostgreSQL cooperation.

gsmonk · 01-21-2003, 06:31 PM

This access database is the core part of a, rather extensive, program for a business. I dont have the expertise and/or the time to convert the database then develope a new program to operate with the newly created database. So thanks for the suggestion. But is the question i asked doable?

Thanks,
Greg

dorian33 · 01-21-2003, 06:36 PM

Yes, see first part of my post. The samba is essential. It gives you a possibility to use linux as a file server for win clients. So study it and pay attention for all the options concerning priviliges, time and (if needed) character encoding conversion.

finegan · 01-21-2003, 06:57 PM

The file system shouldn't matter, after the file has been abstracted to whatever MS wants to see on the network layer, Access will be happy. On a Samba server running ext2, ext3, reiser, xfs, ufs, jfs, hpfs, vfat, whatever, its going to be just like if it came off of some NT machine. I think you may be the victim of some FUD dude.

Like dorian pointed out, MySQL is there, and makes for a better networked DB, as soon as 25 or so users are looking at the same Access DB, which is crossloaded on both machines that are both constantly updating each other for changes... the network tends to get bogged down. There are proggies that come with MySQL to convert Access, but you made a good point, its a pain in the butt.

Cheers,

Finegan