split db + odbc

[TheShabz]

Hi all,



I am working on a project for my group that involves creating a multi-user split db that has linked tables via odbc. Now the linking will be done with my credentials. When my users go to to use this db:

1. will they need their own odbc connection?
2. if so, will there be any issue between my info having created the link vs their info and their machine accessing it?

any further info on this scenario is appreciated.

Thanks a lot everyone!

[pbaldy]

I typically create a File DSN on the server (as opposed to a User or System DSN on my PC), and link tables using that. When you link the tables (with SQL Server anyway) you're given the option to save the credentials, and I do. With that setup, users don't have to do anything, and the app will work for them just as it works for you. If you use a User or System DSN, you will have to add it to every PC.

If you want them to log in, I would try not checking the option to save the credentials and see how it works.

[TheShabz]

I have a user DSN that I use. I've tried saving the credentials then sending the mdb to another person and he couldn't login. he didnt have a DSN of his own. Was the problem that a DSN was nonexistent or that it wasnt MY DSN that was being used?

[pbaldy]

Like I said, a User or System DSN has to be created on every PC. I'm lazy, so I use the File DSN, which only has to be created once. If you want to stick with the User DSN, you or he need to add it to his PC, with the exact same name.

To summarize, User and System DSN's are machine specific, a File DSN works anywhere on the network. You can look up DSN in help; 2007 has a pretty good description of them.

[TheShabz]

IT red tape prevents me from making things simple and using a system DSN. I'll ask but I doubt it will happen. In the meantime, what do you mean by "exact same name"? do you mean the name that its saved as or the username/password for the SQL Server credentials?

[pbaldy]

I mean the name it is saved as. I don't think Access cares if the same credentials are used, but the name of it must match exactly.

[Access_Blaster]

Nice tip pbaldy, I am also facing a similar situation with multiple network logons. I will check out a DSN file.