ODBC Database Access

ODBC is a standard method of database access supported by many programs. With this optional feature, sophisticated users can gain entry into the ManageMore tables (".mdf" data files) and utilize the data for a variety of purposes. Common uses of ODBC access include: interactive voice response programs, real-time data websites, and external reporting.

ODBC allows you to obtain the information in your data files immediately. You can view the data real-time. You can also involve ODBC in custom-made software that can be used to make reports, informational web pages or other applications, such as Interactive Voice Response telephone systems that can be used to help your business.

This functionality requires the ODBC Driver Kit, an optional add-on to the program. Once received, the user will need to install the ODBC driver on each workstation that will access the data.

A database program uses many tables (files), linked together by common data fields, which make up the entire database. Even the most experienced user will need the information as to the database structure. For this reason, the driver kit includes time with technical support to be instructed on these issues.

To install the ODBC driver, the user must execute the driver installation program, called SETODBC.EXE. This program will be located in the install folder where the main program is installed.

The user will then be walked through a wizard-style setup of the ODBC driver. The driver will affect this workstation only. If you need to set the driver up on more than one workstation, you will need to run SETODBC.EXE on each workstation requiring the functionality.

The first screen basically gives a synopsis of the capabilities of the ODBC driver. Click on the Next button to continue.

On the second screen you are asked whether to connect to a ManageMore folder, or a specific ManageMore file. Once you have made your choice, click on the Next button.

Next, you will be asked for the particulars concerning the file or folder you are choosing. In the box marked Database, enter the full path filename (i.e. C:\Intellisoft\MMWIN\DATA\CUSTOMER.MDF) of the file or the folder that you want to draw information from. You may also click the button on the right of this field to explore for the file or folder.

In the Name field, you will be asked to enter a name for this ODBC entry. This name will be visible when you are importing information into another software package via ODBC or in the ODBC control panel window. This name is descriptive only and will not affect the functionality of the driver.

Once you have finished inputting the folder or file information, click the Next button.

You will then receive a message that ManageMore ODBC installation is complete. You can now use ODBC-compliant software (e.g. Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, etc.) to access your data.

Now that the ODBC drive has been installed, you can import ManageMore data into other software packages. Most software packages handle ODBC-imported data in the same way: by use of a menu item. This will usually bring up a window or series of windows that will ask for the ODBC DSN (data source). After choosing the DSN, the software package will be able to access that information.

For example, suppose you want to run an analysis of the customers in your database using Microsoft Excel. First, set up ODBC using the customer file (customer.mdf). Then import data by selecting the External Data Source menu option in Excel. Next, choose an ODBC database import, and select the DSN you created before. Finally, you would then start the import process which will bring all of the information over to your spreadsheet. The user can then remove unnecessary information and format the remainder however desired.

For more information on how to import data via ODBC in your particular software, it is best to consult the particular software's help sources.

Q01.	Should I create one ODBC DSN (Data Source Name) for my ManageMore data folder, or should I create one ODBC DSN for each ManageMore data file (.mdf files)?

A01.

This depends on your specific situation. Both methods are provided because certain applications require that you use a file-specific DSN. If you encounter difficulties using a folder-specific DSN, you should use a file-specific DSN. As an example, using ManageMore ODBC with Microsoft Access requires that you use file-specific DSNs.

A02.	The only prerequisite for using ManageMore ODBC is that you have Microsoft ODBC support installed on any computer that you wish to install ManageMore ODBC. If you are unsure as to whether or not Microsoft ODBC support is installed, you should check with your system administrator.



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