db Deloy/ Synch 5 remote computers

[rproactive]

I have developed a Access db that is run on 5 remote computers. Each inputs data for that site that is then combined in a "central" computer. The "central" computer may make some changes to the "imported" Data that then is sent to the remote sites.

Generally how does one accomplish synchronization of 5 remote db. The data is fairly large 5 to 15 MB.

Before using Access this was done by .qif files and Laplink file exchange software (similar to PC anywhere).

I am new to Access and need some broad general ideas. Your valuable experience and advise greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

[fneily]

How remote is "remote"?
If they're just standalone computers within walking distance, you might want to consider replication and sync. You can find info on that searching the Access forums or in a book. This can also be used with laptops.
If they're on an INTRAnet, then you might want to consider splitting the database into frontend/backend. Again, look through forums or book.
If they're really remote, you may want to put up a Citrix server (

http://www.citrix.com).

They then can login remotely to just a single database.
Or you could try your hand at DAP's (data access page). These are web pages so your users can input their data from anywhere.
Others may suggest if you're going to use the INTERnet, rewrite it in SQL, ASP or something. I like DAP's.

 

[rproactive]

Thanks kindly for your outline of possible approahes. This is a very large area of knowledge as you know and I am just learning.

The sites are in the same city but about 30 miles apart. The only present data link is via regular phone line modem, a very slow method. The major trade off is as usual price.

I estimate syndro each data base (about 13 MB) on regular phone line takes about 30 minutes. If one were to only transfer tables that have changed this should be greatly reduced. Automating this approach would be very usefull as you can imagine.

I am unaware of Citrix or DAP’s you suggested and will research these.

Again, I appreciate your ideas and would be eager to hear other details or recommended readings/ sites/ approaches. Learning with so much avialable information can become a long process – especially if not tmepered with experiece. Thanks for your time.

 

[Ed2020]

If you use the replication functionality in MS Access I believe only the records that have changed are synchronised (plus newly added records and record deletions). This should significantly reduce data transfer volumes required to synchronise your database, unless all/most records are changing on a daily basis.

You could still be pushing it a bit over a dial-up modem. I'm not sure what would happen if your connection was broken part way through.

Ed Metcalfe.

Please do not feed the trolls.....