Flat File as datasource.

[crsdev]

Hello all,
I don't think we can have flat file as a data source for a report. any thought on how to go about doing this..
using sql loader to load the data in oracle tables could be one... using external tables might be another...

any experienced gurus to suggest the best way to do this...

Thanks.

 

[synapsevampire]

A flat file covers many different formats, please state specifics.

It's generally best to read it into a table, however you can use a text file, such as CSV, etc.

The most common way is to create an ODBC conneciton to the "flat file", and then just use that in Crystal.

-k

 

[crsdev]

Thanks Synapsevampire.
It's a CSV file.
So you'r saying creating an ODBC connection to the flat file is the best way to do it. instead of loading it to oracle tables...
Do you know of any document to guide me through in creating the ODBC connection to the flat file. or if you could give me the steps that would be great.

Thanks.

 

[synapsevampire]

How did my stating "It's generally best to read it into a table, " equate to "So you'r saying creating an ODBC connection to the flat file is the best way to do it."?

The steps are:

Start->Settings->Control Panel->Administrative Tools->Data Sources (ODBC)->System DSN tab->Add->Microsoft Text Driver->Define Format->CSV Format

But again, it would be better to load the data into a table, rather than use a ODBC connection to a CSV, but either is possible.

-k