Need help getting started...

[LeahLady79]

Hello, I am working on an application that will bring Paradox tables into a VB application that will then let the client query and run reports.

Normally, I would have used MS Access and be done with it, however the data in the tables is being generated by another program, so I have to dynamically access the data from the other program's folder on the server every time the user runs the application. To the best of my knowledge, this is not something that Access can do (if there is a way to do it, I'm all ears)

My expertise lies in database management (ie: Access or SQL2000) and Web applications. So, while I'm familiar with the use of connection strings, I'm completely LOST on WHERE to use them.

I've found lots of good advice on the web, but nothing that tells me where to start. Once I'm on my way, I think that I'll be ok with finishing this project.

Thanks!

 

[zemp]

I would look into using ADO to create a connection to the paradox database. Once that is established you can use that connection to pull any data that you want. Similar to opening a connection to Access, except the SQL syntax will probably be different and you will need a paradox connection string. If you can create an ODBC (system DSN) link to the paradox data you are on your way.

.connectionstring = "DSN=MyODBC"

Where 'MyODBC' is the name of the system DSN connection. This should be tempoary until you have found a proper connection string. But it will allow you to move forward in other areas.

Since you know access so well you could use ADO to pump the data into temporary Access tables to run Access reports. Thanks and Good Luck!

zemp

 

[CajunCenturion]

One site that may prove helpful is the following:

http://www.able-consulting.com/ADO_Conn.htm

You should be able to find examples of connection strings to many different flavors of databases. Good Luck
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As a circle of light increases so does the circumference of darkness around it. - Albert Einstein

 

[LeahLady79]

Thanks for the quick replies... one last question before I go and bang my head on my keyboard some more... WHERE do I put the connection string? Should it be under a command button to connect? on a form load? Or does it matter? Is there one way that works better than another??

Thanks again!

 

[zemp]

It is really up to you. I usually have it connect automatically. With a button on a login form or in a form load event. Users usually don't want to have to remember to make a connection. Thanks and Good Luck!

zemp