Multiple Users?

[jmuirman]

I need to split my db so that I can hire another person to work with me. The
new person will probably stay in my office while I will travel. I currently
just have a laptop with a docking station.

1. How do I set up a network? Do I need a server or just a a desk top? Is it
worthwhile to subscribe to an online server? Where would the database reside?
2. If I enter data while away from the office, how can I sync up with my
associate upon my return?
3. Once I figure out my platform, i need to figure how to split the db in
2003 Access.

Thanks,

John

 

[Allen Browne]

You do not need a server. Sharing the database on your workstation is fine.

There is a wizard to split the database into back end (just the tables), and
front end (linked table and all the other objects, i.e. queries, forms, ...)
More info about splitting:
http://allenbrowne.com/ser-01.html

So, you create a folder on your computer such as C:\MyDatabase, and share
it. Buy a router. Plug both computers into the router with network cable
(typically blue CAT5 cables.) The other computer can then read/write the
folder. If you are connected to the Internet, you probably want a router
that shares the Internet connection as well, e.g.:
http://www.netgear.com/Products/RoutersandGateways/WiredRouters/RP614.aspx
or
http://www.netgear.com/Products/RoutersandGateways/WiredRouters/DG834.aspx

If the back end is on *your* computer, when you take it out of the network
you can continue to work on the database, but the other computer will not
have any data while you are away.

It is possible to design an Access 2003 database to use replication. You can
investigate that process, but I'm not sure it's a good idea, given that MS
has removed this from A2007 so it appears not to be in the future of Access.

 

[jmuirman]

Thanks Allen.

So if I split the db and take it with me, the other user couldn't look up
cases/data?

If I left it on the office desk top, and traveled with the laptop, could I
enter data while away and have it sync up when I place in the docking station?

If not, then splitting the db would seemingly be the best for an in office
type of application...am I on the right track?

Thanks,

John

Thanks,

John

 

[Allen Browne]

That's correct.

If the desktop contains the data file, you could copy it to your laptop so
you have a local copy, and then connect your linked tables to that. Then use
the Linked Table Manager to reconnect them to the desktop when you return.

The only real issue there is if you forget or get confused about which one
you are connected to. Therefore you need some kind of visual indicator when
you are connected to your own local copy.