Running two databases

Abstract

Capable 21C has the ability to use two databases on the same computer. This can be convenient if the office wishes to run a training copy as well as a production copy. It can also be convenient for analyzing databases from two offices on a home PC. This knowledgebase article explains how to configure a PC to operate this way.

Underlying challenge

Note that this article includes information that is of a technical nature. Some basic skills with using Windows, configuring Windows shortcuts and editing text files will be necessary.

When Capable 21C starts from a shortcut, not only does the Capable.EXE application start running, it starts running in a particular folder on the PC. This folder is defined in the shortcut. Capable 21C examines this folder to determine if a Capable.INI file exists in that folder. It then uses the Capable.INI file to locate the desired database.

Whilst the default installation of Capable 21C places the database in C:\Capable and the program (and INI file) in C:\Program Files\Capable, it is possible to change these folders, or create multiple instances of them.

Resolution

To run two databases, follow these steps:

  • Ensure that Capable 21C is installed normally.
  • Create a second folder for the second Capable 21C database (eg C:\Capable2).
  • Copy the second database, and associated sub-folders into the newly created second base folder.
  • Copy the Capable.INI file from C:\Program Files\Capable into the newly created second base folder.
  • Edit the new Capable.INI file and change the DATABASE setting so that it points to the newly created base folder (eg DATABASE=C:\Capable2\).
  • Create a new shortcut to the Capable.EXE program file. The easiest way to do this is to copy an existing shortcut. Ensure that the new shortcut is appropriately renamed so that it is easy for operators to distinguish the two. /li>
  • Right click on the new shortcut, and choose Properties.
  • Change the ‘Start In’ folder so that it points to the newly created second base folder (eg C:\Capable2).

    • Detailed Information

    It is easy to confuse the two Capable 21C databases and the two shortcuts. For this reason, Capable Software Pty Ltd recommends that the folders and shortcuts have significantly different names to help prevent confusion (eg Capable Training and Capable Production, or Capable Office 1 and Capable Office 2).

    Once Capable 21C has started, it is possible to double check which database is being used from the Help|About screen.

    The techniques described in this article can be re-used to locate three, four or more databases on the same PC.

    		This knowledge resource is designed for use on a Windows (tm) XP system operating at a screen resolution of 1024x768 or better. Windows Media Player must be installed for this training resource to operate correctly.

    Copyright 2008 Capable Software Pty Ltd

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