Application Startup from a CD

[slrphd]

I have created an early version of an Access application and it is time to test the sucker. I would like this application to be loaded onto a CD to make the software portable (Well, if I can't make a simple joke, what good am I?). The idea is to have be able to make changes and updates to the database and the support files that the sales staff can take with them on client calls. So, here is what I would like to do: the database should open automatically when the CD is inserted and read. The application uses the MS Access database manager on the PC but the database, itself, and all the support files reside on the CD. Is it possible? Do I need to write an autorun "batch program" that invokes all this for me? If so, where do I go for guidance as I have never done that before?

Breathless in DC

Steven L. Ross

 

[The_Doc_Man]

You might do better to have a script run from the CD that creates a directory on the PC, copies the DB there, then opens it, and finally closes AND DELETES the DB when your demo is done.

Your problem is that if you run it from the CD, you cannot create a lock file in the folder that holds the DB, so you will have problems. If you wanted to demonstrate ANYTHING involving an updatable form, you are hosed to tears in a New York second because the (non-lockable) DB will be Read-Only. Therefore, all objects inside it will ALSO be Read-Only.

 

[slrphd]

You might do better to have a script run from the CD that creates a directory on the PC, copies the DB there, then opens it, and finally closes AND DELETES the DB when your demo is done.

Your problem is that if you run it from the CD, you cannot create a lock file in the folder that holds the DB, so you will have problems. If you wanted to demonstrate ANYTHING involving an updatable form, you are hosed to tears in a New York second because the (non-lockable) DB will be Read-Only. Therefore, all objects inside it will ALSO be Read-Only.

=====

OK. That sounds reasonable and like it would be a lot fewer headaches. This revelation brings me to the subject of writing scripts. I haven't the foggiest notion of where to begin and any advice would be helpful. (See what happens when you try to be a good guy?)

Breathless in DC

Steven L. Ross

 

[Oldsoftboss]

I use a product called Deploy. Get it from http://www.deploymaster.com/
It is an installation product that enables a professional looking install. You can download a free trial version and have a fiddle around.

It is pretty easy to use and allows you to create desktop icons, whether to overwrite an existing file, create registry entries etc

EG:
Save the deploy file as SetUp.exe

Create a text file and type in

[AutoRun] = SetUp.exe

Save the file and then rename it autorun.inf

When you stick the CD in your installation program should start automatically.

HTH

Dave

 

[slrphd]

I use a product called Deploy. Get it from http://www.deploymaster.com/
It is an installation product that enables a professional looking install. You can download a free trial version and have a fiddle around.

It is pretty easy to use and allows you to create desktop icons, whether to overwrite an existing file, create registry entries etc

EG:
Save the deploy file as SetUp.exe

Create a text file and type in

[AutoRun] = SetUp.exe

Save the file and then rename it autorun.inf

When you stick the CD in your installation program should start automatically.

HTH

Dave

===============

Dave,
Thanks for the tip. I'll give it a try.
Steven Ross


Old fisherman never die, they just small that way.