Replicating a split database

[hinser13]

I have a database that has a front end and back end structure. I used this structure in order that I can replace the front end with updates easily by sending the client a new front end each time.

The client now wants to use the database in the field (surveyor remotley) and update back at the office ach day.

It seems that replication is the best option to facilitate this set up.

Know my problem is; If the client has the design master on his PC with the surveoys using replicas. I know can not send a new front end for updates as my client has the design master installed on his PC, THATS ONE PROBLEM!

Also, how practical is it to replicate the front end and back end in order that users in the field can update data, obviously that cant just take the front! No tables!

Should I give the client a none splt database that I replicate to other machines and Lap tops from his office. And then I will have to go to hi office each time to make design changes! this is extremely impractical if I had 50 clients/users at different locations around the country!

I really need to think about the structure before I install this and would really appreciate any one elses experiences.

Thanks Mark

 

[boblarson]

1. The backend is the ONLY thing that should be replicated, if at all.

2. The frontend should NEVER be replicated. You just use a copy of the frontend on each user's machine (like you should in all split situations) and relink it to the replica backend on their machine.

3. David Fenton (resident replication expert) will be by shortly to provide more about this all. I have used it in the past, but it has been quite a while ago, so I defer to his knowledge in this area.

 

[dfenton]

Nothing more to say, Bob -- you covered it -- other than to point to the Jet Replication Wiki:

http://dfenton.com/DFA/Replication/

 

[hinser13]

Thank you bob for taking the time to reply and your helpful comments which make sense.Thank you also David for pointing me in the direction of more info.

Regards

Mark

 

[Rabbie]

Just a word of warning. When you create a replica all autonumber fields are changed from incremental mode to random. This is not a problem provided you have followed the guidelines and don't use the autonumbers to have any significance apart from acting as an unique record primary key. But if you have not followed the guidelines make sure you are aware of this change

 

[hinser13]

Thanks Rabbie

I found this one out after I Replicated the system and had used auto numbers for quotes.

I have now changed the quotation auto number field to a general number field.

Thanks for your reply

Mark