File Data Source

To access this screen:

This screen is used to connect with a data source that has file data source names (DSNs).

A DSN is a named configuration that tells an ODBC driver how to connect to a specific database. It typically includes:

  • The ODBC driver to use

  • The server or host name

  • The database name

  • Authentication details (username/password or trusted connection)

  • Optional settings like port, encryption, or timeouts

When you run an ODBC import, the application references the DSN instead of requiring all connection details each time. The File Data Source screen, then, asks you to select a .dsn file created from a previous import (or configured elsewhere) or create a new data source connection.

Note: A file-based data source, not necessarily user-dedicated nor local to a computer, can be shared among all users who have the same drivers installed.

This type of data source differs from the Machine Data Source which is stored in the Windows registry.

To use an existing file data source:

  1. Display the File Data Source screen.

  2. Use Look In to define the directory for which the sub-directories and file DSNs are listed in the window below.
  3. In the browser window, select a data source .dsn file.
  4. Click OK to connect to the data source.

To create a new file data source:

  1. Display the File Data Source screen.

  2. Click New.

    The Create New Data Source screen displays.

  3. Choose the driver for which you are adding a file DSN.

  4. Click Next to specify the name or location of the new file DSN.

  5. Click Next again to view a summary of the new information.

  6. Click Finish to display the driver-specific set up screen.

  7. Click OK to connect to the new data source.

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