Copy database files between XP and Vista problem

[Guest]

I have a data base file that can be copied and placed betwee XP machines
(running the same application) with no problem.

I am trying to do the same data file cut/paste between an XP machine and a
Vista machine. The application (filemaker 8.5) on the Vista machine will
launch correctly, but none of the original records created on the XP machine
can be seen. New records created on the Vista machine can be seen, but the
old ones created in XP never show. Are there properties/ownerships in the
file that need to be adjusted for Vista?

All help/insight appreciated.

 

[Kerry Brown]

It sounds like the data is stored in Program Files or some other system
area. In Vista older programs which do this are tricked into thinking this
works. In reality the files are written to a virtual store in each user's
profile. This can cause unexpected results as you have seen. The solution is
to make sure the data files are stored in a public folder that is accessible
to everyone.

 

[Guest]

Thanks Kerry. This makes sense. So if the data file was part of a larger
bundled solution (i.e., Filemaker), then I think you are also suggesting that
the entire data base program be installed in some location other than Program
Files (which is currently the default location). This is very doable, just
want to make sure.

Thanks again.

 

[Kerry Brown]

The program itself should be installed to Program Files. The data if it's
data that all users need to access should be in a public folder somewhere
else. It's a new concept for most Windows users and programmers but it's an
old concept for most OS'. Programs are stored in a system area readable by
all. Data is divided into two categories. User data is stored in an area
accessible by a particular user. This includes individual program settings,
data files the user wants to keep private, etc.. Only that user can access
this area. Public data is stored in a public area that everyone can read and
write to. Many older programs aren't programmed this way and may need to be
re-written to work in Vista. Can you specify a folder where the data is
stored in Filemaker?

 

[Guest]

Thanks Kerry. Since my program is built for multi-platform funcitonality
(Mac, XP, etc), it is really convenient for myself and other users to have
everything in one neat folder (it also makes updates a lot easier), and the
same directions for file access apply to all (as opposed to having different
user directions for every OS). Data files could be directed to a separate
location, but I'll have to do some hard thinking on that. Are there any
hidden traps if I just install the program outside of the Program File area,
into a common area?

Thanks again,
Bob

 

[Kerry Brown]

You may have to change the NTFS permissions for whatever folder you install
it in. By default Vista creates folders with the least amount of
permissions. It is then up to the installer to change the permissions as
needed.

OS X is built on Unix which uses very similar security to Vista. Are you
telling me in OS X you install the program and the data in the same folder?
This is a bad practice for many reasons. The most common problem would be a
user accidently erasing a file needed by the program. Another scenario would
be a user installing an add-on or trying upgrade to a new version etc.,
etc.. From a security and support standpoint programs should be installed to
an area where normal users can't make modifications. Convenience for the
installer is not always the best practice. It can often cause increased
costs in maintaining and supporting a program.

 

[Guest]

Kerry,

One more follow-up question. You mentioned the use of a public folder in a
previous email. To make sure I am following you exactly, can you provide a
sample file path of what you mean by a public folder.

Thanks.