We currently run FileMaker Server 5.5 on an xServe G4 1.0 GHZ dual processor running Mac OS X Server 10.3.8. Approx 12 Clients run FileMaker Pro 6 on Mac OS X 10.3.8. I run Developer 6 edition. We host ~ 30 - 35 databases.

My question(s):

Can changes be made to layouts while a database is hosted via FileMaker Server 5.5? In addition to making changes, can a layout be duplicated and edited while a database is hosted via FileMaker Server 5.5? I'm assuming a new layout can be created in a hosted database, right?

Also, in any hosted database, in Layout mode, I notice Layouts -> Set Layout Order is unavailable/greyed out. Why is that? Can Layout Order not be altered while database is hosted?

Lastly, I notice FileMaker Pro 6 is also installed on the xServe G4 running FileMaker Server 5.5? Is this ok? Can I open the hosted databases in FileMaker Pro 6 on the xServe? For example, to change Multi-User status, or to alter Layout Order?

The last thing I want to do is corrupt any databases, yet I can't find any official docs re: this.

Thanx in advance.

Eric

It's fine to modify layouts (including duplicating and deleting,) on hosted solutions, but you cannot change the layout order.

While you can have a client version of FMP installed on the server machine, it's important that you do not use it to simultaneously work on databases that are being hosted by Server. Some would suggest removing the client version from the server entirely, but I use it for occasional maintenance, like reordering the layouts. I just make sure all files are closed in the Server first.

First off, thanx for the information. Much appreciated.

Second, the info you gave, is it "officially" documented anywhere?

Lastly, when you say "make sure all files are closed in the Server", do you mean, if I'm going to open (in FileMaker Pro on server machine) a hosted database, make sure the one I want to make changes to is closed, or close all hosted databases? I just want to be clear. I'm thinking you mean close database(s) via Remote Administation, but correct me if I'm wrong, I can only close one file at a time, right? FM Config?

Again, thanx in advance.

Mecchaeric,

Ender speaks the truth. I don't know where it is written exactly but he is correct.

With v7 you can change the order of layouts but back on v6 you couldn't.

Since relationships tend to open other files, I always close ALL hosted files when I need to do maintenance from the server machine. In Server Admin, you can close and open an entire folder at a time. The FileMaker Server Config daemon can continue to run.

If you only need to work on one file or module, and it's not too closely tied to everything else, you can close that file or module, then copy it off to another computer to work on, leaving the other databases running.

Thank you one and all for the information. Very helpful.