Version Compatibility - Client & Server

[KirkR]

Can an older version of FM Server work with later version clients?

Specifically, an in house developed FM9 application, currently running 5 user P2P, moving to FM Server - does it require the latest version of FM server, or can I get by on an older server version?? (small business - trying to limit cash expenditures).

If so, are there limitations?

[mr_vodka]

Depends... What version of Server are you talking about? You havent mentioned it. Basically, files that are .fp7 extention files can be opened up with V7, 8, 8.5, & 9. You can use server 7, 8, or 9.

However, if the developer has used any newer functions in FM8 or FM9, and you are running it on FMS7, then things may break as those functions do not exist. If they were coded with FM7 specs, then it would be okay to open them with newer versions.

[KirkR]

Server TBD - looking at the cost of buying an older version 7 or 8, for 20% of the version 9 server. Not used, but new, old stock items that are on the shelf unopened.

I can pick up MF Server 8 advanced, for about $350 vs. over $2k street price on V9.

I've not used much of FM 9 specific features in the code - and the few that I have, I can program around. Have to look at the time cost of recoding those features (or even finding out what features I used that do not run in older versions), to see if the difference is worth it.

[Steven H. Blackwell]

Take a look here for Tech Info 5377. While dated to Server 8, it nevertheless has some good information.

Almost without exception, trying to buy older versions to "save money" is costly.

Check with your FMI Sales Rep at 800-725-2747 for information about various bundles and specials. And I'd get on a maintenance program so you don't have to go through this again.

Steven

[KirkR]

Out of curiosity, how does one get from the Filemaker FAQ to a specific tech info - in this case 5377?

Searching does not get there - at least with any of the words "tech info 5377"

[mr_vodka]

http://filemaker.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/filemaker.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=5377

This is always a shortcut, but you should be able to search for the number itself as well.

[Steven H. Blackwell]

Out of curiosity, how does one get from the Filemaker FAQ to a specific tech info - in this case 5377?

Go to the link I gave, and where it says "Enter your search term(s)", enter 5377 and hit the Enter key.

HTH

Steven

[KirkR]

No matter how many times I tried entering 5377, it always returned a nothing found message.

Tried it just now, and it worked. Go figure.