Turn on ODBC

[Jim1]

Hi,

We have an ODBC application that connects to FileMaker. However, the FM database always has ODBC as off after installation (even though we ship it ON). Is there a way that we can run a script to switch ODBC on. I know I can open the ODBC Sharing window, but would like to switch it on for the current database.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Jim.

[Wim Decorte]

The preference for that toggle is stored in the Windows registry, in the FileMaker preferences. For FM 10 it's in this hive:

HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareFileMakerFileMaker Pro10.0APlugIns

Where you'll find a key named "Disabled" that has its value set to "$RDACSFM1FWEB" by default.

Remove the "RDAC" setting and you'll find that ODBC access will be enabled.

However...

1) messing with the registry can potentially be very dangerous if you make a mistake

2) you'll need to change this key *before* FM loads because FM checks this key at startup only.

So you'll have to find a way to automate this, eith either the command line or VBscript.

[Jim1]

Thank you very much Wim, very helpful indeed!

Much appreciated.

Jim.