Frequently Asked Questions

What is ODBC?

ODBC stands for Open DataBase Connectivity. It means that other programs can access the ECLIPSE database and extract or modify data. ODBC is a Microsoft standard for program independent database communications.

What can ODBC do for me?

The most obvious answer is reporting. A common reporting package like Crystal Reports can access your ECLIPSE data and create just about any type of report that you could desire. For example, our practice creates a week end summary report for the collections department. It lists summary information on all the major accounts with 30, 60, 90 day break downs and shows the weeks performance amount, negative or positive.

This is the primary use of the ODBC capability right now. In the future, you will probably see additional software programs that will complement ECLIPSE's capabilities and can add or modify data in the ECLIPSE database.

What do I need to get started?

First of all you need to decide if you have the technical ability, time and interest in getting over the learning curve required. If you don't then HNA can help find you a consultant in your area that can help you with your needs.

If you desire to move ahead, then you need to purchase the ODBC driver from HNA. Call their Sales Department at 800.966.1462 and they can fix you up. You will need a copy of the driver for each computer that will be using ODBC access.

Next you need a program to create your reports. You can use Access, Crystal Reports, Visual Basic, etc. The only requirement is that it must support ODBC databases.

Once you have these basic tools you are ready to go. 

Which Version of Crystal Reports do I need?

The current Version for Crystal Reports is Version 8.5. The author purchase Version 8.0 about 4 weeks before V8.5 was released and Crystal Decisions was kind enough to upgrade him for free. So if you have a recent copy of V8.0, you might want to call Crystal Decisions and ask.

There are three different levels of Crystal Reports available, Developer, Professional and Standard. You can view Crystal Decisions comparison of them here. HNA recommends that you get the Professional version. The Standard version apparent will not support connection an ODBC database, only a native supported one. The authors has the Developer version, but does not think that you need more than the Professional version. The bottom line is that you need the Professional or better Version 8.5.

One distinct advantage of the Developer version is that it comes bundled with Crystal Enterprise. If you are running a client/server environment with NT4 Server or better, then this is the way to go. We set up IIS on the server to provide an intranet. Enterprise links to your web server and provides your Crystal reports over your intranet. Anyone on your network can now access reports without needing a copy of Crystal Reports. If fact, you could even provide your reports over the internet with the obvious need for password protection for sensitive data. 

The Developer version of Crystal Reports is definitely the authors suggestion for this specific reason.

 

Where Can I Get the Best Price on Crystal Reports?

Your local software store will have or can order Crystal Reports for you. It is also available on the net from a number of vendors. CNET has a price comparison between the different sites. The author's preference is with www.CDW.com, but use who ever you best like.

What is a DSN?

A DSN or Data Source Name is the name used by your programs to identify the ODBC connection to Eclipe. The DSN is set up using the ODBC Data Sources icon in the Control Panel. Once you have set up an ODBC connection to Eclipse and named it with a DSN, then any ODBC compliant application can use that connection. See the Getting Started section for how to set up a DSN.

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Last modified: April 05, 2001