Using ODBC to access relational databases

You can use the ODBC (Open Database Connectivity) Version 2.0 standard to access relational databases such as DB2® or Oracle. Using formulas or scripts embedded in Domino® objects, you can integrate the data from many external databases into Domino® applications. For example, a customer call-tracking application accessed via the Notes® client or Web browser can access customer financial data from an ODBC-compliant relational database management system. ODBC is available on Windows™, AIX®, HP-UX, OS/2, and the Mac PowerPC®.

Files required to use ODBC

When you install Domino® Designer, ODBC modules that support external data access install automatically.

In addition to these modules, you need an ODBC library (or shared object) and a driver for the type of database you want to access. You purchase and install the library and driver separately. For Windows™ 95, for example, you need these modules on your workstation:

  • The ODBC 2.0 interface, available from Microsoft™.

    The interface defines the library of ODBC functions that perform the connection, query, and data-retrieval processes.

  • The Driver Manager, available from Microsoft™ and other vendors.

    The manager loads the necessary drivers used to access the data and acts as an interface between Domino® and the drivers.

  • The ODBC drivers, available from vendors or available for no charge to Notes® and Domino® users on the web site http://www.lotus.com.

    These handle communication between the Driver Manager and the databases. Domino® supports a variety of drivers. Each driver affects the specific capabilities of your application and comes with its own installation, configuration, and Help documentation.

    Note: Do not mix 32-bit and 16-bit versions of drivers, driver managers and Domino®. When using 32-bit Notes® clients or servers, use a 32-bit driver manager and 32-bit drivers. When using a 16-bit Notes® client or Domino® server, use a 16-bit driver manager and 16-bit drivers to use ODBC to make successful connections.

    Some Domino® applications include ODBC drivers that are licensed specifically for use with that application. Domino® cannot use these drivers. If you try to use these drivers, a message appears stating that you must have a license. You may be given a phone number or other information.

For more information about ODBC, see the Microsoft™ ODBC 2.0 Programmer's Reference and SDK Guide published by Microsoft™ Press.