Generally, on Windows-based operating systems, ODBC data sources are stored in the system registry. File data sources are an alternative, which are stored as files. In Windows, file data sources typically have the extension .dsn. They consist of sections, each section starting with a name enclosed in square brackets.

To connect using a File Data Source, use the FileDataSourceName (FILEDSN) connection parameter. You can not use both DataSourceName (DSN) and FileDataSourceName (FILEDSN) in the same connection.

File data sources can be distributed

Use File Data Sources to distribute the file to users and simplify the management of multiple user connections. If the file is placed in the default location for file data sources, it is picked up automatically by ODBC.

To create an ODBC file data source (ODBC Administrator)

1. Choose Start » Programs » SQL Anywhere 11 » ODBC Administrator.

2. Click the File DSN tab.

3. Click Add.

4. In the Name list, click SQL Anywhere 11.

5. Click Next.

6. Follow the instructions in the Create New Data Source Wizard.