CRDSS_Task1_05-29_PCAccessOfCRDSS

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Third-Party Database Access Tools Several third-party database access tools exist for PCs. Examples are Power Builder from Powersoft and 4GL++ from INFORMIX (forthcoming). Other products are ViewPoint from INFORMIX, SQL Windows and Quest from Gupta Technologies, and Microsoft Excel, to name a few. These products allow custom database applications to be quickly created on a PC such that the PC can query any number of databases that conform to the Microsoft ODBC (Open Database Connect) standard. Consequently, a PC user can access a database using an interface that has been customized for that user (or for a general class of users). If a list of database products (meaning reports, graphs, etc.) can be identified within the CRDSS, then such a tool may be used to provide access to the database. The limitation on the products is that they typically require transparent network connectivity. In other words, the PC must be connected to the database server machine by a network such as a Novell network or the Internet. A SLIP connection could provide this connectivity, but the limitations of this type of connection must be considered. Supporting PCs and UNIX Workstations Many topics can be discussed when addressing the issue of ?support.? Of major importance are support from a development standpoint and support from a maintenance standpoint. If an application is to be supportable from a development standpoint, then development efforts for a specific ?product? should be efficient and straightforward. The most desirable result is that the software developed for the workstation will port to the PC. This eliminates the need to support multiple versions of the software and consequently eliminates the need to have workstation ?experts? and PC ?experts.? RTi has proposed that all development conform to accepted industry standards such as ANSI C and FORTRAN programming languages (see Task Memorandum 1.05-28). These standards will ensure that much of the CRDSS code can be ported. However, because PC hardware and operating systems have inherent limitations, the consultant also recognizes that some software will not port from a workstation to a PC. Such software includes third-party software such as INFORMIX, over which the consultant has no control. In terms of database access, third-party PC products such as Power Builder and 4GL++ can be used to provide access to the database and the same application may work on the PC and workstation. In terms of some of the more fully-featured CRDSS applications (e.g., the modeling applications), it is unlikely that the full functionality of the software could be ported to the PC. The consultant has recommended that a portable GUI builder be purchased for the CRDSS development effort (see Task Memorandum 1.05-15). Such a product will allow new GUI code to be portable between workstations and PCs. Again, however, some applications may not be suitable for PCs because of limitations of the PCs. Support from a maintenance standpoint refers to the fact that software that is distributed to users must be maintained regardless of whether the software changes. Software that is written for PCs will ideally run on every PC; however, because PCs have widely varying configurations, there is no absolute guarantee that software written for a PC will actually run on all PCs. Also, software will need to be updated to reflect changes in PC operating systems. PC software written as part of the CRDSS could be written for a PC that has certain minimum configuration requirements; however, such a requirement may impose a penalty on users who cannot supply such a configuration. Supporting all PCs will pose problems to the CRDSS team. An overall concern for the consultant is that if extensive PC development is to take place, then budget for such efforts must be made available, possibly by reallocating Year 2 funds. There is a 4 A275 06.29.94 1.05-29 Malers