Dynamic Web Tutorials and Notes

Connect to Database - set up DSN (DataSource Name)

One of the most powerful applications of Dreamweaver MX is how easy it is to connect to a Database. You do this using a DSN - DataSource Name. You can also use a DSN-less connection, but this is more complicated and is best to leave for the moment.

  1. Create a new folder called database in the C:\inetpub\wwwroot\testsite folder
  2. Put sample database (test.mdb) in C:\inetpub\wwwroot\testsite\database folder
  3. Open Dreamweaver MX
  4. Click ‘Window>Databases’
  5. Click ‘+’ button
  6. Click ‘Data Source Name’
  7. Name the connection – connTest
  8. Click ‘Define’
  9. Click ‘System DSN’ tab
  10. Click ‘Add’
  11. Click ‘Microsoft Access Driver’
  12. Click ‘Finish’
  13. Name the Data Source – test Data
  14. Description – testing database
  15. Click ‘Select’
  16. Browse to C:\inetpub\wwwroot\testsite\database folder
  17. Select sample database – test.mdb
  18. Click ’OK’
  19. Click ‘Test’
  20. Connection was made successfully - Click ’OK’
  21. Your connection should now look like this:
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