While BDE automatically manages file and record locks in multi-user environments, it must be properly configured to do so. This article walks you through the process.
To change the NET FILE location:
Start by choosing an appropriate location for the NET FILE. This must be available to all BDE-client users (Paradox, dBASE, and custom applications built using Delphi and/or C++ Builder). Additionally, these users must have full rights to the directory; that is, BDE must be able to read, write, update, and delete files in this directory. In network administration terms, this means all users must have full rights to the directory.
If choosing a new directory, it's best to use one that follows the old 8.3 naming conventions. While Paradox and BDE support long file names, (e.g. names containing spaces or longer than eight characters), various environmental factors can prevent this support from working properly. This includes certain network operating systems and various Windows settings. If you're not sure you can use long file names on your system, it's safest to follow the old standard.
Start the BDE Administrator by choosing its icon in Control Panel.
When the BDE Administrator loads, make sure the Configuration table is selected (normally done by default).
In the Configuration list, choose Configuration | Drivers | Native | Paradox. This displays the definition of the Paradox driver to the right of the configuration list.
Locate the NET FILE setting and then either select or enter the directory you selected in Step 1.
From the BDE Administrator's main menu, choose Object | Apply or click the Apply Changes toolbar button. This displays a confirmation dialog. Accept it by choosing OK.
Either exit the BDE Administrator (if this is a permanent change) or save your changes to a new configuration file (if this is a temporary change). Saving your changes to a different filename lets you restore your original configuration when necessary.
If you saved your changes to a new configuration file in the previous step, exit the BDE Administrator.
Note: If you receive an "Invalid Filename" error when choosing the Browse button, this indicates that the current setting points to a directory that doesn't exist or is not currently available. If this happens:
Type c:\ as the NET FILE value.
Select (click) the dBASE driver in the Configuration list to "submit" (save) the new setting.
Re-select the Paradox driver.
You should now be able to use the Browse button.