Configure Connection
dBase ODBC guide
Install the database driver, prepare file access and a File DSN, then configure and test the connection in NIM.
Before you startDirect link to Before you start
The documented connector prerequisite is Microsoft Access Database Engine 2016, installed on the NIM server. Ensure that the Windows account running the NIM service can access the dBase data folder and the File DSN.
NIM requires Path and File DSN.
Microsoft states that Access Database Engine 2016 support ended on October 14, 2025, and recommends Microsoft 365 Access Runtime as its replacement. Confirm compatibility with your NIM connector before substituting the driver.
Prepare the driver and service accountDirect link to Prepare the driver and service account
- Install Microsoft Access Database Engine 2016 using the download linked above. Select the driver architecture that matches the process used by the NIM connector.
- Identify the Windows account running the NIM service.
- Grant that account access to the dBase folder, its data files, and the File DSN. For a network location, check both share and file system permissions.
- For source data collection, grant the access needed to read the data. If your process will write data, separately authorize the required file changes and validate them before enabling automation.
dBase drivers access files directly. Access is controlled through the file location and driver configuration; the PostgreSQL-style database user and schema grants do not apply. See Microsoft's file-based driver explanation.
Prepare the File DSNDirect link to Prepare the File DSN
- Open the Windows ODBC Data Source Administrator matching the driver architecture.
- Create or select a File DSN using the installed dBase-capable driver and configure it for the intended data folder.
- Save the
.dsnfile in a location accessible to the NIM service account.
Enter the connection settingsDirect link to Enter the connection settings
- In NIM Studio, open Systems > Overview and add a dBase ODBC system, or select the existing system.
- Open its Connection screen.
- Enter the following settings and save the connection.
| NIM setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Path | The path to the dBase data folder, accessible to the NIM service account. |
| File DSN | The .dsn file configured for the dBase connection and accessible to that account. |
Test the database connectionDirect link to Test the database connection
- Select Test Connection. NIM attempts to open the database connection using the configured Path and File DSN.
- Confirm that the connection opens successfully. If it fails, check the driver installation and architecture, Path, File DSN configuration, and service account permissions.
- Collect the system and inspect the expected tables and records.
- Validate the collected data and matching rules before using dBase as source or supplemental data for NIM processes.
A successful connection test confirms that NIM can open the connection. Validate collection and any intended write operations separately.