> How do I check if there is something connected to the database

which may be

> gaining exclusive access? I know that I haven't initiated access to

the DB

> using any other applications.

If you know that then this probably isn't your problem. But to test.
When you 'know' that you have closed down all the programs that
access the database, give it a few seconds then attempt to rename the
file. The garbage collection may be running for a few seconds, but it
normally finishes within seconds.

>
> How do I implement the TCP loopback connection for the database ?

You use the connection string

[hostname]:[path to database or alias]

A local connection does not use the hostname.

> Unfortunately, I am using the BDE components TQuery, TDatabase, etc.
>
> I believe it may be something internal to the opening of the

database within

> the code. I'll go and check that out now...

Yuck. I think you may be in unchartered waters there. The BDE may
well be opening it exclusively.

Try and open two iSQL windows. It should let you without problems.
Now with the iSQL windows open, try and open your application. If
your application fails, then it must be attempting a local connection
(I would not be surprised if BDE did that).

It is a case of first in best dressed as far as connection modes go.
If you are in with a TCP connection (which supports multiple
connecting), then direct connections will fail. Conversely, if you
are in with a local connection (which does not support multiple
applications connecting), then you will not be able to connect with
either local or TCP connections. I believe this is to avoid
corruption.

First though work out what it is that is locking out the second user.
If it is not the BDE I would be surprised.

Adam