At 09:05 PM 16/05/2006, you wrote:

>Hi Helen
>
>I'm confused, I have checked my test networks services file and it
>doesn't contain an entry for 3050, neither does the machine having
>problems, but the software runs fine on the test network.
>
>Am I correct in understanding of what you have said: that as it
>fbserver uses port 3050 by default, that the entry in the services
>file is unnecessary? This would certainly support the observations
>above regarding the lack of an entry on my test network.
>
>The machine with the problems has had a install of firebird with
>Parameters: /silent /NOGDS32.
>
>Is it fair to assume that the /NOGDS32 parameter means that the
>services entry is not made?

No, at least not on the basis of the documented
purpose /NOGDS32 flag. I quoted you the
documentation as to the meaning of that. But why
don't you just give it a whirl and test your assumption?

>Unfortunately that still leaves me wondering where the problems are……

On the client - you may well need the Services
entry to be there. The *server engine* knows to
broadcast on port 3050 without the Services
entry, so it's not needed on the server. I've
always supposed that the Firebird 1.5 client knew
to listen for port 3050 if the port wasn't provided in the connection string.

But maybe not....maybe a client-only install
*does* need the Services entry. Or -- going by
your subsequent comments about your tester -- I'd
guess all bets were off regarding the so-called
"test conditions". If he's in the habit of
unplugging his client machine from the network
and crying "Broken!" when he finds he's not
connected to the server any more, it's more
likely some basic lessons in the Law of Osram will help.

./heLen