> On Linux, you should be able to open the database with isql while

logged into the server as root, with no user name and password. Then
you can DROP ROLE SYSDBA.

>
> Well, then, if you're not normally operating as root on the server,

you can log in as SYSDBA (once you have dropped the role).

>
> ./hb
>

I've tried it:

nb052 bin # id
uid=0(root) gid=0(root)
groups=0(root),1(bin),2(daemon),3(sys),4(adm),6(disk),10(wheel),11(floppy),20(dialout),26(tape),27(video)
nb052 bin # ./isql /full/path.FDB
Statement failed, SQLCODE = -902
Your login SYSDBA is same as one of the SQL role name. Ask your
database administrator to set up a valid Firebird login.
Use CONNECT or CREATE DATABASE to specify a database
SQL>

but it seems to not work for me...

Thanks for your help