Off-line Locations

Normally there is a communications link between pairs of locations, and these locations are referred to as on-line. (Their ICONN attribute is 1, and RHOST points to a valid computer name.) However, Global can operate if there is no direct communications link between the Hub and certain locations. These locations are referred to as off-line. (Their ICONN is 0, and RHOST may be unset.)

A tape, CD or other medium is used to copy the databases from one location to the other.

It should be noted that:

• The TRANSFER command copies databases to or from the project directory to a special transfer directory, ready for the physical transfer to another location. The physical transfer must be made as well as using the TRANSFER command from Admin.

• The existence of off-line locations limits the administration capabilities of a project.

• Off-line locations can only be children of the Hub. An on-line satellite cannot have off-line children.

• Database transfer to and from the media used for communication with an off-line location can only be made at the Hub and the off-line location.

• Commands such as ALLOCATE and CHANGE PRIMARY are not self-contained. Working practices are required to make sure the correct transfer of data.