A beta of v8.30.03 is now available for download. Two changes in this update:

1. The problem with parameters passed by reference has been fixed (parameter values modified by the server not passed back to the client application).

This means that using Delphi and early binding will now work: viewtopic.php?f=46&t=10639

2. You can now choose to either connect to a running instance (of CATraxx), or start a new instance (with no visible GUI). Note that you must call the new Quit method when closing the connection to the server if you created a new instance.

Also note that if you create a new instance, the last used database is not opened automatically. You must manually set the Database property to open the database.

In Delphi, if you use early binding, use the ConnectKind property to control this (ckNewInstance, ckRunningInstance or ckRunningOrNew). You can set the AutoQuit property to automatically call Quit when you close the connection to the server.

If you use late binding, use GetActiveOleObject to connect to the running instance of CATraxx. CreateOleObject will always create a new instance.

You can download the beta version from

http://www.fnprg.com/catraxx/dl/catraxx ... _setup.exe

The "new instance without GUI" setup is BRILLIANT! I can't wait to try it!

- Jeff

Yep, this is good news.
Now I will go back to using the TDataServer component, with which you can completely control how and when and what to connect to.
Also you have the code insight, which I know that you like.

Be aware of:

If you use late binding, you will have to change the code to use GetActiveOLEobject to connect to a running instance.
If you use the TDataServer, you will have to change some string parameters to integer.

For me, it means I'll have to release new versions, since I am using late binding in all my programs.

Which parameters?

Sorry Fredrik.

The documentation is in accordance with the TDataServer.
I have gotten away with using string parameters with f.eks. PlayPlaylist.
I discovered it when changing to early binding.

What is the "TDataServer" component?

- Jeff

It's a component installed when you import the type library.
Just tick "Generate component wrappers" and it will be installed in your ActiveX palette or whatever you choose.
Now it works like any other component.

Ah, I see. I never generate component wrappers. Less VCL is better, IMHO.

- Jeff

Maybe in some cases, but not in this one.

Drop the component.
Give it a name.

Then use Name.Connect and you are connected.

Compared to your code, this seems a lot simpler (and it works!)

Unless of course you are using a library approach, which I am. Should I include a form in my library just to include the VCL component?

Delphi takes the "drop a component and code" approach to extremes, in my opinion.