User`s guide

Note:
The file crdb_query.dll must be installed before you can use query files in your reports.
A.8 Crystal Dictionary files
A dictionary (.dc5) file is a structured and simplified view of organizational data that you can create for
any of the individuals in your organization that are using Crystal Reports. With a dictionary, end users
only see the subset of tables and fields they need.
A dictionary is an optional source of data for Crystal Reports. It provides a convenient filter, clarifying
and simplifying complex data access techniques for end users, but the user can still access data directly
from the database. Dictionaries simply provide all the convenience without the headaches.
Note:
Crystal Dictionary files were created by a legacy program in Crystal Reports. While the program is no
longer supported, you can still use the resulting DC5 files as report data sources.
Once created, the dictionary acts as a filter, providing a view of complex data that is clear and easy for
any user to understand. The complexity of your data will not stop end users from creating powerful
reports.
Note:
The file crdb_dictionary.dll must be installed before you can use dictionary files in your reports.
Crystal Reports reads the dictionary file by using the P2ixbse.dll file. This translation file is based on
the xBase engine used to access dBASE, FoxPro and Clipper databases, but it provides all the flexibility
needed to read dictionaries. See dBASE, FoxPro, Clipper.
Note:
If you upgraded from an earlier version of Crystal Reports that allowed dictionary files, the older dictionary
files (.dct) were based on the Pervasive engine. If you convert those older files to new dictionary files,
the new files will use the xBase translation layer instead of Pervasive. However, the Pervasive engine
installed by the earlier version of Crystal Reports must remain on your system for the new dictionary
application to read the older dictionary files.
The Database Access layer is the layer through which the dictionary file actually reads the original
database data. Dictionaries must read database data using the same routes that Crystal Reports uses
to read the data. The sections on direct access database layers and ODBC data sources describe the
files dictionaries need for reading data.
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Accessing Data Sources