Using offline folders causes duplicate databases and strange loss of synchronization

Using offline folders causes duplicate databases and strange loss of synchronization

Using the "Always Available Offline" feature causes extra unusable database creation.

TATEMS uses a Microsoft Access database mdb file which cannot be syncronized like
other file formats can..

Here is a simple scenario of what happens:

  • Computer 1 is sharing TATEMS data.
  • Computer 2 is linked to the share via a mapped network drive letter.
  • When computer 2 adds new data it never appears on computer 1
  • When computer 1 adds data it never shows up on computer 2.

The problem is caused because someone on computer 2 right clicked on the
shared drive folder for example T: drive  and selected "Always Available Offline"

Even if you unselect this "Feature" the problem remains.

The solution is to go to computer 1 and stop sharing the TATEMS folder.

Then reshare the folder using a different name. Ex.  "TATEMS Data"

Then on computer 2 re-create the mapped network drive letter pointing to the 
new share name Ex. "TATEMS Data"

You should also turn off Sync feature to prevent "Always Available Offline"  from being
turned on again.

To turn the feature off go to Windows Control Panel and choose "Sync Center"

 Windows 7 Sync Center in Control Panel

Then click on Manage offline files

 Windows 7 Sync Center in Manage Offline Files

Then click the "Disable offline files" button

 Windows 7 Sync Center Disable Offline Files

Then click ok.

This should prevent the user from accidentally marking the linked TATEMS folder 
as "Always Available Ofline. "


    • Related Articles

    • How to make a stop using a Lube Service Type for just one vehicle

      Since you are still using that old Lube Service Type on other you equipment do this.  Create a new Lube Service Type with the same name, but slightly different,  to indicate it not in use any more. Keep it active but make the intervals all zeros.  ...

    • Bulk Odometer And Hours Import Using Excel

      This video shows you how to export from the Bulk Odometer and Hours screen into an excel spreadsheet then paste in your odometer readings captured from another source.  Then re-import back into TATEMS.  This is as of version 4.6.18.  Version 4.06.19 ...

    • Disk Or Network Error

      If you get a Disk I/O or network error the following troubleshooting tips may help.  Normally that error message means you are losing connectivity to the network or your hard disk when idled. (can also happen during usage in some cases) Turn Off ...

    • TATEMS Installing on Terminal Services/Remote Desktop Services or Citrix for Remote Access

      For Terminal Services aka Remote Desktop Service do a Full Install Logged as Administrator and using Add/Remove Programs or the Terminal Service aka Remote Desktop Services- Application installer to navigate to the setup file called: TATEMSMSI.exe ...

    • Database is in an Unrecognized Format or Inconsistent State

      There was a Windows update in May 2018 that started causing Microsoft Access databases that are stored on different computer to become corrupted numerous times a day. See this article here for full details and work arounds. ...