Pull/Import Data into ArangoDB from an External Database

Question

I've produced a Proof of concept to automate the export of data out of an external database and save it as a file to then import into ArangoDB using arangoimp.exe. While this method is certainly functional it is unfortunately not going to work due to my company not being able to utilize the file system in the external database or of the local file system that ArangoDB has access to.

The Question: Is there an alternative method or mechanism to import data from within ArangoDB?

Is there any inherent tool I can make use of such as:

• User Defined Functions (UDFs)
• Foxx

I've read about both of these features in ArangoDB however I'm curious if either of these two features can do what I need.

I need to be able to automate from within ArangoDB a procedure/action that connects to an External Database and can then run SQL Queries OR run Stored Procedures in that external database and store that data directly into ArangoDB Collections.

Alternative: Do I need to code/develop my own program?

Many years ago I created a Win Forms app that can connect to several databases. Basically it was my first attempt at learning connection strings and sql injection. That project didn't end up going beyond just that but I've had thoughts in the back of my mind that are telling me I might have to develop an intermediary application to facilitate the data transfer I'm attempting to make happen.

My fear in the latter is that this just opens up a brand new project that needs to be maintained and developed internally which means resources will need to be devoted to it.

Answer 1

arangoimp has --server.endpoint parameter, which would allow one to import the data on a remote machine to an arangodb server. The two machines would just have to be on the same network.