CODEWITHSUNDEEP
c#.netsql-serverwinforms
Saim Nasser
Saim Nasser

Reputation: 81

SQL Server network interfaces error 52- Unable to locate a database at runtime installation

I am creating a POS system in Windows Forms (C#) in which I use a SQL Server database file (.mdf) to store items (completely offline). When I install the application on my computer, it works fine, but when I install it on my clients PC, an error happens:

(provider: SQL Network Interfaces, error: 52 - Unable to locate a Local Database Runtime installation"

I read somewhere that the problem is caused due to the fact that the connection string of the database of my client's PC is different. I tried to add the connection string dynamically on runtime but again it only worked on my computer.

Another reason that might be causing the problem is that I used 'server-based database' since local database option isn't available in Visual Studio 2017 for some reason.

Another solution I looked up stated that I should install SQL Server Express on my client's PC. That also failed (maybe I have to set it up in a way or something).

I also tried adding the database.mdf and database_log files in the setup folder.

Lastly I tried installing 3rd party installers (Advanced installers 15.8 and InstallShield Wizard in VS 2015) which also failed.

(I have provided the code for the connection of database taking place and the connection string)

    public void ConnectToDB()
    {
        DBConnection = new SqlConnection(@"Data Source = (LocalDB)\MSSQLLocalDB; AttachDbFilename=C:\Users\SAIM NASSER\Desktop\app layer\data layer\Database1.mdf; Integrated Security = True");

        DBConnection.Open();

        ResultSet = new DataSet();
    }

Upvotes: 2

Views: 12403

Answers (1)

GuidoG
GuidoG

Reputation: 12059

If I understand you correct, you want to use LocalDB
That means using Sql Server without installing a full sql server, but just the localdb part from sql server express.

For this to work you need to install the LocalDB Driver, which can be found here
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=29062

You need only the ENU\x64\SqlLocalDB.MSI

This is the only thing you need to install in your clients computer, I believe it can also be installed silent, you have to research a bit for that.

And yes, you also should change the connection string on the clients computer, you need to alter it so it points to the MDF file on the clients computer, because that location will probably be different then on your computer

EDIT
To get the connection string working, you can try this
On the clients computer, create a text file and rename the extension to .udl
So for example you have a file test.udl
Now from explorer, double click it, this will open the datalink editor.
From here you can enter/choose different settings, and click on the test connection button.
Once you get a working connection, save it, and open this file with notepad.
Inside you will find the working connection string
Hope this helps

Upvotes: 4

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