Table of contents
What is a FileMaker Runtime?
A FileMaker Runtime is a database solution that was created with FileMaker Pro Advanced and does not require an additional FileMaker Pro license to run. The runtime contains all the components required to run the database and can be created for Windows or Mac OS X. A primary database file is created which can be started as a program under Windows or Mac OS X. If the FileMaker database consists of several files, all associated database files are also integrated into the runtime solution and automatically linked together by the primary database file.
Create runtime with FileMaker Pro Advanced
A runtime solution can only be created with FileMaker Pro Advanced. The menu item for this can be found in the menu bar under [Tools > Development tools]. Use the [Add] all FileMaker databases that belong to the corresponding solution. In the area [Project folder] specify a directory in which the created solution files are to be generated. In the [Solution options] to specify how FileMaker should create the runtime solution:
- Enter under [Runtime name] to specify a name under which the new FileMaker Runtime solution is to be created.
- Enter under [Binding key] to specify any key with which the solution is to be bound. If the Runtime solution is to be compatible with later Runtime solutions, make sure you specify the same binding key here.
- Under [Extension] you can specify a file extension for the database files created.
- You can specify your own image as the final screen and a corresponding delay in seconds for how long the image should be displayed when the solution is completed. The image should have a resolution of 382 x 176 pixels.
- With the option [Permanently remove administrator access from the files] you can remove the administrator account from the Runtime solution. In this solution, FileMaker Pro can then no longer be used to make changes that require administrator rights.
- If you activate kiosk mode, the FileMaker database is started in a kind of full-screen mode.
Restrictions of a FileMaker Runtime
The primary database file of a FileMaker Runtime contains all important functions from FileMaker with the exception of the following options:
- The submenu [Manage] under [File/File] is not available in a FileMaker Runtime.
- A FileMaker Runtime cannot access other databases via the network.
- The import via ODBC, the use of external ODBC data sources and the script step "Execute SQL Query" on external databases is not supported.
- Adobe PDF files cannot be created in FileMaker Runtime.
- FileMaker Runtime does not support the display of numerical values as a diagram.
Opening a runtime with FileMaker
Database files of a runtime solution can also be opened with FileMaker. All access rights of the corresponding user account are available. If the administrator rights were removed in the runtime solution during binding, these are no longer available in a runtime with FileMaker Pro.
More questions about FileMaker? It's quicker in person.
As part of our Coaching and training services we will be happy to inform you personally about the FileMaker functions you need for the development of your FileMaker solution. Of course, we will be happy to respond to your individual wishes. Billing is individual and fair in 15-minute increments. Pay conveniently by bank transfer or PayPal.
