Uniwell Lynx Data Files

Uniwell Lynx uses the Microsoft Jet 4.0 database engine and the data files are in Microsoft Access 2002/2003 format. These data files have a .LNX file extension and can be opened using Microsoft Access 2003 or later. Read-only access is granted to most tables in the database so that users can extract data for use in other software or create their own custom reports.

Like any computer file these data files can become corrupted. Some typical causes of database corruption are listed below:

• Losing power, shutting down or restarting the PC while the Uniwell Lynx is running
• Using TaskKill or Task Manager to shut down Uniwell Lynx
• Attempting to open a Uniwell Lynx data file in a program other than Uniwell Lynx
• Intermittent PC hardware faults particularly hard drive or memory
• PC crash due to hardware or operating system problems
• Computer viruses
• Exceeding the 2GB limit for a Microsoft Access database

The following suggestions will help to minimise the chance of data loss due to database corruption:

• Backup data files regularly (at least daily)
  • Close Uniwell Lynx before backing up unless you are using the built-in backup option
  • Use off-site or online backups where possible
• Always exit Uniwell Lynx correctly; avoid using TaskKill or Task Manager to shut down the software
• Optimise data files regularly (at least monthly)
• Do not ignore data file size warnings in Uniwell Lynx
• Archive Data can be used to reduce data file size (typically every year or two based on financial years)
• Keep the PC and operating system in good working order and up-to-date
• Install anti-virus software and keep it up-to-date
• Install an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to protect against power failures