[Refdb-users] Configuring refdb for sqlite

[David N. <dav...@bi...>]

Hi all,

I've had a bit of trouble getting sqlite working as a refdb database 
backend.  Thought I'd share some lessons I learned to save any other 
newbies a bit of time.

First, make sure you've followed the instructions in the manual for 
creating the sqlite refdb database.

Now, the main point to grasp is that sqlite has _no_ access controls.  
It doesn't require usernames or passwords.  _Anybody_ can access the 
database provided the operating system allows them access to the 
database file.

The problem is that the refdb utility programs _do_ insist on username 
and password.  Don't worry, just make up a username and password!  
Seriously, create local configuration files (~/.refdbarc and 
~/.refdbcrc) as per the manual.  Put in bogus usernames and passwords to 
keep the utilities happy and power away.  Follow the manual's 
instructions to create a database and import the supplied stylesheets 
and then power away.

You never need to use the 'adduser' command in refdba since sqlite 
doesn't impose any access controls.  In fact, adduser resulted in an 
error message when I tried to use it with sqlite.

On this basis I've been able to create and delete databases, add styles, 
add and delete references and query the database (using getref).

Hope this helps someone out there.

Regards,
David.