Introduction

If you intend to do any of the following, you need to create a Link ID to define a connection between Application Server and a database system:

• Read data from a relational database management system (RDBMS) into an Application Server dimensional model. If you intend to read data into Application Server from text files, you can skip this section.

• Using Entry and Approval, Model Designer, SAP Planning and Consolidation, or the SAP Risk Management interface. For information about creating a Link ID to use for these systems, see Creating a Link ID for Certain Implementations.

• Use SAP NetWeaver BW Connector. For information about creating a Link ID to use for SAP NetWeaver BW Connector, see the Configuration Guide on the SAP Help Portal at https://help.sap.com/viewer/p/SAP_STRATEGY_MANAGEMENT. Choose Creating a Link ID for SAP NetWeaver BW Connector.

Link IDs provide access to databases in a Microsoft Windows environment through Open Database Connectivity (ODBC). ODBC drivers are available from Microsoft and various third-party vendors. Consult these vendors for purchase, system requirements, installation, and configuration information.

You create Link IDs in the Application Server Administrator program, which runs on Microsoft Windows.

For information about creating a Link ID when Application Server is installed and running on a Microsoft Windows server, see Creating a Link ID when Application Server is installed on a Microsoft Windows Server.

If Application Server is installed and running on a Linux/UNIX server, you must install Application Server on a Windows client, create a Link ID on the Windows client, and then copy the Link ID to the Linux/UNIX server. For information, see Starting Application Server on a Microsoft Windows Client and Creating a Link ID for Linux/UNIX.