ODBC is a 'standard' database connection, it allows access from an application (typicall) to a data source. As it is a standard connectivity mechanism then most databases and applications can be enabled to use it. ODBC is a very diverse connection method and hence the reason why is it widely used. At Easysoft we find ODBC is a fast way to get data out of one system and into another, its a great data access tool. www.easysoft.com