To store PDF into BLOB and retrieve into OLE/OCX
We would like to:
1. Store a PDF file (output of a report saved in file server) into a BLOB
column.
2. Retrieve previously stored PDF in the BLOB column and display using either
OLE automation or ActiveX (OCX) control.
I read all related documents in metalink that addresses this issue however cant
get this to work. We have Acrobat Reader 4.0. Here are some issues from the
tests that I did:
1. To load the PDF file the program code that uses BFILE and LOADFROMFILE does
not work since the database is on a remote server and the PDF file is on a
local file server. The DIRECTORY created on the database is unable to find the
PDF file.
2. Though I want the loading of the file to be programmatic, I tried
right-click on the OLE container and inserted object from file. This loaded the
file into the container (Icon on the container appeared) however I was not able
to view the document by double-clicking. An error in Adobe occured: 'There was
an error opening this document. A file read error occured'. My guess is the
'Insert Object' did not insert the file properly into the BLOB.
3. When trying to display the PDF file stored in file server (in case storing
into BLOB does not work), I used an OCX control, right-clicked and Insert
Object and select Adobe Control for ActiveX. The problem here is when I run the
form, the OCX control shows up empty and I have to 'Insert Object' again in
runtime. Once I manually insert object from runtime the GET_INTERFACE POINTER &
SET_PROPERTY works fine is displaying the document. Is there any way to
maintain the control property of the OCX when the form is run?
4. Are there any workarounds and better solution to store PDFs into BLOBs and
retrieve and display in OLE/OCX controls? Using temporary file into local drive
is not an issue.
5. Would I be able to make use of 'PDF.PdfCtrl.1' OLE class?
6. Does OLE automation work for Acrobat Reader 4.0.?
I would appreciate all the help.
Shyam