Forum Discussion
Enabling direct query for a data source via an odbc driver
I'd like to create a custom data connection to access a Progress database. This would allow me to DirectQuery our student information system (Skyward). I've been importing data using an ODBC but would really like to try out the DirectQuery option. Can someone please direct me to a resource that would allow me to create this? I've searched and haven't been able to find anything on my own. Thank you. -Eric
Anonymous,
By using the custom data connector preview feature, you would need to create a date connector project in Visual Studio to define your own connector logic.
Based on this article, the sample that define logic that enable Direct Query for an ODBC based connector will come soon. Please keep an eye on the updates in this article, and your patience is appreciated.
Regards,
8 Replies
Anonymous,
In Power BI Desktop, it doesn't support to connect to ODBC data source using DirectQuery mode. You can review this article to see supported data source in DirectQuery mode.
In your scenario, you can consider to move data from Progress database to SQL Server database, then connect to the SQL Server database using DirectQuery mode in Power BI Desktop.
Regards,
LydiaLydia. Thank you for the reply. I recently read this Data Connector SDK Preview blog. It states the following:
What you can do with a Data Connector
Data Connectors allow you to create new data sources, or customize and extend an existing source. Common use cases include:
- Creating a business analyst friendly view for a REST API
- Providing branding for a source supported by an existing connector (such as an OData service, or ODBC driver)
- Implementing an OAuth v2 authentication flow for a SaaS offering
- Exposing a limited/filtered view over your data source to improve usability
- Supporting different authentication modes when creating a Power BI Content Pack
- Enabling DirectQuery for a data source via an ODBC driver
This last bulleted Item leads me to believe that I can create a Data Connector so that I can Direct Query my Progress database using an ODBC driver. Maybe I'm reading this incorrectly...? Can you please confirm that this is not the case? And if I cannot create what I'm hoping for, can someone please explain when such a connection would be used? I would appreciate it.
Thank you. - Eric
Anonymous,
By using the custom data connector preview feature, you would need to create a date connector project in Visual Studio to define your own connector logic.
Based on this article, the sample that define logic that enable Direct Query for an ODBC based connector will come soon. Please keep an eye on the updates in this article, and your patience is appreciated.
Regards,
As other users mentioned, there is currently no native support for DirectQuery in the standard ODBC connector.
If you are looking for a simple solution without having to build and maintain your own custom connector from scratch, there is a pre-built option available.ZappySys provides a free DirectQuery ODBC Connector for Power BI. This allows you to select the DirectQuery mode during the "Get Data" process, enabling real-time/live data access for ODBC sources.
You can find the full setup guide and download here: Enable Power BI DirectQuery for ODBC - Setup Guide
Note: While DirectQuery allows for instant updates, keep in mind that it has certain limitations regarding DAX functions and visual complexity compared to Import mode. However, for real-time dashboard requirements, it is a very effective workaround.
