F/X Server, MySQL, and ODBC: Definitions (Local Data)
Updated on: May 08, 2026
Each time you use Land F/X with Local Data, you're actually accessing content from a database. For this process to work, several components need to be in place – and configured correctly.
Multi-User Land F/X with Local Data (MySQL) is officially deprecated.
We've officially deprecated Local Data (MySQL) installs as of May 2026. For optimal Land F/X performance, we recommend switching to Cloud Data.
F/X Server
Think of the F/X Server as a library containing all information that is necessary for the correct use of our software. This information includes:
- All of our tools
- All plant, site, and irrigation data and symbols
- All callout blocks
MySQL
If the F/X Server is a library, MySQL is the librarian that accesses the information you request from the software. When you need to use any of our tools, you're retrieving data from the F/X Server with the help of MySQL.
ODBC
ODBC, short for "Other Database Connectivity," allows you to connect to a MySQL database, which in turn, allows you to connect to the Land F/X Server and your Land F/X data.
Going with our library analogy, think of ODBC as a request form that you fill out for a librarian to bring you a book. When your ODBC is not configured correctly, you will be unable to communicate with MySQL and, as a result, unable to use our software.
If you've tried starting MySQL and are still unable to use our software, you'll need to troubleshoot your ODBC.