Optim™ supports the use of any number of database instances. However, there must be a unique DB Alias in the active Optim Directory for each database instance. A DB Alias serves as a high-level qualifier for naming database tables and provides a single name for connecting to a particular database. You can define the necessary DB Aliases at installation. You also can use the Configuration program to add DB Aliases after installation by selecting Configuration Assistant from the Help menu or by selecting Create/Update DB Alias from the Tasks menu.
The first step in creating a new DB Alias is to specify the Optim Directory where you want to store that DB Alias. The Configuration program displays the Specify Optim Directory dialog.

The option to Use Existing Optim Directory and Registry Entry is selected. Specify the name of the Optim Directory you want to use. To select from a list, click the down arrow. To continue, click Proceed.
The Configuration program opens a query dialog.

If you plan to use Optim to access user tables (other than Optim Directory tables) on the database, select the Create/Update DB Alias for the Optim Directory Database check box. If you want to create a DB Alias for another database (or server), clear the check box.
On the Create/Select DB Alias dialog, specify the DB Alias name.

From this point, the task is similar to creating a DB Alias when you configure the first workstation. For details, see Create DB Aliases.
You specify the DB Alias DBMS and then connect to the database with a user ID, password, and a connection string or other qualifier. You also create or update the DB Alias, packages, plans, or procedures. The following guidelines apply:
After you create the DB Alias, you can create Optim Primary Keys and Load the Sample Tables included with the Optim solution if these options are available for the DBMS. If you have a Data Privacy license, you also can load and drop the Data Privacy Data Tables provided with the solution if this option is available for the DBMS. The Configuration program then prompts you to create or update DB Aliases for other databases and repeats the process. Otherwise, the process completes and returns to the main window.