The IBM Data Server Driver for .NET has better support for .NET features and better performance than the one in the Informix CSDK, however, it does not support any Informix specific data types. Also, since it is actually a DRDA protocol driver for DB2 you will have to define a DBSERVERALIAS using the drsoctcp protocol to use with this driver.
The CSDK driver is preferable is you use any Informix specific data types that DB2 does not support.
To find the driver and a PDF file describing the differences between the two .NET drivers, go to this link:
https://www14.software.ibm.com/webapp/iwm/web/preLogin.do?lang=en_US&source=swg-informixfpdYou will have to login with an IBM ID (you can register there if you don't have one) Click the button for "
IBM Informix Free Product Download" and then "Continue". Fill out the contact form and "Submit". Scroll down to the documentation section and look for "
IBM Data Server .NET Provider for Informix Dynamic Server and IBM Informix .NET Provider" you will see a link to download the document describing the differences between the two drivers and also a programmers guide for the IBM .NET Provider. Further down is the section to download the IBM Data Server Driver.
Art
Art S. Kagel
Advanced DataTools (
www.advancedatatools.com)
Blog:
http://informix-myview.blogspot.com/
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that my own opinions are my own opinions and do not reflect on my employer, Advanced DataTools, the IIUG, nor any other organization with which I am associated either explicitly, implicitly, or by inference. Neither do those opinions reflect those of other individuals affiliated with any entity with which I am affiliated nor those of the entities themselves.