DataLinks

DataLinks Common Problems and Solutions


CGI Timeout Messages

CGI Timeout messages occur when a webpage or search request made by the user is taking longer complete than the connection settings will allow. The following information can be used to diagnose and correct timeout related problems.

The search is too large- Most often CGI timeouts occur because the search parameter used will return a search with over 25,000 records. Users should try to run the search with more defined parameters or break down the search into several smaller searches.
Too many records to for the specified output option- CGI timeouts can occur because output option selected will take to long to display. As a general rule, the brief and file output options should be used for most searches. The more detailed output options, such as the Full option should only be used with searches returning less than 100 records.
Internet Lag- CGI timeouts can occur also occur due to normal internet lag. During periods of peak usage the internet does slow down. Internet lag is often the cause when websites take unusually long amounts of time to respond or when webpages take long periods of time to display. Unfortunately, there is no real solution to correct this however running smaller searches or using more compact output options can help.
Fire Walls- CGI timeouts can be caused by fire walls used to protect networked computers. Fire Walls can create "bottle necks" because all data passing through the fire wall must be checked at a single location. Users may need to check with their network administrator regarding a solution for this problem.


"File Access Denied" Messages

"File Access Denied" messages can be caused by two things. First, PerCon is updating system files and all users are locked out. Second, the user's account is already in use when another search is requested from the same account.

User's account is already in use- Most often a "File Access Denied" message will occur because the user is attempting to login to the system or run another search while a search process is already running for that user's account. To correct this, users should limit the number of people who have access to their account information. Also, if the user receives a CGI Timeout Error due to a large search request, the user should wait approximately 10 minutes before running a new search. This will allow the previous search to complete processing and will then free up the user's account.
PerCon is updating system files- On rare occasions it may be necessary for PerCon to update system files while users are connected to the system. In these cases, users may be locked out and will be unable to login or run searches. Fortunately, these lock outs usually last only a couple of seconds. Users should be able to retry their request immediately.


Slow System Performance

Slow system and search performance can be caused by several factors, including internet lag and abnormally high amounts of server usage.

Internet Lag- During periods of peak usage, the internet does slow down. Internet lag is often the cause when websites take unusually long amounts of time to respond or when webpages take long periods of time to display. Unfortunately, there is no real solution to correct this. However, running smaller searches or using more compact output options can help.
Abnormally High System Usage- Due to the design of the search software, the system is rarely affected by large amounts of search requests. However, in some isolated instances, the server can be subject to slower performance. Running smaller searches or running searches outside peak usage hours can be an effective solution.