Since 2021.01 you can move the grid data in the local datastores to separate read only gbin files. Because they are read-only they can be shared and there is no need to copy them when starting a new watercoach instance. The gbin files can be created with a stand alone client and F12- database - move time series grid data to separate water coach gbin file. The created gbin file can be moved to a network drive or to an OPeNDAP server. The key gridBinFilesPath contains an absolute path to folder with gbin files. The name of a gbin file should equal the scenario name. The first directory that contains the %scenario_name%.gbin is used. The path starts with http(s) when a open dap folder is referenced.

The instructions below will decribe how to use this functionality for your application

move grid data in the datastore to readonly gbin file

• Start a FEWS SA application using your original localdatastore including grid data
• Run: F12 - P database - move time series grid data to separate water coach gbin file. 
  • FEWS will generate a gbin file containing all grid data. This step might take a while depending on the amount of grid data in the datastore (~15 min for 15Gb).
  • When completed FEWS will compact the localdatastore. This step requires some time as well. 
  • Note: to perform this operation, a free disk space of about 3.5 times the size of the original LDS is required.

Check: When the steps above are completed succesfully you will be able to restart the SA application. The localdatastore contains a reference to the gbin file created in the previous step. All data will be displayed in the SA Client as before, 

WaterCoach configuration

• Configure <gridBinFilesPath> in WaterCoachDisplay.xml. gridBinFilesPath refers to the directory where gbin files are stored.  The name of a gbin file should equal the scenario name.  Good practice is to refer to a property defined in the global.properties file. For example:  <gridBinFilesPath>$GBIN_PATH$</gridBinFilesPath>. In this case GBIN_PATH should be set in the global.properties file. Multiple entries of gridBinFilesPath can be configured in WaterCoachDisplay.xml. FEWS will search in all folders configured for gbin files that match the scenario name. Note: only WaterCoachDisplay.xml 
• Replace the localdatastore for your WaterCoach scenario with the reduced database created with the F12 option.