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Error: "Unable to open database connection" or "Read-only database" in emWave Pro

Software: emWave Pro / emWave Pro Plus

Symptoms

When attempting to open or use the emWave software, you may encounter one of the following error messages:

  • "Unable to open database connection"

  • "Attempt to write a read-only database"

  • "Unable to fetch row"

These errors indicate that the software is unable to read or write to the file where your session data is stored (emwave.emdb).

Solution 1: Direct Database Launch (Try this first)

Often, simply "waking up" the database file directly can resolve the connection issue.

  1. Close emWave: Ensure the emWave software is completely closed.

  2. Navigate to the Folder: Open your Documents folder and find the folder named emWave.

  3. Launch the File: Inside that folder, look for a file named emwave.emdb.

    • Note: Depending on your computer settings, it may just appear as "emwave" with a generic icon.

  4. Double-click this file. This will force the emWave Pro software to launch using this specific database connection.

  5. If the software opens without the error, you may continue to open it normally via your desktop shortcut in the future.

Solution 2: Check System & Security Settings

If the first solution does not work, the issue may be related to system resources or security software blocking the file.

  1. Antivirus/Firewall: Temporarily disable your antivirus software. Sometimes security programs mistakenly flag the database file and lock it, preventing the software from writing new data.

  2. System Resources: Ensure you have enough Free Disk Space on your hard drive and that your computer isn't running out of RAM (close other heavy applications).

  3. Reinstall: If the issue persists, try Uninstalling and Reinstalling the emWave software to ensure the program files aren't corrupted.

Solution 3: Reset the Database (Fresh Start)

⚠️ WARNING: This step will delete all your past session history. Only proceed with this step if the previous solutions failed and you are unable to access your data. This indicates the database file is corrupted and cannot be recovered.

  1. Quit emWave: Ensure the software is closed.

  2. Navigate to the Folder: Go to Documents > emWave.

  3. Delete the File: Locate the emwave.emdb file and Delete it (move to trash/recycle bin).

  4. Restart Software: Open emWave Pro normally.

    • Because the old file is gone, the software will automatically generate a new, fresh database file.

    • You can now start recording new sessions without the error.