Mnova DB Server (User Manual)

Importance of the topic

The growing volume and complexity of analytical chemistry data demand robust, centralized solutions for secure storage, streamlined collaboration, and reliable provenance tracking. MnServer 2.0 addresses these requirements by offering a scalable repository for molecules, NMR, MS, and other analytical objects, ensuring that multi-platform laboratories can share and manage data consistently.

Objectives and overview of the study

This manual presents MnServer 2.0, a software server that underpins MestreLab’s Mnova Database plugin. It guides users through system requirements, installation, configuration, license activation, user management, server operation, and audit-trail setup. Three editions (MyData, MnDB Group, and MnDB Enterprise) cater to local, departmental, and enterprise-scale deployments.

Methodology and instrumentation

• Software platform: Java Runtime Environment (minimum 1.8, recommended 11) on Windows 7+, macOS 10.5.2+/Intel, and major Linux distributions.
• Database backends: SQLite for MyData and MnDB Group; Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, or SQLite for MnDB Enterprise.
• Installation tools: Graphical installers (.msi for Windows, .sh for macOS/Linux) and headless console mode.
• Administration utilities: MnServerAdmin GUI or CLI for DB connection and user setup; start/stop scripts for service control; TestClient for connection verification.

Key results and discussion

• Three distinct server flavors provide flexible licensing and connectivity: MyData (local, no extra license), MnDB Group (networked SQLite), MnDB Enterprise (enterprise RDBMS support, AD integration).
• Cross-platform installation instructions detail prerequisites, directory layout, and uninstallation procedures without affecting existing databases.
• Comprehensive configuration options include license activation via HOST ID, database connection using MnServerAdmin, and user authentication modes (internal or Active Directory).
• User roles range from read-only to full administrator, supporting up to defined concurrent sessions, with rights easily updated through the admin interface.
• Audit trail captures all data-modifying SQL operations with timestamp and user context; a Python-based Audit.py tool enables filtered searches across the audit log.

Benefits and practical applications

• Centralized data repository improves collaboration and prevents data silos in multi-OS environments.
• Flexible deployment scales from a single‐user SQLite database to enterprise systems with high concurrency and advanced RDBMS backends.
• Granular user and license management ensures secure access control and regulatory compliance (audit logs).
• Integration with Active Directory simplifies enterprise user administration and enforces corporate security policies.

Future trends and potential applications

Advancements may include enhanced cloud-native deployments, RESTful APIs for seamless integration with LIMS, containerization for simplified DevOps workflows, and machine-learning-driven analytics on audit logs to detect anomalies. Expanded support for emerging data types (e.g., chromatograms, imaging) and tighter coupling with electronic lab notebooks will further streamline digital laboratory ecosystems.

Conclusion

MnServer 2.0 provides a robust, versatile platform for managing analytical chemistry data at all scales. Its clear installation path, flexible licensing models, granular user controls, and comprehensive audit capabilities make it an essential component for modern laboratories seeking reproducibility, security, and cross-platform collaboration.

References

• MnServer 2.0 Manual. MestreLab Research, Last Revision: 7th June 2022.