SavvyData has released a file for free download that streamlines the troubleshooting of SMTP mail server settings. The FileMaker Pro solution takes basic SMTP parameters and tests every permutation of the settings, summarizing which of the combinations were successful. To obtain the file, go to SavvyData's blog at http://www.savvydata.com/blog/ (filename SMTP_SendMail_Interrogation.fp7).

A new feature in FileMaker Pro v10 and FileMaker Server v10, Send Mail via SMTP enables sending email without requiring a user's email client application. The Send via SMTP option is also available to the Send Mail script step, providing the ability to send email unattended via server-side scripts. Prior versions required a FileMaker Pro client to send email.

As usual, with power comes responsibility. In this case, it means knowing the SMTP configuration details and correctly formatting email elements. Failure here is easy, often resulting in the general (and least informative) error, 1506: "Email(s) could not be sent successfully".

Related Tip: A common cause of error 1506 is related to the format of the email address given to the To: parameter, when including the recipient's name along with the address. Specifically, it cannot be in the form that includes the full recipient name by using angle brackets around the email address: Full Name . While the Send via E-mail Client option passes along the recipient's name with the email address, with the Send via SMTP option only the address should be used. The angle brackets will be rejected by most SMTP servers. The recommended best practice is to use the alternative form of email addressing that places parentheses around the name, as so: account@domain.com (Full Name). This will send both name and address when using the Send via E-mail Client option, and won't trigger an error when using Send via SMTP.

About SavvyData
SavvyData knows how to make data work smarter. The company builds custom database solutions and data-driven Web sites, empowering clients to collect, use, augment, analyze, transform and share this digital lifeblood called data. Ever the technologist mentors, SavvyData staff teach, write articles, and present at industry events. SavvyData is a division of Lifescope Inc., a 15-year old company based in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Contact:
Lee Lukehart
Certified FileMaker Developer: v10/9/8/7
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