Disk writing challenge: Appending to thousands of files

Here is a challenging problem: There is a batch utility that runs each evening on hundreds of Desktops and lasts about 5 minutes; It appends a row of data to 9000 files on the hard drive. This must be speeded up considerably. The issue as you may guess, is opening, seeking to the end, and closing all those different [login to view URL] problem is most noticeable on NTFS. On FAT32, it is about 100% faster. I cannot find a way around having the files separated. The reason is because each file's contents must be accessed *extremely* fast, and a relational database like SQL and Access have proved to be way too slow. I have to scan each file quickly and those SELECTS take way too long. One large file means that you can write fast but segregates the data as you append each day, so that access becomes slow. **$$$** for the right answer or solution. ## Deliverables 1) Complete and fully-functional working program(s) in executable form as well as complete source code of all work done. 2) Deliverables must be in ready-to-run condition, as follows (depending on the nature of the deliverables): a) For web sites or other server-side deliverables intended to only ever exist in one place in the Buyer's environment--Deliverables must be installed by the Seller in ready-to-run condition in the Buyer's environment. b) For all others including desktop software or software the buyer intends to distribute: A software installation package that will install the software in ready-to-run condition on the platform(s) specified in this bid request. 3) All deliverables will be considered "work made for hire" under U.S. Copyright law. Buyer will receive exclusive and complete copyrights to all work purchased. (No GPL, GNU, 3rd party components, etc. unless all copyright ramifications are explained AND AGREED TO by the buyer on the site per the coder's Seller Legal Agreement). * * *This broadcast message was sent to all bidders on Monday May 16, 2005 9:33:34 AM: Job description has been modified and posted to [login to view URL] ## Platform win32