read data into R with some constraints (Just out of curiosity)

Assuming the answer is Yes. I would then ask if RODBC could also be used to
do the same for a file residing on a Linux (Ext2fs) drive or any other file
system for that matter?

Not an arbitrary filesystem, but if it's on a Linux box, and
it's really a big file, you might want to:

1) export the file to the Windows box via Samba.
2) apply the Windows ODBC text driver.
3) use RODBC to read the file.

Far too involved for a file this size, unless this is part
of a dynamic data / updating regularly problem.  In which case,
I'd suggest using a real database (Oracle, PgSQL, etc) and an
ODBC driver.

I say again: the above steps are really too convoluted for
everyday use, particularly if you don't have Samba set up 
already.  

Cheers,

Jason

Indigo Industrial Controls Ltd.
64-21-343-545
jasont at indigoindustrial.co.nz
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