Database Designer

This feature alone makes Organizers Deluxe one of the most flexible, end-user-oriented database products on the market. Using a helper program called Designer you can define structures for your databases (data fields definitions). This allows you to specify the data fields that you need for your application. Also, using Designer, you can specify a layout of the Data Entry Panel according to your needs. In fact, you can define different data fields and data entry layouts for every database. Therefore, one Organizer Deluxe is like many Organizers in one program - you can use it for all your database needs.

Important: Before using any Designer functions close your Organizer Deluxe.

Functions

• Working Directory - use this function to set the Designer Working Directory.
• Create New Database - use this function for creating new databases.
• Modify Database - use this function for adding/deleting fields to/from the existing database.
• Create/Modify Data Fields Layout - use this function for creating new or modifying old layouts for all databases.
• Import Database - use this function for importing database from other database tables.
• Delete Database - use this function to delete a database.
• Repair Database - use this function to repair a database.
• Download Template - use this function to download a template database from the Internet.
• Web dB Server - use this function if you have an account on the PrimaSoft Web dB Server or you purchased the PrimaSoft Web dB Server application.
• Organizer Deluxe - use this function to close Designer and start Organizer Deluxe.

Creating a New Database Definition

In order to create a new database definition do the following:

1. Think over what data fields your application will need and write it down.
2. Start Designer and click on Create New Database button.
3. Click on New Field button and create a new data field. The Field Name cannot be longer then 10 characters. For each new field you have to select one of the following Field Types: Character (1-254 characters, see below all possible types), Memo (multi-line edit field, multi-line HTML field, or table field), Graphic (internal graphic field), Numeric (simple numeric, calculated, radiobuttons, checkbox, autoincrementing), and Date.
4. Repeat step 3 as many times as you need.
5. When all data fields have been defined click on Save button.
6. Type in the name of the new database.
7. If you made a mistake you can modify your database definition by clicking on Modify Database button (you can add more data fields or delete existing fields).
8. Create a Data Entry Layout by clicking on Create/Modify Data Fields Layout button.

Modify Database

This function allows you to modify your exiting databases. You can add more data fields or delete existing fields. You can also change the size of the existing simple-text fields.

Note!

You are not allowed to change the type of the old field.

Warning!

1. Changing the structure of your database should be done only when absolutely necessary. Use this function ONLY when you know what you are doing.
2. This function can result in the loss of some data (e.g. when you remove some data fields or change the size of the field).
3. Your previous backup files will no longer be compatible with your restructured database. Before you use this function make sure your database is up-to-date and not corrupted.
4. All Records Templates will be lost.

Creating or Modifying Data Entry Layout

After Creating a Database Definition you have to create a Data Entry Layout. You can also modify an existing Data Entry Layout.

Data Entry Layout Window

• Allows you to define the layout of the Data Entry Controls on one or more data pages.
• Allows you to define the Data Entry Control type for the selected Data Field.

Data Entry Controls

• Data Entry Controls are used for displaying, changing the data and selecting functions that are data specific.
• Example:
  • If the data field is of type Character (One Line Text) and you want to use this field for storing categories you can select the Drop-Down List data entry control. This control will allow you to select the category from the list or can speed up data entry by automatically picking up list elements based on the first typed-in characters.
  • If the data field is of type Character and you want to use this fields for storing email addresses you can select the E-Mail Address data entry control. You will be able to send quickly email messages directly from the Organizer.

The above data fields can be also stored in the Simple Text data entry control but then you will not have the specialized functionality. Read about all data fields: Data Fields / Data Entry Controls.

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