(old)Puppy Linux Discussion Forum

WhoDo wrote: Did you use the sample database? Or did you create your own database file first? I'm using a USB mouse too, with no problem in entering data.

Dummy me....I had not selected either database....so it might be good for braindead folks like me to have selections greyed out until a database has been selected.

I used to be a beta tester for Ashton-Tate(now you can guess my age)....and learned a lot about databases.

This app is great, since it uses the dbf format...the data is portable. Now, the next step in my mind would be being able to modify the fields(number and names) and modify the screen layout.

The fact that you can specify the location of the database file is a real plus....I use a bootable USB drive....so I try to save as much as I can outside the puppysave file.

Once the application is finalized...it would be nice to have it as an sfs file.

It's really nice to see an application that works and is practical!

For consideration:
I remember some applications that Ashton-Tate developers created to allow you to paint a screen and the application would not only create the database fields...but also create the code. I still have one of them and use it for quick database creation.

Thom

1.)The defaulthtmlviewer will be set..yes
2.)Tab order fixed..yes
3.) Form painter on the cards...I used to use dBaseIII ...I remember(shows my age)
4.)Selections grayed till database opens...done

I should have these changes(excluding form painter) done by tomorrow as well as help file...

Keep those suggestions rolling in.

My problem was solved by making a new file. Thanks for the help.

gposil wrote: 3.) Form painter on the cards...I used to use dBaseIII ...I remember(shows my age)

We can start the Puppy for Ancient Ones thread

Latest version 0.3a at top of thread...

Changes:
1.) Help file opens in default system viewer
2.) Input fields active only when new or existing database are opened
3.) Substituted Save for Post
4.) Tab order now correct.

Keep those suggestions coming...if anyone wants to help with help file or translations, let me know

coming along well . . .

Maybe right clicking on field name and table heading allows the option to delete and change field name (undo might be useful too)

gposil wrote: 3.) Form painter on the cards...I used to use dBaseIII

I tried opening the dbf file in dbaseIII - says it's not a validdbase file...Foxpro sorta likes it, but not quite....

Thom

The default dbf format is Visual dBaseVII but next version will have the ability to choose your format as either dBaseIII+, dBaseIV, Visual dBaseVII or Foxpro.

gposil wrote:The default dbf format is Visual dBaseVII but next version will have the ability to choose your format as either dBaseIII+, dBaseIV, Visual dBaseVII or Foxpro.

Thanks so much.

Does it "auto remember" the path to the most recently used file, or do we need to tell it to use that? Would it be possible to specify the default path?

Thom

The default path is set as the install directory, but we can add a change default path in options menu which is in next version.

Do we want this to grow into a full blown free form database creator/editor or should the RDBMS be a separate project.

RDBMS = Relational database management system
(had to look it up)

More interested in the smaller version of the Database
Will it be as good as this one? Hope so

My instinct is to stick with simplicity (Puppy Powered after all . . .)
but I have only used one relational database extensively (Access)
I found it extraordinary how easy it was to mess
and mash data when confronted by that bug that no developer can
seem to get rid of (the end user)

Be interesting how others advise you.
I know those needing a database are very pleased with your contribution, as I am.

Latest version 0.4a posted at top of thread.

Changes

1.) Export open database to a number of formats including Excel/OO/Gnumeric csv file, Latex, M$ rtf (yes Abiword will read it), XML and SQL.
2.) Working online update in Help menu.

Remember if you want PDF or HTML output you can do that at the Print Preview Screen...

gposil wrote:Do we want this to grow into a full blown free form database creator/editor or should the RDBMS be a separate project.

I think you need both versions....for many, the simple one you have will fit the bill. There are others, like myself, that would really appreciate and use an RDBMS,

You might consider making the RDBMS an sfs file, so as not to bloat.

Thom

tlchost said

You might consider making the RDBMS an sfs file, so as not to bloat.

Why didn't I think of that...the RDBMS will be a separate app and I will sfs it. That should make everyone happy, and for those that have hdd install they can convert sfs to pet and install...

Is this strictly a contacts database at this point or can I make my own fields?

I've been using OObase, but I would be interested in this project since OO is so large. But I would need to be able to design my own tables.

Related tables with subforms would really be beneficial, but I suppose that will be more in line with the RDBMS project.

hillside said

Is this strictly a contacts database at this point or can I make my own fields?

There will be an option in upcoming version to create and view/edit your own tables...flatfile only...table linking will be part of RDBMS.

I was interested in one point at writing a database - tried a whole week of experiments in Javascript, XUL, C and Genie and Bash and realised I was not up to the task.

You seem to be doing OK - so in case it is of any use I enclose the graphic from those efforts

Lobster

I love it...i'll use it as splash screen...BTW ppdblite is coming along nicely should have something to show you soon, and big brother ppdb will be able to import ppdblite databases for more advanced manipulation if required.

Good Morning:

Just ran into this thread... This looks great and promising!

Lots of questions.

First and foremost SORTING? Are their plans to sort the data for reports?

Please add to search options "Any Field".

If search returns with no selected records.. not obvious what to do with blank screen. No back buttons or similar directions on how to get back to initial screen.

Inserting or adding new records.
1) Not obvious that Insert means ADD new Records.
2) Once Insert is pressed cursor should start at the "Title Box" ready for input.

3) When inserting a new record Most of the data automatically fills in at the top... except the TITLE. That waits for a save.

Open the test database... .and I was able to change the First Name... when I did so... at the TOP pane. Doing so eliminated "Alfred"... never to be seen again.... unless I reloaded backup.....

More as we progress... LOOKING GOOD.. .KEEP up the good work!

Any way to change the format?