STARTING YOUR DATABASE PROGRAM

 Assuming that your database program is installed and ready to run, log the appropriate directory. It will have a name like C:\DBASE, C:\FOX, or C:\DP-PRO. Then start the program by typing the name of the executable file, i. e., DBASE, FOXPORO, FOXBASE, DP, etc. Once your database program is running, move to the dot prompt.

NOTE

If you are using a database compiler program like Clipper, you do not have a dot prompt. You have to use a special utility like DBU.EXE to create database. You can also use Data+Pro for this purpose. Once you have a structure, you use commands to manipulate the data. Compiler programs do not support full-screen editing commands like CREATE STRUCTURE, MODIFY STRUCTURE, EDIT, BROWSE, APPEND, and INSERT. However, program code can be written to achieve similar results. So, if you are a database compiler user, read the information in this section and write and execute the code designated for your use. In following sections, program code is supplied so you can use those commands introduced in the hands-on activity sections.  

If you are using an interpreter program like dBASE, one from Fox Software, or Data+Pro, you can display a dot (or DP1[1]>.) prompt. The program interprets the commands you enter and responds with an appropriate action. You can display the dot prompt at start-up by changing the database configuration file. This eliminates the need to exit the program’s ASSIST or query-by-example (QBE) interface. In the Data+Pro prompt, the “[1]” tells you that work area 1 is presently in use. Having two or more database files open at the same time means that you have two or more available work areas. The SELECT command, described later, is used to move between work areas.