REACHING BASE

OpenOffice.org 2.0 features a new database module based on HyperSonic SQL, a Java-based relational database engine. You can use OOo Base to build anything from a simple recipe collection to a powerful asset management solution. Base is a powerful tool, but for those not familiar with its features, developing even a simple database solution can be a bit overwhelming. This article guides you through the steps of setting up a simple business database application using Base. Planning the Database A Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) typically consists of four parts: • tables • queries • forms • reports Data within a database is stored in tables. Queries are used to extract, view, and manipulate the data. Que- ries can draw together data from many tables, and If you need a quick and easy solution, try building your own database application in OpenOffice.org 2.0. BY DMITRI POPOV that data is then available for forms and reports. Forms allow you to view and edit the data in a table. Think of a form as a GUI for the database. Reports are used to produce formated output from the table, usually for printing.