Using dbExpress in Delphi Database Applications

Using dbExpress in Delphi Database Applications One of the strengths of Delphi is the support for many databases using several data access technologies: the BDE, dbExpress, InterBase Express, ADO, Borland Data Providers for .NET, to name a few. What is dbExpress? One of the data connectivity options in Delphi is dbExpress. In short, dbExpress is a light-weight, extensible, cross-platform, high-performance mechanism for accessing data from SQL servers. dbExpress provides connectivity to databases for the Windows, .NET and Linux (using Kylix) platforms.Initially designed to replace the BDE, dbExpress (introduced in Delphi 6), allows you to access different servers - mySQL, Interbase, Oracle, MS SQL Server, Informix.dbExpress is extensible, in that it is possible for third-party developers to write their own dbExpress drivers for various databases. One of the most significant features of dbExpress lies in the fact that it accesses databases using unidirectional datasets. Unidirectional datasets do not buffer data in memory   such a dataset cannot be displayed in a DBGrid. To build a user interface using dbExpress you will need to use two more components: TDataSetProvider and TClientDataSet. How to Use dbExpress Heres a collection of tutorials and articles on building database applications using dbExpress: dbExpress Draft SpecificationAn early dbExpress specifications draft. Worth a read. Introduction to ClientDataSets and dbExpressA TClientDataset is a part of any dbExpress applications. This paper introduces dbExpress and the power of ClientDataSets to people who have been using the BDE and are afraid to migrate. Additional dbExpress Driver OptionsA list of third-party drivers available for dbExpress Migrating BDE Applications to dbExpressThis PDF goes into extensive detail on issues you may face when migrating applications from BDE components to dbExpress components. It also provides information on performing the migration. Create a Reusable Component to Connect Delphi 7 to DB2 with dbExpressThis article shows you how to use IBM DB2 as the database for applications written with Borland Delphi 7 Studio and dbExpress. Specific topics include how to connect the seven dbExpress components to DB2 and use them to build visual forms on top of database tables.

To colon or to semicolon - Emphasis

To colon or to semicolon To colon or to semicolon The colon is a common cause of bellyache. The semicolon can leave people dazed and confused. But rather than cutting them completely from your punctuation diet, refer to the following guidelines and youll soon find just the right dosage for all your writing needs. The colon The colon is very useful for introducing things, for example: * bullet points * lists within your text, eg I learned three things from this article: how to use colons, how to use semicolons, and that the writer liked extended metaphors. * long, indented quotes. It can also act like an arrow, pointing the reader on from a statement to the reason for, or outcome of, that statement. For example: she was elated to know what those two little dots were for: she started using them with confidence and glee. The system here always implies a link between the two sections, and can be generally summed up as: * cause: effect, or * fact: explanation. In UK English, always use lower case after a colon. (American style guides usually recommend the opposite.) The only exception is if you are introducing bullet points that are each full sentences. The semicolon Think of the semicolon as the super comma: they act in a similar way, but indicate a longer pause. They can also be used to show a link between parallel ideas. Use them to separate long phrases in a list when at least one of the phrases contains a comma, eg My favourite mediums for writing semicolons are: crayons; 2B pencils; fountain pens, in blue or black; and, obviously, huge magic markers. Semicolons are also good for linking two related clauses. In this way, the semicolon replaces the word and or but eg I prefer the explanation about colons; Denise prefers the semicolon section. So dont be afraid: used fairly sparingly, these two punctuation marks can bring much more clarity and variety to your documents. Bon appà ©tit!