The definitive DataWindow - Richard Brooks

The cornerstone of Sybases PowerBuilder rapid application development (RAD) tool, the DataWindow greatly facilitates the retrieval and presentation of information from relational databases. Over the years, it has proven its value as a powerful and versatile object that can solve a variety of client/server data handling challenges, and with each new version its capabilities have been expanded and enhanced. The Definitive DataWindow explores the depths of the DataWindow and shows you how to take full advantage of this popular, but underutilized, technology. Drawing on his extensive knowledge and experience, Richard Brooks leads you from DataWindow basics to its most sophisticated and rarely mined capabilities, providing the insights and advanced skills needed to master this important database development technology. This book focuses on an in-depth understanding of the DataWindow object, a comprehension that contributes to improved DataWindow control skills, database programming, and user interface design.;Other topics include: * Database Painter techniques for creating customized edit masks and display formats * Graphing, from basic functions to techniques for animating graphs in response to user actions * The DataWindow mini-language that creates sophisticated results with virtually no programming * Creating a library of specialized DataWindows * The DataWindows role in distributed application development * The DataWindow Version 7.0 interface * The DataWindow with PowerJ and PowerSite * Sample code taken directly from existing programs that are running in real-life applications For those new to the topic, this book presents background on relational database technology, SQL, and DataWindow fundamentals. An entire chapter is devoted to pragmatic tips and techniques for overcoming real-world database development problems. The accompanying CD-ROM features a shareware copy of StarTeam and English Wizard. Part tutorial, part reference, and part practical guide, this indispensable resource will greatly enhance your use of the DataWindow and your overall database programming skills.