====== Pedigree Database Utility ======

A Database Utility program is available that has three functions:-

  * Database reorganization, to remove the unused space that accumulates in Pedigree Sofware's databases after a lot of data entry and editing.
  * Creating a copy of a database as one of a different size-type, for example, name.ped to name.pdg.
  * Database repair, when PediTree cannot open a database, or experiences difficulties in Check DB or GEDCOM export.

The Database Utility is available for {{:utilities:setdbu245.exe|download}} here, as an installer (version 2.4.5, 860Kb).
Once downloaded, double-click on the file to install the utility program and its help-file. Entries for the program and its on-line help are added to your Start menu under **Start > Programs > Pedigree**. See the on-line help for further information.

==== Reorganization ====

To reorganize a database, proceed as follows:-

  - Close PediTree.
  - Make a back-up copy of the database.
  - Use the Database Utility to check and reorganize the database.
  - Open the database in PediTree.
  - Run **File > CheckDB** to check that all is well.
  - Close PediTree.
  - Re-run the Database Utility and remove the pre-reorganize version of the database that it retains.

==== Repair Process ====

The steps to be taken in repairing a database are documented in the on-line help. They are:-

  - Make a back-up copy of the faulty database.
  - Use the Database Utility to inspect the database and erase any faulty records reported. Then use Reorganize on the error-free database to correct its un-used space records.
  - Open the database in PediTree. Confirm PediTree's request to fix any indexes.
  - In Update mode, run **File > CheckDB** to report and correct any errors.
  - If you have used the Database Utility Reorganize process, then
    - You can now add any missing records and delete any blank records corresponding to deleted records in the old database. (These will appear at the beginning of standard indexes.)
    - Re-run the Database Utility and remove the pre-reorganize version of the database that it retains.
  - If, however, you have **not** used the reorganize process, then **do not** add back any missing records at this stage, but proceed as follows:-
    - Use **File > Save As GEDCOM > GEDCOM 4 Pedigree** to export the whole database. Say 'Yes' to preserving RINs, so that you can easily identify links in the deleted record(s) to ease replacement later.
    - Use **File > NewDB** to create a new empty database, opting to keep the Indexes
    - Switch to Update mode, then use **File > Import > GEDCOM** to import the GEDCOM file exported above.
    - You can now add any missing records and delete any blank records corresponding to deleted records in the old database. (These will appear at the beginning of standard indexes.)
    - When satisfied with the new database, you can delete the old one.

==== Feedback ====

If you have need to use this tool to repair a database, **please** let Murray Kennedy and/or Colin Liebenrood know that you have done so. We need to gauge its usefulness and how frequently it is needed.

==== Changes in New Version ====
Version 2.4.5: one warning changed to error (for Pedigree users); layout tolerant of text-size changes in Win 7 and later; fixed a bug when processing more than one database in a single session.

Version 2.4.4 fixed an issue with a massively-corrupt database.

Version 2.4.3 fixes issues with installation and use under Win 7 64-bit.

The following changes were made between versions 2.3.0 and 2.4.2.

  * Display of stored data, as a percentage of maximum capacity.  This may appear as a single figure, such as 49%, or a dual figure such as 55%/49%.  This latter form shows both the current value, with unused space, and the value that would apply if the database was reorganised.
  * The ability to process databases that have one or more space-files missing.  These missing files can be re-created by using the Reorganise process.
  * Additional hints of the actions that need to be taken to repair a faulty database.
  * On the Maintenance sheet, a display of both the number of records and data occupancy, as a percentage of the total allowed. These figures can be displayed for other size-types (1,3,4,6 or 9 Mb) that can accomodate the data present.
  * The ability to create a copy of the database, but having a different size-type.
  * A number of improvements and fixes affecting the displays and other functions.