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These database files, presentation notes and magazine articles illustrate various database design techniques. Send any comments to dan@ae-data.com.

currentUser Database

The currentUser database below is posted in PC and Mac format.
You will need 4D 6.8 to view the code and Client/Server to run it effectively.
currentUser.pdf Basically a README file. Contains the passwords you'll need.
PC version of currentUser database
Macintosh version of currentUser database

Platinum vs. Aqua Interface Pictures

Here are a few screen shots of 4D forms in Mac Platinum and Mac Aqua.
These links take you directly to the screenshots. Use your browser's back button to return to this page. [Sorry, I just want to get these up quickly]
Large Input form in Platinum (OS 9.x/4D 6.7.2)
Same Input form in Aqua (OS X 10.1.5/4D 6.8.1)
Multiple Windows in Platinum (OS 9.x/4D 6.7.2)
Same Windows in Aqua (OS X 10.1.5/4D 6.8.1)
Form with lots of radio buttons (OS X 10.1.5/4D 6.8.1)
Posted at the request (and with permission) of Bart Alcorn
these images show some custom artwork in a 4D application.
Bart Alcorn's Aqua work
Another Bart Alcorn screen shot

AE data mail skins for Communigate Pro

Communigate Pro is a nice mail server that lets you customize the web appearance for users that access their email using a web browser. This collection of files or "skins" was developed for mail.ae-data.com. They were created to validate for HTML 4.0. They are simple, clean and load fast. Screen shots are included in this archive.
AEdata_skin.tar.gz

Unattended 4D Server Startup

This applescript will select a structure file and open it with 4D Server. This uses the new "package" descriptor instead of the old "file". You will have to edit the location of your database and server.
AppleScript Source Code

Server Error Record Generator

This very small 4D database illustrates one way of using record creation to help in debugging code that is run under 4D server. Some notes are included.
The database uses 4D v 6.7.x (can be used with 6.8 after conversion)
sample database Macintosh
sample database Windows

Drag and Drop

This information was originally presented at 4D Summit 98 in Denver, Colorado.
It was revamped for Dimensions magazine in 2001.
arcticle

Making 4D talk to Webstar

This information was presented at 4D Summit 2001 in Orlando, Florida.
The sample database is included here for the first time.
The database uses 4D v 6.7.
arcticle
sample database Macintosh
sample database Windows

U.S. Holiday Calculations

This database generates the dates of Official U.S. Holidays.
Documentation is included in the project methods.
The database uses 4D v 6.7.
sample database Macintosh
sample database Windows

Radio Buttons Dimensions Article

This article demonstrates techniques useful in handling many
radio buttons on a form.
The database included was built with 4D v 6.7.
article with sample database Macintosh
article with sample database Windows

Floor Plans using 4D Draw

This article illustrates a good way to handle floor plans in 4D.
The database included was built with 4D v 6.7.
You will also need the 4D Draw plugin and license.
(obtain from http://www.4D.com)
article with sample database Macintosh
article with sample database Windows

Saving Lists in the Data File

This article demonstrates a method of keeping list information
inside of the data file.
It was originally printed for Dimensions magazine in 2001.
arcticle

Relational versus Flat file databases

This is a clipping of a helpful message I sent to the 4D NUG a few years ago.
It's a good read especially for new developers or those new to relational databases.
arcticle

EXECUTE Demonstration

This sample database shows how to employ the services
of EXECUTE when dealing with commands
that do not compile well when used with pointers.
article with sample database Macintosh
article with sample database Windows