Database

TextMaker has an easy-to-use SQLite-compatible and dBASE-compatible database module that is seamlessly integrated into the word processor. This provides all the functions you need to manage addresses and other information. You can enter and edit data, search for specific data and much more.

Note: When editing a database, TextMaker creates an additional file with the extension username.selx. This contains information about the structure of the database (for example, the selected character set, selected records for a mail merge, etc.) and must thus always be moved when changing the storage location if you want to access this information.
When moving the database to another computer, it is also necessary to adjust the user name in the file extension to the user name of the computer.

In this chapter, you will learn everything you need to know about working with databases in TextMaker.

▪Opening a database

In the first section, you will learn how to open a database. The ribbon command Mailings | group Database | Edit database is responsible for this option.

▪Using the database module

You will then become familiar with the powerful database module that is integrated into TextMaker. This module allows you to edit databases and also includes several advanced database functions – for selecting, sorting and deleting records, for example.

▪Importing individual addresses (via document templates)

Here, you will learn how easy it is to write everyday documents with TextMaker: You choose the command File | New and select one of the letter templates supplied with the program. The database then appears. Simply select the desired addressee, click on Insert and TextMaker will create a fully completed letterhead for you.

▪Creating lists and labels

FreeOffice: This function is not included in SoftMaker FreeOffice.

Lists and labels can also be easily produced with TextMaker. In the case of address labels, for example, you select the desired database and place the database fields in the desired arrangement in a large input field. You then select the format of the labels from a list and that's it – printing can begin.

▪Printing envelopes

FreeOffice: This function is not included in SoftMaker FreeOffice.

You can also print envelopes in a similar manner. All you have to do is to select the paper format of the envelope and specify the sender and recipient.

▪Creating a new database

Although the supplied addressbook.sqlite database is sufficient for many users for managing their addresses, TextMaker allows you to create new databases in SQLite or dBASE format at any time. You will learn how to do it in this section.

▪Changing the database structure

You can change the structure of existing databases at any time. For example, you can add/delete fields or change the properties of fields (name, type length, etc.).

▪Importing the Thunderbird address book

FreeOffice: The Thunderbird address book is not included in SoftMaker FreeOffice.

The command Convert Thunderbird address book enables you to convert an address book of the e-mail program Thunderbird into a database that can be used with TextMaker.

▪Mail merge (see next chapter)

FreeOffice: The printing of mail merges is not included in SoftMaker FreeOffice.

Creating mail merges in TextMaker is surprisingly easy: You create a normal letter, place database fields in it and select the database records to be printed. The mail merge can then be printed. For more information, see Mail merge.