Transferring data from old data base to Access

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the possibility of transferring a large database of over 20,000 entries from an old DBase format to a modern database system like Microsoft Access. Participants explore the feasibility of such a transfer without manual data entry and inquire about the nature of DBase.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for clarification on what DBase is and whether it is possible to transfer the entries to a modern database without manual input.
  • Another participant suggests that there are various conversion programs available, indicating that the cost for such software should be under $500.
  • It is proposed that if the data structure is relatively simple, exporting the DBase format to CSV and then importing it into Access could be straightforward.
  • A participant shares their experience with DBase and FoxBase, expressing disappointment with Access and suggesting that simpler applications could have been built in the older systems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the ease of transferring data, with some suggesting straightforward methods while others reflect on the limitations and frustrations of using modern software compared to older systems. No consensus is reached on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions about the data structure being "reasonably flat" and the availability of conversion tools, which may not apply universally. The discussion does not resolve the technical specifics of the transfer process.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in data migration, database management, or those working with legacy systems may find this discussion relevant.

John O' Meara
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Hi,
I have a friend who has a friend who has a data base of 20000+ enteries. This data base was constructed using something called D base nearly twenty years ago. Now, they want to know is it possible to transfer the 20000 odd enteries to a modern data base without having to type in the enteries individually to the new database like Access.
(1) What is D base, does anyone in this forum know?
(2) Is it possible software wise to copy the D base enteries to Access or other new data base and if so how?
Thanks for helping.
 
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Google is your friend. There are lots of conversion programs out there. The cost should be under $500.
 
If the data is reasonably flat (ie not a complex set of linked tables) then just dumping the dbase format to comma separated fields (CSV) then importing it into access would be easy.

IIRC Excel will read DbaseIII files into a spreadsheet directly.
 
Ashton Tate dBase was a wonderful program, and it was pretty much reverse-engineered as FoxBase, which also included a nice compiler. MS bought FoxBase before releasing the perversion that is Access, and they should have provided free conversion tools. Having written application programs for dBase and FoxBase for years, I was quite disappointed with Access when I ended up having to build some very simple applications (it would have been far simpler in dBase or FoxBase) for a customer.
 

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