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DBFPack compresses dBase IV files associated with Lotus Approach applications. It can be used with any software that supports an ActiveX interface and provides all the functionality you are likely to need.

When a record is deleted from a database table it isn't removed from the dBase IV file; it's marked as logically deleted and hidden from the user. The dBase IV file doesn't reduce in size and operations like finds and sorts still have to process the deleted records in order to exclude them.

Compressing a dBase IV file physically removes deleted records and rebuilds the Approach index file. File sizes are reduced, performance increased and index files are maintained in good condition. Furthermore, compression can help you recover from minor index corruptions. For example, following a system crash during data entry, it isn't uncommon to receive messages that a certain record is locked by another user even when only one operator has the Approach file open. Compressing the dBase IV file and hence rebuilding the index file, often clears such messages.

DBFPack is a free standing component, distributed as a 32 bit ActiveX DLL and reusable in any number of applications. DBFPack is an extension to your application's Object Model. You use DBFPack just as you would any of the standard classes, by calling its methods. When you add DBFPack to a project or document, it becomes part of the development and run-time environment and provides new functionality for your application.

DBFPack leverages your capabilities as an Approach developer by giving you the ability to automate compression routines whilst retaining your familiar programming environment.

All Northwind products are licensed on a per-developer basis and include a royalty-free runtime distribution licence. This simple approach frees companies from the accounting complexities of runtime fees and royalties. Simply purchase a development licence for each person using the product and get a royalty-free runtime licence included at no extra charge.

DBFPack requires knowledge of a programming language such as LotusScript or Visual Basic but you don't have to be a developer yourself to enjoy its benefits. Northwind IT Systems provides comprehensive consulting and development services to help you achieve your project goals.

With DBFPack you can:

• Display the Browse for Folder dialog and compress all dBase IV files in the selected folder.
• Display the Open File dialog and compress the selected dBase IV file.
• Specify a folder path and compress all dBase IV files in the folder.
• Specify a dBase IV filename and compress the file.
• Specify an array of dBase IV filenames and compress the files.

DBFPack is designed to be safe in a multi-user environment. It will not compress a dBase IV file if its already open but will halt and raise a run-time error which you can handle in a way appropriate to your application.

DBFPack supports three Approach language versions:

• English
• French
• German

Sample application and online help:
When you install DBFPack, not only do you receive the ActiveX component but also the necessary resources to begin using it in the shortest possible time. The package includes:

• Sample Approach application showing how to use DBFPack in a LotusScript environment.
• Comprehensive online help in Compiled HTML format (.chm).
• Readme file containing late breaking product information and contact details.
• Licence Utility to display the status of your licence and upgrade a trial copy to a fully licensed version.

Free support:
All registered users of DBFPack are entitled to free online support, included in the price of the product. This is an e-mail based service, please see our Support page for more details

System Requirements:

• A computer running Microsoft Windows 95, 98, ME, NT4, 2000 or XP.
• Lotus Approach 97 or later.
• Administrator rights are needed to run the installation program on Windows NT4, 2000 and XP.

DBFPack should only be used to compress files associated exclusively with Lotus Approach applications. It cannot maintain native dBase IV index files (.mdx, .ndx) which may be present if the tables are shared by other applications.