HP 3000 Manuals HP 3000 Manuals
Chapter 4 DATABASE TOOLS
HP ALLBASE/QUERY is Available
by Michael Pardy, Australian Software Operation
HP ALLBASE/QUERY is an easy-to-use query management facility for the HP
ALLBASE/SQL relational database management system. It enables users to
perform queries and generate reports. For advanced users, HP
ALLBASE/QUERY can be used to investigate unfamiliar databases, define
complex tasks, and test applications.
HP ALLBASE/QUERY is the newest member of the HP ALLBASE Relational
Environment, a close-knit family of products designed to increase the
productivity of application development and decision support. The
foundation of this environment is HP ALLBASE/SQL, the relational part of
the ALLBASE database management system. To more fully utilize the power
of this true relational database, HP ALLBASE/QUERY automatically
generates sets of SQL commands in accordance with screen options chosen
by users. From within HP ALLBASE/QUERY, the advanced user can directly
enter SQL commands to create or modify DBEnvironments, and update or
delete data stored under HP ALLBASE/SQL.
Users of applications developed in HP ALLBASE/4GL can move freely between
their applications and HP ALLBASE/QUERY via a function key. The similar
appearance and behavior of HP ALLBASE/QUERY and HP ALLBASE/4GL
applications ensures that transitions are fast and smooth.
HP ALLBASE/QUERY Product Description
HP ALLBASE/QUERY consists of two modules (EZAccess and SQLAccess) to
perform database queries, a report writer (EZReport) to customize
reports, and a command set to further increase productivity. The modules
are integrated under a common interface to form a query management
facility.
EZAccess: Ad hoc Queries and Reports for the End-user
The following features of EZAccess show how a user with no knowledge of
the database structure (or even computers in general) can satisfy ad hoc
queries and generate reports.
* The "Next Step" function key: Pressing this key leads EZAccess users
through the screen forms they must complete to create a report.
* Screen forms and minimal typing: The first two screen forms list all
the tables and columns in the designated DBEnvironment. On both
screens, the user selects pertinent tables and columns by pointing to
them with the cursor and pressing the "Return" key. To sort selected
data, users type in a number or choose a screen option by typing in
its initial letter. To impose selection criteria, search values can
be entered in the space beneath any selected column on the "Search
Values Screen". A list of possible operators and examples of correct
formatting are shown by pressing "Screen Help".
* Detailed context-sensitive help: Context-sensitive help screens are
available throughout HP ALLBASE/QUERY at the press of a function key.
Help screens provide detailed answers (including examples) to a
user's questions, and are an easy way to learn the product.
* The "Display Report" function key: Pressing this key at any time
during the EZAccess selection process will display the report in its
present state.
As EZAccess users become more experienced, they can utilize other
features attached to function keys. These features include screen forms
that enable users to create calculated fields, and insert counts, totals
and averages in reports. Advanced users can directly enter SQL and HP
ALLBASE/QUERY commands.
SQLAccess: Productivity for the Advanced User
Advanced users can formulate SQL queries and a variety of other database
operations from within HP ALLBASE/QUERY by using the SQLAccess
screen-based editor. This module can increase the productivity of
software development by assisting in the design and testing stages.
SQLAccess can also be used to quickly develop end-user reporting
facilities. This can be done by advanced users who include variables in
commands to prompt end-users for search criteria.
HP ALLBASE/QUERY Commands: True Integration
The HP ALLBASE/QUERY integrated interface increases productivity because
it enables experienced users to call a "pop-up" window from almost
anywhere in HP ALLBASE/QUERY and directly enter HP ALLBASE/QUERY
commands. These commands can be used to catalogue, edit and execute
reports, change the operating environment, examine the status of a
report, move the user between the SQLAccess and EZAccess modules,
redirect the listing of print devices, alter the width and length of a
page, and more. Frequently used commands are made available on function
keys, and for complex commands, screen forms are attached which prompt
the user for entries.
EZReports: Powerful Editing Facilities
Pressing the function key "Display Report" displays the results of a
query within seconds, and places the user in the EZReports module. In
this module, function keys are available to edit the layout (format and
spacing), edit the text (headers and footers), and edit the control break
statistics. Each function key calls a screen with default report
specifications.
The user can then overtype new specifications. EZReport is simple enough
for end-users, yet includes powerful features like group breaks and
summary prints for the advanced user. EZReport also supports calculated
columns, current date and time, and left and right scrolling of the
report on the terminal display.
Additional Information
HP ALLBASE/QUERY is the upgrade product from HP Visor for HP-UX and MPE
XL systems. Customers with support contracts will automatically receive
the first release of HP ALLBASE/QUERY. Items created and saved in HP
Visor are fully compatible with HP ALLBASE/QUERY.
HP ALLBASE/QUERY User Guide (P/N 92534-90001) provides self-paced
training and also includes a reference information section. In addition,
most of the information needed by users who have completed the tutorial
is always at their fingertips with HP ALLBASE/QUERY's online help
facility.