Here is a summary of terms used in our Web Site

Database: This term refers to a collection of tables under one 'umbrella'. The database comprises a single file in your PC, so it is very simple to copy to other machines or to save onto a disk. The file format is identical to Microsoft Access. In the earlier Foxpro style of database, one could end up with a large number of files each of which was called a 'database', so this method of collecting everything under one file is very convenient.

Table: A Table comprises a collection of records. Each record refers to a single item (eg a single client or a single item of stock). Record: A record comprises a collection of fields. Each field is normally designated to contain either text (in which case you need to decide the maximum length) or a number. Typical field names would be: 'surname', 'phone number', 'post code' etc. Othe field types store time/date format and logical (true/false) fields.

Index: Indexes are files which are contained within the database. A number of indexes can be attached to each table. The index is a device to set the order in which you view the records in a table. However, it does not change the table in any way. Typical indexes would be 'in order of surname' or 'in order of membership number'. Indexes are used to search for a particular record by 'surname' or by 'membership number', for example.

Building Management Systems: This term, abbreviated to BMS, describes the services one would expect to find in a large modern building. The term includes fire alarms, access control, heating and air-conditioning control, temperature sensing.

Server: We have 4 computers on a network in our office but why no server? And what is a server anyway?

When a number of computers share a similar function, a central storage point proves to be valuable in that it makes backing up of files very much easier for the company as a whole. Files for all the users in the office are only stored temporarily on the local PCs, the important permanent copies are stored in the central computer or server (usually a box running Windows NT) and this makes back-ups very easy as they are all in the same place rather than scattered around the office.

Another function for a server is to provide a link to the Internet and email. A server will handle shared access to the Internet by acting as a post office for emails and it also enables simultanious access to the Internet for the workers in the office. By the way, the term 'intranet' refers to the network of computers attached to a server and 'fire-wall' is used as a description of a server whose software provides protection from attempts to gain illegal access and also, of course, viruses.

(description of Server added 25th Oct 99)