2. Overview The management of databases is the number one use of computers today. Â A database (or relational database) is a collection of one or more (usually related) tables that has been created with database-management software. Â For our course, we will be using Microsoft Access for the database management software. Â We can connect our applications to databases using ADO.NET (ActiveX Data Objects .NET). Â This technology allows programs to access data seamlessly from multiple, varied, and distant servers. Â Â
3. Wizards vs. ADO Our text and Microsoft recommend the use of database wizards to complete the connections and management of data. Â However, there is another way. You can connect to databases in code and be in complete control of what is happening within your application. Â This is what I prefer because if I can't see the code to a process, I can't debug it! Â Does the wizard have a place in programming? Â SURE! Â I do not use it at all professionally, but I can see the wizards having a place within small applications. vs.
4. How does ADO work? Connection – This uses a connection string to say how we will connect to data and what format the data is in Data Adapter – Converts database code to VB code (to simplify process). …. Populates dataset with data Data Set – Snapshot of data when you read it from the database Command Builder – Allows you to add, edit, delete data
5. Bind Controls? ADO wizard allows you to bind controls. This is a real easy way of displaying information, but does complicate review of data and verification of accuracy. You can bind controls as well using ADO in code, but I find it just as easy to create a process to read and write to the controls.
6. DataGridView Control The datagridview control is a very popular method of displaying information in a VB application. You may bind to this control or add/edit items in code.