iDB Datamaster

iDB comes with pre-installed database types and their templates (or forms). They vary from 'Account / Password' managers, to 'To-Do' lists, to simple 'Notes', 'Diaries', etc. To create a desired database, all one needs to do is to choose an appropriate template in DB creation time.

iDB 'Console' (image below) renders icons for all available database types. If the penguin in the center is tapped, iDB lists all user databases; in which case the global datatype selection is considered to be 'all'.

To confine the work to a certain datatype, tap on the desired application's icon. That action limits the global datatype to the particular selection. It would also simplifies iDB conceptually; just tap on 'To-Dos' icon, from then on you may think of iDB as a simple To-Do application, rather than a complex, interrelated data manager.

Global Data Type

The global type selection is used in consequent actions, including new database creation. For instance if you first choose 'Accounts' type, then a new database you may attempt to create is confined to that type. However, in 'All Types' mode you will be given a choice to select the desired database type.

iDB Records

Below is a sample database record. The image is taken from an actual sample record that comes with the application. This particular one is for generic accounts.

If a record field has any meaningful data, and if there is an iPhone applications associated with it, iDB will then attempt to link the field to the relevant application. In which case that field will become 'tappable'. I.e., it will change into a push-button.

Tapping the phone number above will dial the number if it is an iPhone. For an iPod touch it is a no-op. Tapping the URL address will bring it up in Safari. However, if those fields do not have meaningful data (illegal phone number or URL), then the push-button will disappear.

Creating a Database

Enter desired DB name, and if you are in 'all-types' mode, select the desired database type.

If data needs to be kept encrypted, you need to decide it now. Ecnryption is not per-record, rather, database-wide; and changing a database type between encrypted and plain can get complicated later on. (It requires backup and restore, which is not available on all version of iDB.)

At this point you may preview what your selected database what your selected database type looks like:

Once you are satisfied, tap on 'Save' button on the navigation bar. You are done!

Deleting Databases

In 'Databases' screen, tap '-' button on the navigation bar, it will bring 'Delete DB' screen:

Database deletion removes the database with all the records in it. This process cannot be undone.

Deleting databases requires administrative privileges.

Renaming Databases

In 'Databases' screen, tap on the pen ('Edit' button) on the navigation bar. Then tap on the database name you'd like to rename:

Renaming databases requires administrative privileges.

Modifying 'admin-only' Status

In 'Edit DB' screen, simply leave 'Rename to' field alone (if keyboard is up at the time just tap on 'Next', so you would enter nothing for 'Rename to' field), and modify the 'Admin Only' switch to your desired setting. Then 'Submit':

Modifying admin-only status requires administrative privileges.

(**) Even though iDB is for single user only, it already has an embedded ACL layer (access control layer). If sufficient demand received, it can provide access to different users while managing user credentials and access permissions in upcoming versions. Please contact us for your useability needs along those lines.

prev next