====== Pedigree Database Utility ======

A Database Utility program is available that has four functions:-

  * Making a back-up copy of a database.
  * Database reorganization, to remove the unused space that accumulates in Pedigree Software's databases after a lot of data entry and editing.
  * Creating a copy of a database as one of a different size-type, for example, name.ped to name.pdg.
  * Database repair, when PediTree cannot open a database, or experiences difficulties in Check DB or GEDCOM export.

The Database Utility is available for {{:utilities:setdbu250.exe|download}} here, as an installer (version 2.5.0, 2.6Mb).
Once downloaded, double-click on the file to install the utility program and its help-file. Entries for the program and its on-line help are added to your Start menu under **Start > Programs > Pedigree**. See the on-line help for further information.

==== Reorganization ====

To reorganize a database, proceed as follows:-

  - Close PediTree.
  - Run the Database Utility and make a back-up copy of the database.
  - Check and reorganize the database, then exit the utility.
  - Open the database in PediTree.
  - Run **File > CheckDB** to check that all is well.
  - Close PediTree.
  - Re-run the Database Utility and remove the pre-reorganize version of the database that it retains.

==== Repair Process ====

The steps to be taken in repairing a database are documented in the on-line help. They are:-

  - Run the Database Utility and make a back-up copy of the faulty database.
  - Inspect the database and erase any faulty records reported. Then use Reorganize on the error-free database to correct its un-used space records. Exit the Utility.
  - Open the database in PediTree. Confirm PediTree's request to fix any indexes.
  - In Update mode, run **File > CheckDB** to report and correct any errors.
  - You can now add any missing records and delete any blank records corresponding to deleted records in the old database. (These will appear at the beginning of standard indexes.)
  - Re-run the Database Utility and remove the pre-reorganize version of the database that it retains.
  
==== Feedback ====

If you have need to use this tool to repair a database, **please** let Colin Liebenrood know that you have done so. We need to gauge its usefulness and how frequently it is needed.

==== Changes in New Version ====
Version 2.5.0: Added new Backup and Restore Sheet; option to add extra information in Record-type Sheets; some bugs corrected.

Version 2.4.5: one warning changed to error (for Pedigree users); layout tolerant of text-size changes in Win 7 and later; fixed a bug when processing more than one database in a single session.

Version 2.4.4 fixed an issue with a massively-corrupt database.

Version 2.4.3 fixes issues with installation and use under Win 7 64-bit.