Choosing a database

A database refers to the collection of subdirectories and files necessary for using the program, typically located in the .../Piper3D/Data subdirectory during normal installation.

Choosing databases

We have the option to use multiple databases. Here, you can switch to another database, as well as add access to additional databases.

Opening the database selection window in menu and icon views:

A list of previously defined databases will appear. You can choose from these:

• When switching to another database, the program essentially restarts with a new room, the starting properties associated with the selected database, etc.
  
  
• Databases cannot be mixed; you can only place elements from one database in a room.
  
  
• The current database path is displayed in the top field. The selection buttons below the start section allow you to set which database should be the starting one, i.e., which one should be automatically active when the program starts.
  
  
• The icon with an arrow can be used to expand the window to define database paths.

Here you can edit, modify, delete, etc., the databases.

• Clicking on the list does not load the database but edits the selected entry.
  
  
• The database must be physically available somewhere on the computer or on another networked computer. In the latter case, you can only access it if it appears as a network drive with a letter designation. Such a database could be a backup of the database used so far during a program update or a simple copy of the current state. In a network, this allows the same database to be used simultaneously on multiple computers.
  
  

Creating a new database

•   To create a new database connection, first find the desired database, name it in the bottom field, and then press the new icon.
  
  
• The selection is correct if you enter the database subdirectory, meaning the system subdirectories belonging to the database appear on the list as shown in the picture.

You can collapse the side to its normal state using the same icon used to open it.

Keywords: #database choice #new database