Paradox DB has as the original powerhouse of database management systems since 1985. The software captured 85% of the desktop database market before Microsoft Access took over, thanks to its smart query optimization and practical features.
The Query By Example (QBE) interface made Paradox DB a game-changer for regular users who needed simple database controls. Today’s database professionals need proper access methods to work with Paradox database viewers, editors, and readers.
This guide shows you the exact techniques to handle Paradox DB – from basic file structures to access methods and data transfer steps.
Paradox DB File Structure Basics
Paradox DB uses a multi-file architecture that splits table data across different file types. Here’s what you need to know about each file:
The Main Files:
- .db files hold your actual table data in rows and columns
- .px files store the primary index when you create a table with a key
- .mb files keep your binary large objects (BLOBs)
Secondary index files add two more extensions to your database – .X?? and .Y??. These files speed up your database operations by tracking unique field values and their record locations.
Every Paradox table needs a key field that sits at the start of your table structure. Take a customer database – the CustomerID works as your primary key. You can use real data or auto-generated numbers for these keys.
Table relationships work in two ways:
- Parent tables store main records
- Child tables keep related information
You’ll see either one-to-one or one-to-many connections between tables. One-to-many lets a parent record link to multiple child records, while each child points to just one parent.
The big update came with version 7 in 1995. This version brought better secondary indexes and longer file paths – up to 260 characters instead of the old 70-character limit.
Field names follow these rules:
- Maximum 25 characters
- Most characters work fine
- No spaces at the start
- Avoid commas, pipes, and exclamation marks in queries
- Put special characters in quotation marks
Modern Ways to Access
Your Paradox database works with several powerful access tools. The type 4 JDBC drivers support Paradox versions from 3.0 through 11.x handles everything from basic transactions to client/server operations.
Python users get direct table control through the pypxlib library. The tool reads fields, counts rows, and moves through data. You’ll also find options to add or remove rows using the library’s built-in tools.
The Borland Database Engine (BDE) remains a fundamental tool for Paradox databases. It powers Borland’s C++ Builder and Delphi products. While the API looks complex, ready-made wrapper classes make database tasks simple.
Java developers should try the Paradox Java Driver with JDBC 4. Just install ‘com.googlecode.paradox.Driver’ and set up your connection string. The driver handles encrypted data, supports all field types, and fixes common issues with null values.
The paradoxReader tool turns your Paradox files into CSV format right from the command line. Process your table data row by row using the PDXTableListener interface.
ODBC connections give you the most flexibility. Set up your data source with the right driver version and database folder through the ODBC Administrator. This connects your database to most development tools.
HXTT Paradox fits special needs – like memory-only databases, compressed files, and remote access through HTTP, FTP, and SAMBA. Perfect for cross-platform projects or Java system integration.
Moving Your Paradox DB Data
The SQL Server Import and Export Wizard makes your Paradox data transfer simple. SQL Server Import and Export Wizard moves your data straight into SQL Server databases. Just create your new database in SQL Server Management Studio and pull data from your Paradox tables.
Your data types need exact matches between systems. The ODBC Paradox driver handles this mapping – ALPHANUMERIC fields become SQL_VARCHAR, and DATE fields turn into SQL_DATE. Watch out for size limits though – blank ALPHANUMERIC columns default to 255 bytes.
FireDAC gives you another way to move your data through ODBC connections. Your existing Paradox files stay compatible while you bridge to newer systems. The Advantage Database works great if you want to keep your ISAM structure – plus it comes with a free local engine.
The ESF Database Migration Toolkit speeds up big moves. This tool copies your whole database setup – tables, data, schemas, and more. It fixes character sets between systems and loads data fast with bulk-insert features.
The pxtools package suits open-source fans. Convert your Paradox databases to SQL, CSV, or XML formats. It works with common field types like ALPHA, DATE, SHORTINT, LONGINT, CURRENCY, NUMBER, LOGICAL, and TIMESTAMP. Remember – Paradox files need fixes for dates before January 1, 1970.
Back up everything before you start. Then set up your new database structure, match your data types, and test thoroughly. Keep checking your data accuracy, queries, and system speed throughout the move.
What You Learned About Paradox DB
Paradox DB shows the power of smart database design through its Query By Example interface and query optimization features. The multi-file system with .db, .px, and .mb files gives you solid control over your data management tasks.
Your database work gets easier with modern tools like JDBC drivers and pypxlib for Python. These options keep your database running smoothly across different systems. The right migration tools help move your data to new database platforms without losing information.
Knowing Paradox DB file structures, access methods, and migration steps makes you better at handling older systems. Many companies still need these skills to work with historical data or switch to newer platforms.
This guide gives you real solutions for your Paradox DB tasks. You’ll handle database maintenance and migration projects with confidence, no matter what your role demands.
