
Visual Basic and Databases
(Shareware Version)

(c) KIDware (206) 721-2556



Course Description:

Visual Basic and Databases is a tutorial that provides a detailed introduction to using Visual Basic for accessing and maintaining databases. Topics covered include: database structure, database design, Visual Basic project building, the DAO (data access object) data control, data bound controls, proper interface design, structured query language (SQL), and database reports. For Visual Basic 6 users, new topics such as the ADO (ActiveX data object) data control and data environment, ADO data bound controls, and the data report object are also covered.

Visual Basic and Databases is presented using a combination of over 700 pages of course notes and actual Visual Basic examples. No previous experience working with databases is presumed. It is assumed, however, that users of the course are familiar with the Visual Basic environment and the steps involved in building a Visual Basic application.

Course Prerequisites:

To grasp the concepts presented in Visual Basic and Databases, you should possess a working knowledge of Windows 95/98/2000/Me/NT.  No previous experience working with databases is presumed.  It is assumed, however, that users of the course are familiar with the Visual Basic environment and the steps involved in building a Visual Basic application (such background can be gained from our Learn Visual Basic 5 and Learn Visual Basic 6 courses).

You will also need the ability to view and print documents saved in Microsoft Word format.  This can be accomplished in one of two ways.  The first, and easiest, is that you already have Microsoft Word on your computer.  The second way, and a bit more difficult, is that you can download the Microsoft Word Viewer.  This is a free Microsoft product that allows viewing Word documents - it is available for download at all the major shareware Internet sites (ZDNet, Download.Com, SoftSeek).

Finally, and most obvious, you need to have Microsoft Visual Basic 5.0 or 6.0, preferably the Professional Edition.  This is a separate product that must be purchased - check out on-line software stores and auction sites.  

Installing Visual Basic and Databases:

The course notes and code for the shareware version of Visual Basic and Databases are included in one single ZIP file.  Use your favorite 'unzipping' application to write all files to your computer.  The course is included in the folder entitled VBDB.  This folder contains two other folders:  VBDB Notes and VBDB Code.

The VBDB Notes folder includes all the notes needed for the class.  Each file in this folder has a DOC extension and is in Microsoft Word.  The files are:

StartHere.doc	This file in Word format
Contents.doc	Course Table of Contents
Class1.doc	Class 1. Introducing Visual Basic and Databases
Class2.doc	Class 2. Introduction to Databases
Class3.doc	Class 3. Database Connection with the DAO Data Control
Class4.doc	Class 4. Database Connection with the ADO Technology
Class5.doc	Class 5. Database Queries with SQL
Class6.doc	Class 6. Visual Basic Interface Design
Class7.doc*	Class 7. Database Management
Class8.doc*	Class 8. Database Reports
Class9.doc*	Class 9. Distributing a Database Application
Class10.doc*	Class 10. Database Design Considerations
Class11.doc*	Class 11. Sample Database Projects
Class12.doc*	Class 12. Advanced Database Topics

(Files marked with a * are not included in the shareware version.)  The VBDB Code folder includes all the Visual Basic projects developed during the course.  This folder has three other folders:  VB5 Code and VB6 Code.  Use the one corresponding to your version of Visual Basic.



How To Take the Course:

Visual Basic and Databases is a self-paced course.  Each chapter will require a different amount of time.  The suggested approach is to decide how much time you can spend each week working through the notes.  Print out the notes one chapter at a time.  Then, work through the notes at your own pace.  Try to do each example as it is encountered in the notes.  Work through the projects.  If you need any help, all completed projects are included in the VBDB Code folder.  


What If You Have Questions?

It is recognized there may be times when you need clarification on some point about the notes, examples, or Visual Basic.  We will gladly help.  The preferred method of relaying your questions to us is via E-Mail.  The E-Mail address is:

support@kidwaresoftware.com

Please include a clearly defined subject for all questions to get past our anti-spamming filters.  All questions should be sent to the attention of Lou.


Who Produces Visual Basic and Databases?

Lou Tylee has developed this course.  He is a partner in KIDware, a producer of quality children's educational programs for over 15 years.  The course notes have evolved based on Lou's experience in writing Visual Basic software.  KIDware may be contacted via:

KIDware
PO Box 28234
Seattle, WA 98118
(206) 721-2556
FAX (508) 464-0455
E-Mail:  support@kidwaresoftware.com
Web Site:  http://www.kidwaresoftware.com

Shareware Version of Visual Basic and Databases

Visual Basic and Databases is distributed under the shareware concept.  You get to try the course free-of-charge.  If you find it doesn't meet your needs, simple erase the files from your computer.  If, however, you find the course useful, you are asked to pay for it.  The current registration fee is US$24.95 (shipping included).  The shareware version includes the first six chapters of the course.  Upon registration, you will be sent the complete 12-chapter course on 3.5" disks (or via e-mail if desired), with all notes and all applications.  Examine the Contents.doc file to get a flavor for what each chapter entails.  

To register your version of Visual Basic and Databases, simply fill in the form on the next page and mail or FAX it to KIDware.  A portion of all registration fees is donated to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, Washington.  You can also download and purchase the full course from our web site at:

http://www.kidwaresoftware.com

REGISTRATION FORM - VISUAL BASIC AND DATABASES, VERSION 1.5

VISUAL BASIC AND DATABASES is offered as shareware.  This means you get to try the course free of charge.  If you use the course, however, you are asked to pay for it.  The registration fee is just $24.95 (add $2.15 sales tax if resident of Washington and $3.00 postage if outside the US or Canada).  Upon receipt of your registration fee, you will be sent the complete 12 chapter course on 3.5" disks (or via e-mail if desired), with all notes and code.  A portion of the fee is donated to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle.  All information on this form will only be used by KIDware.


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KIDware
PO Box 28234
Seattle, WA 98118
(206) 721-2556
FAX (508) 464-0455
E-Mail:  support@kidwaresoftware.com
Web Site:  http://www.kidwaresoftware.com

