Updating your database Updating your database
Selecting 'Database>Update Database' from the menu displays the Update dialog. It is recommended that you regularly perform database updates to keep your Smart Pix database and source folders aligned and to repack your database.
Update performs three functions:
1. Adds references for new files
The first function is to go through your nominated source folders and check for new files, i.e. files you have copied to the folder but which are not presently referenced in the database. These are entered without keywords (in Database Files mode you can highlight these new files by clicking 'Hide assigned files').
You can select which source folders Smart Pix should scan for new files:
By default Smart Pix will scan all your source folders for new files. That is, every folder listed in the Source Folders box will be looked at and if new files are found they will be added.
If you do not wish to scan all of your source folders you can select which to scan by setting this option. Smart Pix will remember the list of scanned folders in case you want to use the same folders next time.
2. Removes references for files that no longer exist
The second function is to check the folders for any files that have been deleted or moved elsewhere. If any files cannot be located the references to them are removed from the database.
- Ignore files in CD-ROM or network folders that are not available
If you select this option then when Smart Pix cannot locate a folder on a removable drive (e.g. CD-ROM or Zip drive) or network the files from the folder will be ignored. If you do not have this option selected you will be prompted as to whether you want to delete this folder. It is advised that you leave this option selected as the most likely cause for the error will be that the CD-ROM is not in your drive, it is sitting on your CD rack.
- Ignore files in hard drive folders that cannot be located
If you select this option then when Smart Pix cannot locate a hard drive folder the files from this folder will be ignored. If you do not have this option selected you will be prompted as to whether you want to delete this folder.
3. Optimize database files
The third function, which is always performed during an update, repacks and optimizes your database. The repack function clears deleted fields from your database tables, e.g. if you are using database file storage and you delete half of your files, the spm_file.blb database file will remain the same size until you perform a repack.
Options:
The final check box allows you to have Smart Pix perform the update automatically, i.e. without prompting you before it deletes file and database references and adds new file references.
You can also set up Windows to schedule an update while you are not using your computer.
Controls:
Also: