You can update an existing database schema to include schema changes made in a new database. Note that this procedure can also be used to merge two databases.
To load updated ABL data definitions:
1. Make a copy of the database you want to update and save the original. The database should not be empty.
2. Connect to the database that includes the new, modified data definitions.
3. Access the appropriate Data tool (the Data Administration tool if you are using a graphical interface or the Data Dictionary if you are using a character interface).
5. Enter the name of the database you want to connect to and choose OK. The Data tool connects the database and returns you to the Data tool's main window.
6. Choose Admin > Dump Data and Definitions > Create Incremental .df File. The Create Incremental .df File dialog box appears.
The Create Incremental .df File option compares the data definitions in the nonempty copy to the current database schema and creates a new data definitions file. The new .df file contains a record for each difference between the two schemas. The differences include any added, renamed, changed, or deleted table, field, or index.
If a table, field, or index exists in the old database but not in the new schema, the Data tool asks if you renamed the object. If you answer no, a record appears in the new .df file marking the object as deleted.
If the new schema includes a new, unique, active index, the Data tool prompts you to deactivate it. If you do not deactivate the index and there are duplicate keys in the old database, the system aborts your attempt to load new definitions into the old database. If you deactivate the index, the load procedure defines the new index but does not create the index file. You must complete Step 8 to build and activate the index after loading the new data definitions.
7. Enter the database name or accept the default databases, then choose OK.
8. Connect to the copy of the old database.
9. Load the updated data definitions by choosing Admin > Load Data and Definitions > Data Definitions (.df files).
10. If you deactivated any indexes, re-create data in the indexed fields as required to avoid duplicate keys, then reactivate the indexes with PROUTIL IDXBUILD.
11. The Data tool updates the old database schema to match the modified schema. Compile and test all your procedures against the updated database.
