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Comparing Data Dictionary to SQL Table Structure

Depending on how schema changes are made, the data dictionary and the physical database tables can get out of sync. In an ideal situation, the data dictionary and the sql table structure should be identical. This procedure provides the steps to determine if the database tables are consistent with the data dictionary.

Back Up your Data Dictionary

This procedures uses the compare function that is built into the Transfer In function for Data Dictionary tables. Since there is a small possibility that you could make a mistake and inadvertently change your data dictionary, it is recommended that you create a backup of your data dictionary using the Transfer Out function in the Database Update Wizard.

1. Log into your project.
2. Run the Database Update Wizard as follows:
   • Transfer Type = Transfer Out
   • Specify tables = Data Dictionary Tables
   • Select "Start Transfer"
3. Make a copy the files afm_tbls.csv and afm_flds.csv for safe keeping.

Comparing a Project Data Dictionary to a Standard Data Dictionary

1. Stay logged into your project, where you exported the data dictionary for a backup (see the backup procedure above).
2. Run the Database Update Wizard as follows:
   • Transfer Type=Transfer In
   • Specify Tables = Data Dictionary Tables
   • Select "Next"
   • Select "Start Compare"
3. In the Fields to Show panel select "Hide all Data Dictionary Changes" to limit the presented differences to just the differences between the data dictionary and the physical database table structures..

Caution: Do not click on any of the panel actions.

If you need to produce a results data set that can be manipulated (search, sort, etc) or included in a report, you can create a view of afm_fld_trans in the Smart Client.

See Also

Comparing Data: Overview