Curious about file formats

jumbojs · December 16th, 2008, 10:04 PM

Say I wanted to save data from my app. I don't want to use a database or xml. Maybe I want to save it to my own file format like microsoft does with .doc files. How does one go about that and is it a good way to store program information if you don't want to use a database.

thanks

dparsons · December 16th, 2008, 10:21 PM

Google is a fantastic resource: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&r...es&btnG=Search

From the SERP:

http://www.c-sharpcorner.com/UploadF...mFileType.aspx

hth.
-Doug

planoie · December 17th, 2008, 09:37 AM

Why not use a standard format? There are many more tools available for working with standard formats. Unless you have extreme security needs it doesn't make sense to me to use valuable development time to create and maintain a storage scheme/format. Instead focus your energy on developing your domain specific solution. There are certainly ways to secure data in standard formats using existing encryption methods so you can still protect data stored in common formats.

DrPurdum · December 18th, 2008, 09:55 AM

The type of file that makes sense depends upon what you plan on storing and how will it be accessed. For example, if you're just writing memos or emails that don't require updating (perhaps you just rewrite them), a standard sequential text file is perfect. On the other hand, if you are doing a small "client" app where demographic data (e.g., name address, etc.) must be updateable, fixed record length random access files offer a viable solution. Such random access files can be searched and updated quickly, but don't have the associated overhead of a fullblown DBMS. Chapter 13 in my book lays this out and also gives some thoughts on when to use sequential, random access, or DBMS files during the design stage.

While obviously I'd like you to buy the book, make a trip to your local bookstore and thumb through Chapter 13 and see if it might help.

Dr. Purdum