What's Next?

In this chapter, you saw examples of database access from Delphi programs. I covered the basic data-aware components, as well as the development of database applications based on standard controls. I explored the internal architecture of the TDataSet class and of field objects and discussed many events and properties shared by all datasets and used by all database applications. Even though most of the examples used the ClientDataSet component accessing local data, the component is often also the gateway for data in a SQL server (in a client/server architecture) or in a remote application (in a three-tier architecture). I discussed calculated fields, lookup fields, customizations of the DBGrid control, and some advanced techniques.

I haven't delved into the database and data-access side of the picture, which depends on the type of database engine and server you're using. Chapter 14 will focus on this topic, with an in-depth overview of client/server development using the dbExpress library provided by Borland. I'll also cover InterBase and the IBX component, giving some elements of a real-world application.

Following chapters will continue to explore the database side of Delphi programming, discussing ADO connectivity and components, Borland's three-tier architecture (DataSnap, formerly MIDAS), the development of data-aware controls and custom dataset components, and reporting technologies.