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Autumn 2001
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Northampton-based Ladybridge Systems has launched the QM MultiValue database for PC-based applications. Running on all multi-tasking Windows environments (925, 98, ME, NT, 2000), QM provides a fully-functional MultiValue database at a very low price.
Developed originally in 1993 for in-house use and as an embedded database, QM has been brought to the general market in response to comments from users of the established MultiValue databases concerned that there was no product providing basic MCV technology without a price tag inflated by advanced features that may not be needed in small applications.
Senior partner Martin Phillips said: “We have specialised in Universe and Unidata for some years and have received many queries from users looking for a low priced product for use in small office applications or on domestic PCs. QM was originally seen as a very much extended replacement for the long defunct PI/PC database. It is ideal for small scale applications and for use by developers who want to work at home.”
The QM database provides a high performance hashed file system with full support
for multiple alternate key indices. The QM query processor enables reports to
be generated using a simple natural language interface. Developers can use the
QMBasic programming language to build their own applications. QM includes a
range of development tools that Ladybridge Systems has previously supplied as
chargeable products to Universe and Unidata users.
Asked about the relationship between QM and Universe, Mr Phillips said: “QM uses the same underlying data model and closely follows the public domain MultiValue interface specification. The internal workings of the two products are very different. Because of the close compatibility of the products, developers do not need to learn new skills to use QM and software written for one product will usually run on the other with little or no change. WE do not see QM as a competitor to any of the established MultiValue databases but as a complementary product for situations where the cost of the alternatives would be prohibitive. For uses who ultimately outgrow QM, we see Universe as the logical growth path.”
For more details, please visit www.ladybridge.com.
Ladybridge SystemsLast Updated: 29 Nov 2001