datawindow

DataWindow is a graphical user interface (GUI) tool used for creating and managing data-driven applications. It is a component of the PowerBuilder development environment, which is primarily used for building client-server applications. DataWindows are designed to simplify the process of displaying and manipulating data from databases within an application.

A DataWindow consists of two main parts: the DataWindow object and the DataWindow painter. The DataWindow object is the runtime component that interacts with the database and manages the data. The DataWindow painter is the design-time tool used to create and modify the DataWindow object. The painter allows developers to define the layout, appearance, and behavior of the DataWindow, including the arrangement of data fields, the use of controls, and the implementation of business rules.

DataWindows support various types of data retrieval and manipulation, including SQL queries, stored procedures, and direct database access. They can display data in different formats, such as grids, lists, and charts, and provide features for sorting, filtering, and searching. Additionally, DataWindows can include controls for data entry, validation, and navigation, making them a versatile tool for building data-centric applications.

One of the key advantages of DataWindows is their ability to handle large datasets efficiently. They use a technique called "windowing" to load and display only a portion of the data at a time, which helps to improve performance and reduce memory usage. This makes DataWindows suitable for applications that need to handle large volumes of data, such as reporting and analytics systems.

Overall, DataWindows are a powerful and flexible tool for developers working with PowerBuilder. They provide a comprehensive set of features for creating data-driven applications, and their integration with the PowerBuilder environment makes them a valuable addition to the developer's toolkit.