What+DVDs+do+I+own

=Objectives=

We are going to look at keeping a record of a collection of movies.

By the end of this activity you should be able to
 * Create a database using Access
 * Create fields
 * Choose data entry type
 * Create queries to search your data
 * Produce forms to give you output

=Introduction=

You are going to create a [|database] that will keep a record of all the movies a person owns. We will use Microsoft Access as the database software.

The first thing to think about is what information do you think you will want to keep about the movies that you own? Have a look at [|IMDB] which lists nearly all films available. Try searching for some of your favourite films... What information is recorded? Try [|this film] which is the number one rated movie on IMDB.

Your teacher will ask you for a list of what information do you think will be needed.

=Creating a database= Open Microsoft Access

From the file menu select new, then choose Blank database from the right hand side panel.

You will then need to save your database. Give it a filename such as //movie database// and make sure the file is saved in your network area.

Double click on the **create table in Design View** option.

A table is a database. We must first design the structure of the database. Each piece of information we want to put into the database fits into a **field**. For example the move name will fit into a field. The movie name will be a text field (the name will contain letters and numbers) but we could select from any of the other options available. At the bottom of the screen is the information about the field. Notice the field size. This is set to 50. The movie //The day the Earth stood still// has 28 characters if you include the spaces. This means that 50 might not be enough space for a [|very long film name]. Will will increase this from 50 to 100. --->

You need to create your database with the following fields. You can add more if you want. Click on the cross at the top right to close you table design and then save the table with a suitable name. You will be prompted

You should also define a [|primary key]. This is a unique piece of information that goes with each piece of data to help identify it.



=Inputting data=

Now we will enter the data of your movies.

Open your table by double clicking the table name.



Input the details of 25 of your favourite films. You should also make sure that you have at least one film from the 1920s, 1930s, 1940s and so on

=Sorting your data=

Your task is then to write a query that will search your database and deliver all the films from each decade. This will need one query for the 2000 - 2010, and another for the nineties etc etc.

=Some trailers to get you in the mood=

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