Storing data in table format (Without SQL)

**sudox** · 11-22-2010

Is it possible to store data in a file in a table-like format (similar to SQL) but without SQL? I don't want my user to have to run a SQL server to run their program (that would be ridiculous), but I'm in need of a better storage method than just storing things in a text file.

My program is a virtual study program called VFC (Virtual Flash Cards). As of now, when the user builds a list to study from I have the program store the word, then go to the next line, store the definition, then go to the next line, repeat. When the user is done entering words and definitions it prints EOF on the last line. There are many flaws to this system and I'm sure any decent programmer can see that; so what should I do? I'm looking for a system where I can have it store words and definitions just as you would in a SQL database (but without it of course). Any suggestions? Thank you!

**rags_to_riches** · 11-22-2010

What about an embedded SQL like SQLite? Best of both worlds.

**sudox** · 11-22-2010

Any tutorials or something I could consult for the API to do something as simple as storing a table with 2 columns?

**Fordy** · 11-22-2010

If you want to just store pairs also look at something like HamsterDB (hamsterdb embedded database: main page)

Also SQLite (as mentioned) is a good library and has lots more to offer

**sudox** · 11-22-2010

How heavy are those (in size)?

**Fordy** · 11-22-2010

Originally Posted by sudox

How heavy are those (in size)?

Not much...how heavy do you want?

**sudox** · 11-22-2010

Well I distribute my program via Mediafire and so I'd like to keep the size of the total program (archived and compressed in a .rar) <5MB

**Fordy** · 11-22-2010

SQLite can come in 2 files - a 'C' file and a header that weighs in at about 4.5Mb

On compiling it, well it depends on your compiler and optimizations.

I was messing with it a while ago to see how it worked, so I just rebuilt it for release with a few added boost code for good measure and it weighed in at > 500Kb for the exe. So no...not really that heavy.

And when you consider all the fat-arsed java libraries out there I wouldn't be too worried about your app's size

**sudox** · 11-22-2010

Okay, I'll look into it; thanks :P

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