                             Superbase 2.0
                              for Windows

                             by Tony Curro

    The database wars are intensifying. I remember when you could not
    find a Windows database, now we are drowning in database programs.
    SPC has released their latest version of Superbase.

    Superbase requires 7MB for a full installation. It includes 7
    manuals, which are well done. There is a wealth of features,
    including optional video, which makes this a leader in high-end
    database programs.

    Superbase will directly import a dBASE file without the need to
    create fields. It will use the existing format of the .dbf file. It
    also has import/export capabilities for Paradox, and supports OLE
    and DDE.

    Image support, and Windows multimedia capabilities, can show your
    creativity and make your information even more comprehensible by
    adding an illustration or picture, annotated with voice or sound, to
    create an integrated multimedia solution.  Using the optional SQL
    Library, developers can build powerful client/server applications
    accessing business critical data.

    Features include:

    * Intuitive Interface.
    * Choice of data views, from custom forms to a familiar, editable
    table view.
    * Comprehensive content-sensitive help, including access to Windows
    3.x Help systems. You can even add your own custom field-level help
    to ease data entry.
    * Macro Recorder streamlines repetitive tasks, and generates
    reusable Super Basic Language (SBL) code.
    * Pen-aware for even more new and exciting features.
    
    Development features include:

    * Form Designer handles complete range graphical and logical objects
    to create colorful screens, file links, and multiple master/detail
    data relationships without coding.
    * Icon Bar, Menu and Dialog Box Editors give complete control over
    your user interface.
    * User-defined objects, including push buttons, radio buttons, check
    boxes, images and more, for custom forms.
    * Support for 15 popular image types.

    SQL Server support includes:

    * MS SQL Server v4.2 on OS/2
    * Gupta SQLBase v5.0 on DOS, Windows, OS/2, Novell Netware NLM
    * Oracle Server v6.0 on OS/2 and DOS
    * XDB System Server v2.4 on DOS, Windows and OS/2
    * Sybase SQL Server v4.8 on UNIX
    * Micro Decisionware Gateway v1.01 for DB2 v2.0
    
    The program is very easy to operate. I felt more at ease in
    Superbase, than I did when working with Paradox. The SBL reference
    guide of Superbase was easy to understand and follow, as were the
    other manuals.

    SPC has released VideoPlayer for Superbase 2.0, with a suggested
    retail price of $125. In addition, they have extended the
    competitive upgrade offer for six months. You can purchase SB 2.0
    for a list price of $199.

    Superbase is geared toward business professionals and application
    developers. It will allow you to build robust visual departmental
    and workgroup applications. It will work well for the average user,
    but may more program than they would need, although as the user's
    requirements expand SuperBase 2 will go with them, without the need to
    purchase a more powerful database. Of the high-end database programs
    that I have looked at, my money is on Superbase.


                            Product Information

                             Superbase 2.0

                            List Price $795
                             (see above for
                             current price)

                       Software Publishing Corp.
                            3165 Kifer Road
                       Santa Clara, CA 95051-0804
                              408-986-8000
