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ChronoForms provides a simple tool for creating database tables and a basic data viewer but I often find that I need to be able to edit the table to add or alter columns; to test MySQL queries; or to view some of the data to check exactly what is being saved. This FAQ suggests some tools to help with that.
Almost every web host provides access to some database management tool through their control panel (CPanel, Plesk or similar). Usually this is PHPMyAdmin which is a flexible and fairly straightforward database editor and viewer. Check your web host documents for more information.
If you are testing MySQL queries output from Joomla! then you may need to replace the #_ prefix on the table name with the prefix in use on your site.
AceSQL is a neat, free Joomla! extension that will allow you to build and run simple MySQL statements from the Site Admin. You can also use the input box to cut and paste MySQL queries from ChronoForms debug statements or to type in more complex queries if you are familiar with MySQL.
My personal preference is to use MySQL WorkBench which is a free desktop tool from MySQL. It is friendly to use and powerful but does require that the database is remotely accessible. Remote access is available from many web hosts but not all and may require that you enter an identifying IP address to give your computer access.
For help using MySQL the manual is available on line but is not the most simple and straightforward document :-( There are some better starter tutorials at W3Schools and many other places if you search with Google.
To help Debug MySQL queries in ChronoForms you will find that some are output when you add a DeBugger action to your form event; you can also temporarily turn on Site Debug which will show a long list of queries generated in creating the page. Using the Test View icon to see your form without the template will remove many of these.
