Database Definition:

There are four basic steps involved in defining a database. They are: 

i)  Creating a Field Definition Table (FDT) : The possible content of data records should be determined in a Field Definition Table (FDT). This table is set up by using The Line Editor of micro CDS/ISIS. Tag number, name, maximum length, repeatability end possible sub-field identifiers are to be specified for each field. 

ii)  Creating a Data Entry Worksheet: The default data entry worksheet is to be compiled, Worksheet editor facilitates this job. Separate worksheets can be compiled to suit different requirements using the facilities of worksheet editor. 

iii)  Defining the Display/Print Formats : A default display/print format has to be specified. The output sequence and layout of the fields are to be described with the help of Print Formatting Language. This language is used throughout the system to specify field manipulations. Separate display formats can be specified as per the requirement.