Distributed database software supplier Henley Business Software Ltd claims it will beat Ashton-Tate’s dBase IV and SQL Server to the market in the race to provide dBase developers with SQL support. In the second quarter of this year, the Henley-on Thames-based company plans to offer two new products from WordTech Systems of California, designed to link dBase with SQLBase. The first of these, dXBL, is described by Henley as a dBase III Plus work-alike, while Quicksilver, the second, is a dBase compiler which provides transparent access to SQLBase from existing dBase applications. In addition, the company says it will point its customers using Los Angeles-based Nantucket’s Clipper version of dBase firmly in the direction of a new development from Planet Software, London W, scheduled for release in February. This comprises an API Application Programming Interface, which provides access from dBase to the SQL database server. Henley’s Dr Nigel Geary says that between them, the two developments span a range of user skills. The WordTech products, which automatically translate dBase code into SQL, are designed for first level developers unfamiliar with SQL syntax, he explained. Alternatively, with the Planet interface, Henley claims it is the only vendor to offer users access from the dBase language into a true SQL database. Geary also argues that as UK distributors for Gupta Technologies, Medlo Park, California, Henley offers the only SQL database to run under MS-DOS, available in both single and multi-user versions. Ashton-Tate’s SQL Server, as yet unreleased, will only be available under OS/2: Henley has had Gupta’s OS/2 equivalent since July 1988, he added. The company will target the new products at its existing customer base, which includes a number of large corporate and public sector accounts. Henley also hopes to finalise current negotiations to establish a network of value-added dealers by the end of April.
HENLEY BUSINESS SOFTWARE AIMS TO BEAT ASHTON-TATE TO SQL SUPPORT TOOLS FOR dBASE IV
