I haven't used compression but storing strings as variable length reduces my
data dramatically. I found most fields are rarely filled even halfway.
Adding some simple compression could save you even more space. You could
also consider using the FLASH features of a TRGPro. It can handle storage
upwards of 340MB using FLASH or a microdrive. The Flash functions would
allow your app to read/write directly to the card. And best of all, when you
pull the Palm's batteries, you data doesn't disappear.
-----Original Message-----
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: Palm Developer Forum <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Tuesday, February 08, 2000 9:06 AM
Subject: Variable Length Recs and compression - Seeking for some advice
>Hello All,
>
>Due to a huge amount of data records I plan to download into a pilot DB I'm
>seeking for the best approach of storing my data efficiently (verry
>efficiently...)
>
>My records now do have many fields such like
>Char Descr [255]
>Char Msg [30]
>Char Name [55]
>and so on
>
>whereby I often use much less than the defined number of chars - so I know
I
>waste a lot of space.
>
>I wonder if it is possible to change my record layout to actualy point to a
>string DB that holds variable length records containing these strings.
>
>Is this possible (varible lengths records).
>
>Anybody out there who can give some ideas or advices on the best approach
on
>this problem ?
>
>I also think of compressing the individual strings with a little
zip-routine
>(or any other compression algorithm) or something similar so that I only
>"unpack" the strings I actualy need. String-packing might reduce my record
>size by 50% or above - I think.
>
>I wonder if somebody out there has already done something similar and would
>like to share his/her ideas and source snippets.
>
>Any ideas, advices or pointers to further material that might help is
>greatly appreciated. The data I need in my pilot is > 24 MB .... and I want
>this in a 8MB Pilot Vx....
>
>I think it is possible if I
>a)
>can make variable lengths records (avarage amount of men = 50% of fixed
Char
>fields) so I'm down to 12 MB
>b)
>Compression with a ratio 50% or above will reduce down to 6 MB or so
>
>I have sleepless nights with this so I'm realy seeking information and
>possibilities.
>
>Thanks a lot in advance
>Ole
>
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