Database Options
ClipMate uses a robust database system to store your clips. By default, every installation creates a database called "My Clips" stored locally in single-user mode.
Database Definitions
You can define multiple databases for:
- Multi-user sharing on a network
- Secondary data sources on removable drives
- Keeping old databases available for occasional use
Database List
- Checkmark - Determines whether the database loads at startup
- Add - Creates a new database entry
- Edit - Modify existing database properties
- Delete - Remove database entry
- Open Folder - Opens database directory in Windows Explorer
Database Files
ClipMate uses .DAT, .IDX, and .BLB files (about 22-24 files total). Files ending in "K" are backups from cleanup/repair operations and can be deleted.
Directory Rules
- Each database must have its own directory
- Don't put two databases in the same directory
- Don't put a database in a directory used for other files
Database Maintenance
| Setting | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Internal Backup Interval | How often to invoke built-in backup |
| Set Offline Daily | Close databases for external utilities (backup, antivirus, defrag) |
Individual Database Properties
Basic Settings
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | Shows at top level of collection tree |
| Directory | Path to database (local or mapped network drive) |
| Auto Load at Startup | Whether to load when ClipMate starts |
| Multi-User | Enable if others update this database simultaneously |
| Read-Only | Prevents writing (must have at least one read/write database) |
Maintenance Settings
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Trashcan Retention Days | 7-30 days recommended |
| Purging and Aging | When to run overflow/trashcan processing |
| Temp File Location | Where database temp files are stored |
Temp File Location Options
- Database Directory - Best option (don't use for slow devices or network)
- System TMP - Good performance but may conflict with cleanup utilities
- Program Directory - Use if other options don't work
Database Backup
ClipMate includes ZIP-based backup creating files like:
ClipMate7_DB_My Clips_2024-01-15.ZIP
Backup Schedule
- Default: Prompts every 7 days at startup
- Change interval in Database options
- Set to 0 or 9999 days to disable prompts
Unattended Backup
Enable "auto-OK" option with a 2-3 second countdown to run automatically while still allowing intervention.
Where to Backup
Backup Strategy
Back up to a different hard disk if possible. Transfer backup files to CD, USB drive, or cloud storage periodically.
Multi-User Backups
- Don't backup databases being actively written to by multiple users
- Designate ONE user to run backups
- Turn off backup prompts for other users
Database Restore
Restore from backup with File > Database Maintenance > Restore Database.
Before Restoring
- Select a collection in the target database to make it "active"
- Consider backing up current database first
- For preserving existing data, create a new database and restore there