Which database should I use please?

[Dexie]

Can anyone please let me know what database I need please?

There's a form on my website constructed mainly in php, where I would like the results to go into a database, things like name, phone, email address, and a date that would come from a drop down box. PLus the date that the user completed the form, which they wouldn't have inputted anywhere.

If possible, the db should be compatible with Outlook 2003, so that I can mailmerge every so often to those people, (they would have given their permission on the form).

Also, the db shouldn't have more than one entry for the same email address.

I *think* I've given enough info on what I'm trying to find, but if more info is needed, please let me know and I'll post back straight away.

Any help appreciated.

Dexie.

[txbakers]

Access or mySQL would work fine for you.

[Dexie]

Many thanks txbakers - does one have any advantages over the other at all please?

[txbakers]

access is a small, easy to use GUI database. It won't stand up to very heavy web use.

mySQL is an enterprise level powerhouse.

[Dexie]

Many thanks for that. I have used Access before, so it's not a new thing for me. How would you define heavy use? I envisage there being about 20 entries a week, with probably about 10 fields for each.

[topr8]

>> I envisage there being about 20 entries a week, with probably about 10 fields for each.

:) this is tiny useage, in db terms

i think the issue is more what your web host supports, if it is not a windows server then access will not be an option anyway

you could consider writing the details to a text file, and appending each entry to the bottom (run a quick text search to check the email has not been submitted before) ... this is quick and easy to do

[Dexie]

Many thanks for that.

I'm on Linux server.