How do I set up tables in mysql and manage it?

I've Googled until my eyes are crossed and I'm throughly confused!

[HeyJim]

Since my Alpha5 database won't strip trailing spaces when I export records, I started looking for a database that will do just that. I discovered that mysql will save a csv file with no trailing spaces.

I can easily create a mysql db thru the company I'm hosted with. Beyond that I'm lost.

I couldn't find anything about how to set up the tables in the db. Lots of trial and error and modifying an existing db/table and I have something workable but the only way to enter info is through phpmyadmin. I'd love to have a php interface that could set up tables in my database and allow me to manage them. Entering info, etc.

The few programs/scripts I downloaded seem to allow me to manipulate mysql dbs that are on my desktop but I'm a little intimidated about downloading and installing mysql on my desktop which is also the heart of my business.

I think I need a program that will set up tables on a database that I set up on my hosted account and let me add content to it.

(This all started out as a desire to start using a cms but between terrible urls and cms's that don't display the links to articles/pages the way I want, or require root access that I don't have, or simply don't install properly, I'm trying to use webmerge to have a quasi cms with static pages. All I need is something to more conveniently set up tables and enter information. And, hopefully, facility to download the info in cvs.)

Stressed out and going crazy looking for answers.
Obviously, any help is appreciated.
Short of telling me to take the next two months and learn php. (Please, God, anything but that. I have more than enough to do.)

[jatar_k]

maybe try this

[phpmyadmin.net...]

great web based tool for manipulating data in mysql

[henry0]

Try MYSQL Manager2
just a word of caution
when using any of those tools
(without some ISP preinstalled PHP MyAdmin safety nets)
you will be handling lots of power
get used to before dealing with a real DB

regards
Henry

[vincevincevince]

for data entry, all you need in a form in html, the fields named as required

then, have the form sending to a php page

now, don't be scared... the only things you need to know to input data from a form into mysql via php are:

$_REQUEST[field] which returns the value of the box in your form that was marked field

and three key mysql related commands (find on php.net the syntax)

mysql_connect() which connects to database server, needs username and password
mysql_select_db() which selects your chosen database
mysql_query() which runs mysql queries... such as...:
"INSERT ....
(see your mysql documentation for INSERT command, the basic entry format)

The string you pass can contain $_REQUEST[field] parts, so it could well be a 4 line php script :-D

[HeyJim]

Vince*3,
That sounds exactly what I'm looking for: quick and simple.

Thanks to all for your input.