>Hi Jerry
>
>I do it this way.
>
>I copy the DBC files and the new / changed tables to a floppy disk.
>I start my app with a parameter that tells it to update the data. Now I use COPY FILE to copy the DBC files to the data directory, then I generate a list of the tables on the floppy disk and run through the list to update the structure.
>
>>When a table is added to a DBC it is linked with a unique id. One cannot overwrite an old table with a new one by the same name because the ids won't match and the DBC will complain.
>>Question: What is the best method to update an EXE of an previously installed app without overwriting the old data tables (hence, the data)?


Yeah! I copy the database1.* with any additional .fpt for table.
For example, if you make change on some table definition, there may have some
.fpt file create for the linkage.

In case your program is working and the most updated data is not in the developing PC. Then, you need to make another directory and copy the Old
database1.* and data files. In other directory, free the Data file and make some
update Data on your new defined table.
Then, you can copy all the new develop directory to client PC without:
Report (.fr?)
Form (.sc?)
Label (.lb?)
Class library (.vc?)
Menu (.m??)
Program (.prg, .fxp)
which suppose has been included into your executable file!

hee hee, Actually copy Data file: (*.dbf, *.cdx, *.idx, *.fpt) and database1.*
is enough!

---

let's take the detail step to retrive Old Structure Most Updated Data into new Structure Table.

1) After free table
2) try following code to get it:

Set Safety off
Set Exclusive On
Use item  && New Structure
zap
Use OldItem in 0  && Old Structure but Most Updated data
Select Item
append from OldItem

3) Need to do some action for other non-existing field.

but it is suppose that your add more fields on it. if you have some key info in
your original New Structure 'Item' Table.
you need to copy to another file first and match them!
*Coding before Zap!
Select item
Copy to DeveItem


if having good method or idea on it, tell me wow! ^_^;