How to create and access custom database table from Dashboard single page?

Permalink December 21, 2015 at 10:59 PM

I have a very simple need: To maintain a custom product info database in admin area and show it on the frontend with C5 5.7. So, let's say I have 20 products with name, weight and height. I need to be able to create new products, delete them and modify the parameters.

I have found lot of information about custom database tables and Dashboard single pages, in matter of fact I got single pages working ok. But I'm confused about new DB methdos (Doctrine) and how to actually *create* a new database table for my product. Do I need to use db.xml at all, or is it only related to the older C5 versions? If need it, what is the directory where I should place it? I don't feel needing packaging at all, since this is a single site - I'm not planning to publish it in Marketplace - so, how do I actually *create* those tables?

I know I have missed something, but it's just because of different C5 versions, legacy db methods and all that.

ramonleenders replied on Dec 22, 2015 at 3:10 am Permalink Reply

You're better of creating a package anyways in my opinion! This way you have it all grouped, and it's not all across each directory under /application. Think about it. Even if you decide to get this to your live site from local, you only have to copy 1 directory (packages/your_pkg_handle).

Starting from version 5.7.4, you can use this page:

http://documentation.concrete5.org/developers/packages/custom-datab...

But if that's all a bit scary, you can still use the db.xml file!

http://documentation.concrete5.org/developers/packages/custom-datab...

Drop the db.xml file right in your /packages/your_pkg_handle root. Concrete5 will install the table for your upon installtion!

MoreK replied on Dec 22, 2015 at 5:03 am Permalink Reply

Thanks, I'll try the packaging route then. And "entities" don't look scary at all, will try them too :)