FileMaker, the Apple subsidiary that specializes in database products, has announced FileMaker Mobile 2 Companion for Palm OS, new software for transferring and synchronizing data between FileMaker Pro 5.5 v2 databases on desktop computers and Palm OS handhelds.
The new FileMaker Mobile 2 must be used with FileMaker Pro 5.5 v2. Users of earlier versions of FileMaker Pro may take advantage of a limited-time, $50-off upgrade offer. FileMaker Mobile 2, due in May, supports Mac OS X, the traditional Mac operating system, and Windows. However, Mac OS X use requires Palm HotSync Manager 3.0, which Palm is currently beta-testing with its public beta of Palm Desktop 4.0 software for Mac.
With FileMaker Mobile 2, which will cost US$49, you can choose and load the FileMaker data you require from their desktop computer to your Palm OS handheld. You can transfer 50 fields per record from a desktop FileMaker Pro 5.5 v2 database to a Palm OS handheld. The data on the handheld can be synched later with the desktop database via Palm HotSync technology.
FileMaker Mobile 2 gives users new ways to enter data on Palm OS handhelds. Pop-Up Menus, Pop-Up Lists and single Check Boxes, can be transferred from a desktop database. And phone numbers in the Palm OS Address Book may be inserted directly into FileMaker Mobile 2.
FileMaker Mobile 2 makes it easier to view and navigate mobile data, according to company spokesperson Steve Ruddock. Columnar list viewing is easier since users can lock down an important first column of data, and reorder and resize columns, with a few quick taps, he said. And Sony CLIE and HandEra 330 users can quickly navigate through FileMaker Mobile 2 forms using the handheld’s Jog Wheel or Jog Dial.
FileMaker Mobile 1 licensed users will be entitled to a free downloadable upgrade to FileMaker Mobile 2.
What’s more, FileMaker has also unveiled FileMaker Mobile for i-mode, database software which enables i-mode “smart phone” users in Japan to instantly access, view and edit FileMaker databases.
“i-mode road warriors” will be able to share info residing in FileMaker databases on computers running FileMaker Mobile for i-mode. With a few steps, FileMaker users can transform their databases into “i-mode ready” information, so mobile users can instantly and dynamically browse, edit, add, delete, search and sort records from i-mode phones. Every time the FileMaker database is updated, FileMaker Mobile for i-mode automatically generates new i-mode pages, so smart phone users always see the latest data, said Filemaker president Dominique Goupil.
To jump-start mobile workgroups, FileMaker includes two ready-to-use solutions: Mobile Groupware (including Scheduler, Meeting Room Reservation, Bulletin Board, Contact List, Bookmark, etc.), and Mobile Sales Tool. FileMaker Mobile for i-mode is the database server software for computers running Mac OS X, Windows, or Red Hat Linux. It has to be used with FileMaker Pro 5.5 v2 or FileMaker Pro 5.5 v2 Unlimited database software.
FileMaker Mobile for i-mode is scheduled to be available only in Japan by mid-March. The price will be 89,000 yen (SRP).