Merge & Purge question

[Steve Feldman]

After reviewing the level of discussion here I realized I am closer to a beginner than a novice. I hope I have posted this question to the correct section.

I have two databases. I want to combine them and at the same time eliminate the duplicate records. I want to be able to select three separate fields that are the same in each database, and if all three are the same, the duplicate record being imported will be deleted. I am using Filemaker Pro 8.5.

Is there an easy way to do this?

Steve

[Keith LaMarre]

you don't specify what the 3 fields contain but - one way would be to create a calculated text field that "concatanates" the three fields -

"Combo" = field_1&field_2&field3

Make certain that its text - (even if the values are numbers) - then import from the second - find duplicate combos and delete them - find dupes by specifying "!" - there must be numerous examples of finding and deleting duplicate records in a file.

[Fenton]

You do not need to use a concatenated field in FileMaker 7/8. Just use all 3 fields in the relationship. It is best to use this relationship BEFORE importing; so you never even import the duplicates. Assuming that you do not want to bring in ANY duplicates, nor their data:

From the original database, Go To Related Record [ Show Only, All records in found set ] to the new one. This will isolate all duplicates in the new one. Either Delete All Records, Show All Records; or just Show Omitted Only.

However it is seldom so straightforward as that, with data. Work with copies; have a backup.

[Steve Feldman]

Thanks for the replies Keith and Fenton. The information is much appreciated.