📄️ Structure (FDT & FST)
The power and flexibility of the ABCD Cataloging module come from its underlying CISIS database structure. Unlike SQL databases that use fixed tables, ISIS databases are defined by flexible core components managed via Administration > Database Configuration.
📄️ Worksheets (FMT)
While the FDT defines all possible fields in a database, the Worksheet (FMT) defines which fields are actually displayed to the cataloger and in what order.
📄️ Validation Rules
ABCD allows administrators to enforce rules to ensure data consistency during entry.
📄️ The 4 Pillars (FDT/FST/PFT/FMT)
Every database in ABCD (like books, users, providers) is built upon four configuration files. Understanding these is mandatory for any system administrator.
📄️ Z39.50 Client
The Z39.50 module in ABCD acts as a Client, allowing catalogers to search remote libraries (like Library of Congress, Oxford, or national libraries) and download records directly into the local catalog.