📄️ Structure (FDT & FMT)
The flexibility and power of the ABCD Cataloging module rely on the ISIS database structure, managed natively through field definition tables. Unlike traditional systems based on rigid SQL tables, ABCD uses the Field Definition Table (FDT) and the Data Entry Format (FMT) to dynamically shape the cataloger's experience.
📄️ 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.
📄️ Field Selection Table (FST)
The FST is the "brain" of the search engine. While the FDT defines storage, the FST defines access. It tells ABCD which fields should be searchable and how to process them into the Inverted File (Index).
📄️ 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.