Computer Skills Needed: A MF Folder Database

[Frank R]

A previous thread asked about recommendations for a medium format folding camera. Since this question comes up on a fairly regular basis I was wondering if someone with computer skills would like to come up with a database application that would help people decide which camera to choose.

Some of the catergories could be: Brand name, lens type (tessar, triplet, heliar), coated or uncoated lens, rangefinder (none, uncoupled, or coupled), film size (6x6, 6x9, or 6x4.5), shutter (this would be a little tougher, maybe brand and/or top speed?).

All of us here could help by posting our cameras in a standard format (maybe comma seperated) so the developer could copy and paste the data into the appropriate tables.

This might be a handy resource that we could all point others to when they are looking for a MF folder.

Anybody up for the task? I would be willing to assist you.

 

[Ole]

There's a lot of this on the net already, like Tigin's pages at http://www.ukcamera.com/classic_cameras/camindexe.html

 

[Frank R]

There's a lot of this on the net already, like Tigin's pages at http://www.ukcamera.com/classic_cameras/camindexe.html

That may be helpful but it is not what I had in mind.

I was thinking that a person could select a few criteria, say: coupled rangefinder and tessar lens, and then hit a sort button. A list would be generated that would match that criteria, sort of like the sort function on B+H pages. The person could then go shopping with their list in hand.

This is pretty straight forward database stuff. I know it can be done but it is not currently in my skill set to do.

 

[mgb74]

It might be simplest to start with a somewhat basic MS Excel spreadsheet that allows you to select criteria (such as lens type). Would allow imput via CSV file, but would require MS Excel to use. It would be a start, but not nearly as functional as a web-based tool.

My view is that the biggest obstacle is content - getting the reasonably accurate and complete list of cameras. Once you have a critical mass of content, you can find someone enthusiastic enough to design/build a more functional method of access. So a spreadsheet could be a good start - though not the best end point.

 

[Frank R]

I am going to start with a basic Microsoft Access file.

At least it will give me a chance to practice using the program. I know the basics but really need more practice. I know that this type of thing is a good use of the software.