Each data model you create in Power*Architect is saved as a separate project. When you open a project, the data model information is shown in Power*Architect's two main areas: the database tree and the playpen.
The database tree contains a hierarchical view of your project. The hierarchy includes:
The objects in your data model (tables, columns, keys, indices, etc.).
The database connections you've added to the project.
Any objects you've obtained through reverse engineering an existing database. You can drag these objects into the playpen to add them to the data model you're building in Power*Architect. (Large objects may take some time to load in the playpen.)
You can expand the branches in the tree to view objects and can often right-click an object to perform actions. The following icons are used in the database tree to identify the object type.
Database
Catalogue
Schema
Owner
Table
Column
Primary Key
Exported Key
Imported Key
Index
Unique Index
The playpen is your main work area in Power*Architect, where you create and modify your data model. You can use the playpen to experiment and manipulate tables and relationships. Your changes are not saved until you decide to save them.
Your data model can includes tables, columns, indices, and relationships. You can create these objects in Power*Architect or obtain them by reverse engineering an existing database. For more information on working in the playpen, see Chapter 3, Creating a relational Data Model .
Power*Architect supports multiple operating systems, such as Windows, Macintosh and Linux. Power*Architect works the same on all operating systems, with a few minor exceptions:
On Windows and Linux, CTRL is used as the accelerator key. On Macintosh, CMD is the accelerator key.
On Windows and Linux, the Power*Architect menu bar is shown below the Power*Architect title bar. On Macintosh, the menu bar is shown at the top of the Power*Architect window.