Convert FMP to SQL

Understanding FMP and SQL file formats

FMP files are database files created by FileMaker Pro, a popular cross-platform relational database application. These files store structured data, layouts, scripts, and other database elements. SQL files, on the other hand, are plain text files containing SQL (Structured Query Language) statements used to create, modify, and populate relational databases such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, or SQLite.

Why convert FMP to SQL?

Converting an FMP file to an SQL file is essential when you want to migrate your FileMaker Pro database to a different database management system that supports SQL. This allows for greater flexibility, integration with web applications, and use of advanced database features.

How to convert FMP to SQL

FileMaker Pro does not natively export directly to SQL format. However, you can achieve this conversion through a two-step process:

1. Export data from FileMaker Pro: Open your database in FileMaker Pro and use File → Export Records to export your tables to a format such as CSV or XML.
2. Convert exported data to SQL: Use a third-party tool to convert the exported CSV or XML files into SQL statements.

Recommended software for FMP to SQL conversion

• FileMaker Pro: Use for exporting your data to CSV or XML.
• DBConvert: A commercial tool that can migrate FileMaker databases directly to MySQL, PostgreSQL, and other SQL databases.
• Navicat: Supports importing CSV/XML and exporting to SQL for various database systems.
• CSV to SQL Converter (online tools): Free online converters can turn CSV files into SQL statements for quick migrations.

Step-by-step conversion process

1. Open your FMP file in FileMaker Pro.
2. Go to File → Export Records and choose CSV or XML as the export format.
3. Save the exported file to your computer.
4. Use a tool like DBConvert or an online CSV to SQL converter to generate an SQL file from your exported data.
5. Review and edit the SQL file if necessary to match your target database schema.
6. Import the SQL file into your SQL database using your database management system's import feature.

Tips for a successful conversion

• Check for data type compatibility between FileMaker and your target SQL database.
• Review exported data for special characters or formatting issues.
• Test the import process with a small dataset before migrating the entire database.