Select the database

Create a new database by selecting File, New, Database. This starts a wizard that allows you to create a new database, open an existing database, or connect to an existing database. Select the Connect to existing database radio button. From the listbox select MySQL. Click Next >>.

Figure 21.78. Selecting the Database

You will be asked how you would like to connect to the database. Select the Connect native radio button.

Figure 21.79. Selecting the connection type

Click Next >>.

Fill in the connection settings

Enter the name of the database, server URL, and optionally the socket to connect on (if not using the default).

Note that if you do not specify a database all databases will be available for selection.

Figure 21.80. Entering Connection Settings

Click Next >>.

Set up user authentication

If you are using MySQL server's anonymous account without a password, you do not have to fill in anything in this step. Otherwise, fill in your MySQL user name and check the password checkbox. Note, for security reasons, you should not normally use the anonymous account without a password.

Figure 21.81. Setting Up User Authentication

You can now test your connection to the MySQL database server by clicking the Test Connection button. Check the checkbox if you do not want OpenOffice.org to ask you for your password again in the current session. Testing the connection is optional, although recommended.

Click Next >>.

Decide how to proceed after connecting to the database

Figure 21.82. After Connecting to the Database

Keep the default settings.

Click Finish.

You will then be prompted to save you database as a database file. Enter the name of the database and the location in which to save the file.

Figure 21.83. Entering the Database File Name

Click Save.