How do I view the Messages Database in a more User Friendly format?

[chizcwish]

Its the SMS in the Backup folder. I have a Treo 680. I open it using Notepad, and see all the past text messages. I can read it, but not so user friendly.

Is there a software program out there that can open the Messages_Database.PDB file?

[chizcwish]

And also, one additional follow up question. I am a frequent texter, that I have so many in my Inbox.

There is a maximum number of text messages in the treo to be saved in the log for a person, and the other past messages get archived or deleted or something.

I dont think I was able to Hotsync during the time when those messages were stiill alive. Is there any way I can still see those messages in the backup file? I cant seem to find them, when I open the PDB file using Notepad.

[Alli]

Do a search for "treodesktop." That's exactly what you're looking for.

[chizcwish]

Do a search for "treodesktop." That's exactly what you're looking for.

Did you mean Palm Desktop? If yes, I dont think it has a Messages Database viewer. Does it?

[Alli]

No, I meant treodesktop. It is an application. Click the Search button at the top of this page, and type it in exactly as I've typed it.

[chizcwish]

No, I meant treodesktop. It is an application. Click the Search button at the top of this page, and type it in exactly as I've typed it.

Thanks alot Alli! Im using the App now, and really it is user frendly to work with.

One additional thing is just with the archived messages, like when the log gets full, because I text alot, and I think a have like more than 2,000 text messages from this one person, and not all of them are in the log anymore. I dont Hotsync often, and I noticed that not all messages are visible.

Can I find them elsewhere? ANyway to revive them?

[Alli]

I'm not sure what the "shelf-life" of the average sms is.

[chizcwish]

Yes, well, the shelf life didnt catch up anymore. Its probably around 100 messages per log.

Would you think I can still find a way to revive or find these messages?

[Alli]

According to Treodesktop's website:

"Last but not least, you need to know (even if Palm never documented it) that your Treo automatically and silently deletes your messages: only the lasts 300 SMS per contact (500 SMS per contact, on Treo 600 device) will be retained on the device!"

[chizcwish]

ohhh.... that sucks...

is it at least deleted, but archived, just like how other messages have the capability to be archived even if you delete it?

the messages are somewhat precious and sentimental....

[Alli]

I'm guessing if TreoDesktop can't pick them up, they are gone for good.

[chizcwish]

Ohhh man... I didnt know that. Thanks for the info!

But since its a different topic than the title of this thread, let me try posting another thread with that specific question, maybe there are some other people in the same boat as I am.

Thanks so much for your info. It really helps!

[winter]

Use SMSBackup to backup your chat messages.