The name probably gives it away, but just in case you weren’t aware of this, Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler is an extension of Oracle SQL Developer. They share a framework that is derived from JDeveloper. The latest framework has some new user interface widgets that were adopted directly from Netbeans.

I’ve blogged a bit on this topic in regards to SQL Developer, but a lot of those ‘cool things’ are also available in the Modeler.

Let’s take a quick look at two of them right now.

1. Reorder document tabs

Works just like your browser - the document will highlight the new docking point as your drag it over
Works just like your browser – the document will highlight the new docking point as your drag it over

2. Floating documents

Have a particularly large diagram? Have a super-sweet secondary monitor? Float that puppy over and maximize is, and then use the rest of the SQL Developer desktop to work on your other diagrams or whatever ‘floats’ your boat.

Right click on the document tab...and select 'Float'
Right click on the document tab…and select ‘Float’

Then voila!

You can also right-click and 'dock' the document back to the main application desktop
You can also right-click and ‘dock’ the document back to the main application desktop

If you ‘lose’ the floating document, check your application taskbar icon…

Windows sees the floating document as a second instance of the application running
Windows sees the floating document as a second instance of the application running

And of course you already know how Document Tab Groups work, yes?

If you want to see two diagrams at once, then start a new document tab group – also a right-click.

Two diagrams, shown side-by-side :)
Two diagrams, shown side-by-side 🙂

A few notes:

  • the Navigator accurately shows the correct model with both floating documents and multiple document tab groups
  • you can drag and drop documents from one tab group to another
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I'm a Distinguished Product Manager at Oracle. My mission is to help you and your company be more efficient with our database tools.

2 Comments

    • Thanks! Updating the framework to get these UI improvements was no small feat, so the positive feedback is much appreciated.

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