Although many of M3's features work without the M3 database running, it is very likely that you will want the database in place.  Fortunately, creating a database is very easy and something which you will need to do only once.  This section describes how to setup a database and explains the components which makeup that database.

Creating a database

To create a M3 database, you need to:

1. Create two empty directories named DB and ICONS.  DB should be on a fast drive which does not fill easily (DB is small but it must not be denied disk space when it asks for it) and ICONS should be on a drive with a lot of room. (ICONS will slowly grow very large but you can go in and delete its content whenever you wish).  Do not create ICONS inside of DB!
2. Select Database>Connect menu item.
3. Enter the two directory names, click on the auto-select button, and press Perform.