Cannot edit table fields after migrating to split database

[Klavs]

I followed this tutorial viewtopic.php?f=83&t=65980 in order to create a portable split database. However, after doing that I discover that I cannot change properties of the table fields (all greyed out). I can, though, create new fields and set any properties. After I save again all properties are greyed out. Any ideas of what causes the problem?

[UnklDonald418]

Existing fields in split databases cannot be edited using the GUI.
In order to make changes to an existing field you must use Tools->SQL and enter an ALTER TABLE command.
Download a copy of the BaseHandBook
http://www.libreoffice.org/get-help/documentation/
beginning on page 46 is a good description of Table Modification
After you execute the SQL command be sure to go to View->Refresh Tables so you can see the changes you made.

[UnklDonald418]

I found some other links that give a better explanation of your issue.
In his tutorial on split databases posted prior to the one you referenced
viewtopic.php?f=83&t=61183
in the fourth paragraph DACM discusses the issues with using the Base GUI with split databases
There is another post
viewtopic.php?p=237133#p237133
where he discusses workarounds.

[Villeroy]

SELECT statements across multiple tables can be very complicated, however the data definition language which lets you build tables, indices, relations and users is trivial (CREATE, DROP, ALTER, GRANT). I am not a database professional but I can build up a database by means of SQL faster than by clicking the Base GUI, given that I prepared a sheet of paper with the functional layout of tables, fields and relations.
When unsure, all you need is the script file of some existing HSQLDB.