numbers as relational database

"Relational database" is a really broad term! Numbers works naturally with small, discrete tables related by the "LOOKUP" family of formulas and the INDEX MATCH combination. You can "normalize" your data structure if you want. And you can easily filter the individual tables (though I'm not sure what you mean by "input filters"; are you talking about data validation?) However Numbers is not suited to very large datasets. And (except on iOS, to a limited extent) it does not have input forms though it does have specialized datal formats such as checkboxes, sliders, steppers, and pop-up menus that facilitate data entry.

So I think the answer to your question depends to a large extent on the specifics of what you are trying to do. Can you describe that in more detail?

SG

Numbers can do some things that a relational database can do but would be a sore replacment for one. If you want a real database you should consider FileMaker, or mysql, or postgre sql.

Without more specifics regarding what you want to do it is hard to say whether Numbers (and perhaps some Applescripts) will do what you want.

if i add a new unique entry to table A on sheet 1, column C , can i create a trigger upon entry in column C to send me to sheet 2, table B where I could enter a new record with more fields about that unique entry/key?

That's theoretically possible, but as Wayne says, would be a "sore replacement" for a real database application.

next q: for an old foxpro user who got away with an application generator instead of doing my own code, which do i want for mavericks: postgre sql or mysql ?

Are you planning on doing all your own coding now? If not, you will probably be happier with FileMaker. You might even find a good solution in something like TapForms. It really depends on what you are trying to do. Why don't you give us more specifics?

SG

i do NOT want to do my own coding, more like wizard type build or other appgen or just plain table and input design for simple databases.

I don't know about PostgreSQL but if it's like MySQL then it probably isn't what you are looking for. It's a powerful backend whereas you are looking for a (presumably easy to use) front end as well. It depends on what kind of "simple" databases you want to set up, but you may find TapForms will do what you want. It will "relate" tables (it calls them forms) and you can design (very simple) data entry forms suitable for many purposes. FileMaker almost certainly will do what you want, at a different price point and with a steeper learning curve to be sure, but it is a versatile product.

One other possibility: There are database components to open source office suites such as OpenOffice, etc. I haven't tried any for a long time. A few years ago, I wasn't happy with that component of OpenOffice. But maybe it's improved and might be worth a look.

SG