[TYPO3-english] Question about extension vs FCE

[Kay Strobach]

Hi Douglas,

FCE's are a way to reduce the columns used in tt_content table.
Imagine the size of that table if every extension would need extra
fields for it's configuration options.

Therefore FCE's are often used in tt_content.

On the other hand take a look on tt_news:

1. Extension uses flexform to configure the view plugin in tt_content
2. Extension uses real tables and fields different from tt_content to
   store extension specific data. (tt_news, tt_news_categories)

Normally records in tt_content are selected by pid / sort / col and some
hide/enable fields. Therefore there is typically no need to search
directly for configuration options.

In normal datatables you should use normal SQL Tables.
In tt_content you should prefer flexform to keep the table clean.

Hope that helps you.

Best regards
Kay