How to create a database diagram with phpMyAdmin Designer

A relational schema is easier to review when its foreign-key paths are visible as a map instead of scattered across separate table screens. phpMyAdmin Designer turns an existing database into a canvas of linked table cards and can retain the layout for later checks.

Designer reads relationships already defined in the database. Saving a named layout also requires phpMyAdmin configuration storage, including its table-coordinate storage, so enable that feature before opening Designer.

An inventory_app database with devices, locations, and maintenance_events tables provides a clear relationship map. The finished Inventory map page reopens with all three cards and both foreign-key lines visible.

1. Select the inventory_app database in the navigation panel.
2. Open the More menu in the database toolbar.
3. Select Designer from the More menu.
4. Arrange the devices, locations, and maintenance_events cards into a readable relationship map.
5. Choose Save page as from the Designer toolbar.
6. Select the create-page radio option in the Save page as dialog.
7. Enter Inventory map in the New page name field.
8. Click Go to save the named Designer page.
9. Select inventory_app in the navigation panel to leave Designer.
10. Open the More menu in the database toolbar again.
11. Select Designer to confirm that Inventory map reopens with all three related tables.