The error message given when bdb fails to open database is very vague #1676

Here's an example error message that might prevent bitcoind/bitcoin-qt from starting: EXCEPTION: 22DbRunRecoveryExveption DbEnv::open: DB_RUNRECOVERY: Fatal error, run database recovery C:\users\omistaja\paska\bitcoin..... in Runaway exception

This message is what end users can easily find and relay when confronted with their wallet not starting. Currently it's very uninformative. It basically just says "there is a problem with the database". It should be fixed so it actually gives some details on the problem. For example what database file is causing the problem.

Also, I don't know if that's already being done but the less important database files could just be wiped automatically when this happens so the software can at least start.

Also, I don't know if that's already being done but the less important database files could just be wiped automatically when this happens so the software can at least start.

I proposed that before, but no one agrees.

Then again, if the new database formats that are going to be added (leveldb for block chain and custom format for wallet) are really a silver bullet we don't need it. BerkelyDB error messages should be a thing of the past at least :)

Error messages have been improved in 0.8.x, and BDB is only used for wallet anymore. Closing.