Drop down list object

[Stephen R. DeMotts]

I want to create a drop down list box using the tool box within the form editor. The field selection is from one table with one field and numerous records. When I then use the form view, the first record is in the drop down list box, but it is the only record I can access without using next and previous. The manuel is silent on drop down list obect trouble shooting - what am I not doing correctly?

[forskare]

RE: Drop down list object

Stephen,

Check out the field rules for the field your linking the drop down list box to; what choice did you make under the Lookups tab?

kenn

[Tom Cone Jr]

RE: Drop down list object

Stephen,

I'm not 100% certain, but it sounds as though your drop down box is bound to the table or set upon which your form is based. As you use the form to step through the table, the value in the top position of the drop down boxes changes to match, right?

I'm not sure you can use the drop down box to display all the records in the table without more work. for example, it's possible to write code which will populate an array, and then display the array using a list box... is that what you're after?

Have you tried using an embedded browse based on the same table as the form? You can limit the display to the desired column if you wish...

-- tom

[Pat Bremkamp]

RE: Drop down list object

Stephen,
Here is some code that will set up an array and display the results in a listbox. I think this is what you are asking. Make the array larger than you need.

' ****I have 15 items max, but may be less
dim namearray(15) as C
dim i as n
' **** display an array of possible names from the table 'menus'
i=1
tbl=table.open("menus",file_ro_shared)
tbl.index_primary_put("field1")
tbl.fetch_first()
while .not.tbl.fetch_EOF()
namearray(i)=tbl.username
i=i+1
tbl.fetch_next()
end while
tbl.close()
thisws=ui_get_list_array("WORKSTATION NAME",1,"namearray")
thisws=upper(alltrim(thisws))
if thisws=""
end
end if

[Stephen R. DeMotts]

RE: Drop down list object

Hi Kenn - thank you for replying.

The parent table has one field. The child several fields. Each parent unique tracking numer has numerous entries within the child.

I have edited the field rules for the parent table several times. But, changing the field rules seems to have no effect within the form view when I attempt to design a drop down list object while in form design for the only field within the parent table.

I am totally new to data base - I am wondering if the ease to use tout for Alpha is over stating one of it's characteristics.

Kenn - I really appreciated your response - again, thank you,
Steve

[Stephen R. DeMotts]

RE: Drop down list object

Hi Tom - it is really nice that you replied.
I am new to database, as well as Alpha, so I am not sure what the word bound means. However, I did try a test table with four records, and the result is the same. Within form design, I select the drop down list object from the tool box. Then, and after placing the drop down list box on the form and mousing the size box I want, I release the mouse and a box pops up asking which table I wish to use and the field I wish to drop down with the records within the table.
Then, I save the form, and open the form in View. The first record is shown within the box. But, when I click on the boxes arrow for up and down, nothing happens.

I will do more work and determine what an array is. That might be the answer.

Also, I will try an embedded browse. That is described in the book.

Again, thank you for taking your time to answer my question.
The best,
Steve

[Stephen R. DeMotts]

RE: Drop down list object

Hello Pat - thank you for writing.

An array may be the answer. I have never used xbasic, so now is a good time for me to learn.

This will be great learing, and I really appreciate the assistance.
My sincere thanks once again,
Steve

[Tom Patten]

RE: Drop down list object

Stephen,

I think Mr. Nordine may have the answer you are looking for when he said,

"Check out the field rules for the field your linking the drop down list box to; what choice did you make under the Lookups tab?"

Did you enter your CHOICES on the Choices property tab of the field?

Tom

[Stephen R. DeMotts]

RE: Drop down list object

Hi Tom,

Under field rules of Tables/Sets - lookups - Lookup styles; I tried no lookup, simple list, and table lookup.

Under properties within form editor - properties - choices - display; I selected text only.I tired a couple of the others, but as I have no bitmaps, the form view froze.

[forskare]

RE: Drop down list object

Stephen,

When reading your first post, I was under the impression that you were working with one table. I suggest you attach your database to the next post and let us take a look at it. It appears that, being you're so new, it's hard for you to articulate the problem so that we understand what you're saying. (You say one thing but we understand it to be another)

When you reply to this, check below, yes slide the bar so it comes into view, for directions on how to attach files. If you can't figure it out, let us know. This will help us imensely.

kenn