Here goes,

I have relatioinships:

object.fp5->element.fp5->category.fp5->type.fp5

Many Elements make up an Object,

each Element can be of a Category

and each Category can be of a Type.

I don't want users to fly around too many files, so I have a portal in object.fp5 relating to element.fp5. Within this portal the user is able to select an Element Category via a pop-up.

I wish this Category selection to affect a Type pop-up in the same portal - i.e. by selecting a Category, its related Types are then contained in a pop-up for a user to select one and thus have an Element which points to a Category and a Type (chosen from a Category's Type).

At present Category is a value list in Object.fp5 so I can choose a Category from a pop-up whic in-turn sets the Element->Category relationship via the Object's Element portal.

Should I be using a value list rather than an additional Type.fp5??

What next?? Is it simple?? Do I need to go global, if so how?

Any advice welcomed.

take care,

J.

It seems that you're using a different file for each field.

If you put both "category" and "type" fields in the "Category.fp5" file, then you can have the "Type" value list to consist of related items based on the Category.

I think -- haven't checked this, but if it's not a complete solution to your problem, it is at least definitely on the right track.

Use a relational value list

Merge category.fp5 and type.fp5 into a details.fp5 file in which you'll enter arecord for each combination of category and type

In the element.fp5 file relate the category field to the category field of details.fp5 and use this relationship to create a relational value list that you'll attach to the type field, that will display only types related to the chosen category

Since you're entering data thru a portal define in object.fp5 a value list to be attached to the ::type field, and set the value list to "use a value list from another file", choosing the upmentioned relational value list

Hi,

You could also do this implementing a Multikey. Here"s an attachment I surely stole from the Forum (Really can't remember who did this - seems like DJ though -)

multikeyrel.zip

Good stuff,

How do I relate a different value list to each record within

the category/details file??

J

Hi,

Sorry I don't understand your question.

Let's take an example :

Object = Car

Elements = Tyres, Doors, Engine, Radio, Brakes

Category = Functional, Security, Comfort

Type = Home Made, Supplied

There is a relationship from the Object to each of the three other "fields"

There is a relationship from the Elements to each of the three other fields

There is no direct relationship from Category to Type.

Is it your problem ?