linking to files to specific records

[Julie]

I am just getting back into Filemaker Pro and need help. I am using the MAC platform. How do you link unique files to specific records?

Thanks

[Fitch]

You mean files outside of FileMaker? This might work for you: store the path in a field and use the Open URL step.

[-Queue-]

You're using a Media Access Control platform?

[Julie]

I am using a Macintosh version. I have written a script using the Perform URL which works, but how do you attach it to one record? Right now, the script performs the same action on all records (I had attached it as a button).

I thought if I defined the field as a container, I would be able to attach a specific script, but I can't figure out how to attach anything into the container field.

Sorry for being so naive about this, I'm sure it is pretty straight forward. I appreciate your help.

[CobaltSky]

Hi Julie,

The Open URL command, available within ScriptMaker, provides the option to source the URL from a field - which can be a field in the current record.

If you can contrive to place the path to the file that you wish to open for a given record into a field - or alternatively to calculate it based on values within the record etc, then your Open URL command will execute accordingly.

BTW containers can store links to files on the Windows platform, but they don't work that way on MacOS.

[Fitch]

IOW, don't use a container field, use a text field and make a script the references that field in the Open URL script step.

Alternatively, you could use an Applescript such as (example simplified):

tell application "Finder"

open file "xyz"

end tell

But again, you have to explicitly tell it the path.

[Julie]

Thank you all.

I understand and have set it up, but now I can't get it to run, I created the Open URL script to specify that field and put the following information into the FIELD, but it doesn't want to recognize it. Any suggestions?

"file://MacintoshHD/Users/xxxxx/Documents/file_name.ppt"

If I delete the "file:" the script trys to open it as an http:

Am I missing something here??

[CobaltSky]

Hi Julie.

On the face of it the thing you are missing is a slash. Http references start with http://, but file references start with file:/// and you've quoted a hybrid in your post.

Even with the third slash in place, how successfully and efficiently it works will depend on your computer and browser set up.

A much cleaner solution is to be had if you use a plug-in such as DialogMagic or Troi File, which provide external functions to open/launch files directly into other applications. However there is a cost involved with going that track.

[Mark H]

Is there any way to open up an explorer window and select a file to link to?

Thanks

[CobaltSky]

Hello Mark,

If I understand correctly what you're asking, then yes, there is. That is what the "Open URL [ ]" command does when you pass it a file:///... parameter.

[Mark H]

Is there any way to the get the file which is selected in the explorer window back to the database so it can be used to automatically link out next time?

[Lee Smith]

Hi Mark,

Here are a couple of files that use AppleScript (I think) to do this.

Grab FilePath to Field by: Unkown URL: http://www.fmfiles.com/dev2.html

URL Grabber Installer by: Matt Petrowsky URL: http://www.fmfiles.com/enduserhom5.html