How to copy a record & its related records?

[laker_42]

I need to write a script that will duplicate a record and all of its related records. The first file has an auto entered serial number as its unique identifier. The second file has the first files serial number as its identifier. It is a one to many relationship. I have tried several different ways but have not been able to do it. Anyone have any ideas that I can try?

Thanks,

John

[BobWeaver]

Have a look at this:

http://www.fmforums.com/threads/showflat.php?Cat=&Number=1463&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=31&fpart=1

[laker_42]

Thanks for the link! I think that will do it for me. One question though, the file is a multi-user file. How will that affect using a global variable? Will I have to take some extra steps to ensure that the global field doesn't get overwritten?

Thanks again,

John

[BobWeaver]

No. You will be okay. "Global" is an inaccurate description. They are actually local to each user. I.e., each user has his/her own copy of global values.

[laker_42]

Oh ok. I was told that Global variables were not local to each user and to try and avoid them on multi user fields.

Thanks for correcting that way of thinking! This is good to know.

John

[BobWeaver]

Globals are useful on multi-user files for keeping temporary private data for use by each user such as when running scripts etc.

On the other hand, if you need to store true global (public) data that is immediately accessible to all users, a popular method is to have one file with a single record and multiple non-global fields to hold the public data. Set up a constant relationship to this file from your other files, and then everyone can read and write (or overwrite) the data.

[-Queue-]

I like to call these non-global globals 'universals' to reduce confusion and add a bit of clarity.

[BobWeaver]

Yes. Whenever I get into a discussion about local globals and global locals, I really start to wonder if I'm making any sense.