Linking a record with a value list

[Kevin Kersey]

OK, I have two tables "Staff" and "Computers". I have a value list based on the "Last Name" field of the "Staff" table.

On the Computers layout, I want to assign the computer to a staff member by pulling down the "value list of the last name". And when I select the last name, I want the rest of the information from the staff record to fill in as well.

So, I create a new record in the computers table. Right now, I have a portal (showing only one record, as the computer can only be assisgned to one person) showing the staff. The Last Name record in the staff portal is a pull down list (with the Last name value list), but will only pull down if there is already a relationship made between the two tables. For example, if I am in the Staff table (which has a portal from the computers table) and I create a new record for a computer (which I can do on the staff layout), then go to the computer layout, I will see the staff member linked to the computer. The last name field will also pull down, but only changes the last name of the staff record (instead of changing the rest of the staff info as well). So, if Joe Blow is assigned the computer, I pull down the last name field and see the last name of all the staff and select Jones, then in the staff table, Joe Blow is now Joe Jones.

I know I am doing something wrong, but can't figure out how to fix it. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

BTW - I'm not a complete newbie, but I am still learning. Also, I hope the description above makes sense. -) Thanks.

[TougToug]

OK, I have two tables "Staff" and "Computers". I have a value list based on the "Last Name" field of the "Staff" table.

I have a similar problem with my db in FMP7, can someone please help??