I'm not sure if this can get done

[Samantha Mattie]

I want to make a layout with fields labeled A through K. I have that done, and now here is where what I want gets a little strange. I want to pull up a number 1-4 randomly in field A, in feild be random 1-2, field C 1, field D, E, F, G with random numbers 1-4, field H 1-2, Field I 1-23, and so on.

Now, I don't know where to begin doing this, I was hoping that this was possible and someone out there knows how to accomplish it.

[mr_vodka]

Hi Samantha,

My suggestion to you would be to create a Custom Function.

You can name the Cust Function something like, RandomFilter.

The Cust Function will need one Parameter. Let's call it NumValues.

Then use this formula.

Let ( [ r=Random;                    // Genterates Random Number

        f=Filter ( r ;NumValues );   // Filters the Random Number for characters only specified in NumValues Parameter

        x=Left ( f ; 1 )             // Takes only the first digit

         ];

       x

       )

Now In your field defintions, you need to have you number fields (A-K), with calculated value (not calculations) and also with the option to 'Do not replace existing value' Checked.

The calculated value will now be a simple call to the new cust function:

Field A = RandomFilter (1234)

Field B = RandomFilter (12)

Field C = 1 (This one doesnt need the function call because it is always one)

Field D = RandomFilter (1234)

etc etc etc.

[Samantha Mattie]

Thank you for the fast reply, I do have a question that might make me sound dumb....How do I create a custom function?

[Ender]

Or skip the CF, and just use a slightly different calc for each:

FieldA = Int(Random*4)+1

FieldB = Int(Random*2)+1

etc.

[Zero Tolerence]

Sorry to bust in here.

Ender, why do you use the Int(Random*4)+1 ?

I generally use Ceiling(Random * 4)

Is there something with this that will not give me what I'm wanting?

This has just got me a bit worried that my random Generated Numbers aren't working as I planned.

[Samantha Mattie]

I tried that, and I got nothing but zeros. I think I might be missing something.

[Ender]

Hey Zero,

Ceiling is a good function to use here. I had forgotten about it (I've been mostly working in FM6 until recently.)

[comment]

Ceiling(Random * 4) is good - if you want a random integer between 1-4, inclusive.

I tend to use the same formula as Ender, simply because it is a subset of the general formula for generating a random integer between LOW and HIGH, inclusive:

Int ( Random * ( HIGH - LOW + 1 ) ) + LOW

[Samantha Mattie]

Thanks Zero, this was what I was looking to do.

[Zero Tolerence]

Ahh I see what you mean, I'm breathing easier now!

[Lee Smith]

Thank you for the fast reply, I do have a question that might make me sound dumb....How do I create a custom function?

You have to have the Developer edition of FileMaker, FMI changed the name of Developer with the release of version 8 to Advance.

As you see by the replies, it isn't always necessary to have the CF ability.

Lee

[mr_vodka]

Sorry Lee,

My head has been in the clouds today. That is the second overlook that I have had. I should go home. I am sick as a dog with the flu.

:

[Lee Smith]

... that is the second overlook that I have had.

No sweat, it appeared that between us all everything had been covered except the question about how to do a CF.

Sorry you don't feel good, when i catch that stuff, it knocks be off my feet longer than most, even if I do stay home.

Lee