Relative Path (and that is now the default option in FileMAker Pro 5.5) shows up in a number od places where one file references another.

When selected, it causes FileMaker Pro to limit its search for a file to the same relative path within a given folder on a server as was its original creation folder. For example, if in a folder called Company Database, I have two files, one called Companies the other called Contacts, and a relationship is defined from Companies to Contacts wheile the files are being created, when the files are moved to the server, Companies will avoid looking all over the network on on your loal drive for the file Contacts.

This is very different than was the case prior to FMP 5.5. It can have unexpected and unanticipated results. And this is just an overview explanation; it does not go into every detail and nuance.

It is still a good idea to avoid duplicate names for files.

HTH

Old Advance Man

OAM,

A very good explanation! You should offer yours services to FMI to re-write their gawdawful on-line help files.

If you like very light weight amusing reading with no substance, I always recommend the Filemaker help file. Here's what it has to say about "Save relative path" in the define relationships dialog:

"You can save the relative path of a relationship by accepting the default checkmark in the Save relative path only checkbox. This allows you to return to the related file."

This implies that if you don't check the box, you'll never see that file again.

LOL.

Knowledge such as this is part of what is required for the FileMaker Pro proficiency Exmintion given every year.

The new FMI web site will likely have many tech info articles, and this topic probably will be among them.

Old Advance Man

Hello! When I'm defining a relationship, FM asks me to specify the file to relate to my master database and there's a check box that says "Save Relative Path Only". I have looked every where and I'm unable to find the exact answer to what this option does exactly.

Thanks for your help!