my checkbox is not modifiable - possible reasons?

[bowie101]

First day on someone's filemaker pro 4.1 database. Actually it's Ebase, if that means anything to you.

There are a bunch of check boxes in a few different columns. Most of them can be checked and unchecked. 1 column however, a most important column, can not. When you click on them to change their boolean value, the "not modifiable" message box pops up.

What are all the possible reasons for that? Only 1 column has a problem in this respect. If I compare the field format, with a right-click, of one non-working checkbox with another checkbox that works, they look the same.

the person who works in this database daily thought she could change the value it before.

So, haven't touched filemaker pro for years, what am I looking for?

thanks, b

[BobWeaver]

My memory of version 3 & 4 (which were essentially the same) is very foggy, and some of these options may not apply. I can think of 3 reasons why you can't modify a field:

1. It's a calculated field. This is commonly used when you want to display the contents of another field but not let the user modify it.

2. The field options under the Format menu (in Layout mode) has the "do not allow entry into field" option checked. This is probably not your situation, because the field would be dead and you wouldn't get any message.

3. The autoenter option in the field definition is set to prohibit modifications. This was in version 5 & later, but may not apply to your version.

[Lee Smith]

Hello b, and welcome to the Forum.

The application is spelled FileMaker Pro, not filemaker pro

The file [color:blue] Ebase is distributed at http://www.ebase.org/

I checked their Site, and it says that they provide customer phone support, so you need to ask them your questions, and I suggest that you take the time to read the information available on their site as well.

The purpose of FM Forums, is not to support any, and all files that have been created through the years by who know who, but instead to help you understand about the different FileMaker Functions, Features, and what they can do, or not do.

BTW, the first place for support should always be with the originator of a file. Sometimes they provide it free support, sometimes you have to sign an agreement for covered a period of time, sometimes they offer up front training, etc. You should check your records and see where you stand with this, as it is pretty spelled out on their site. According to what I saw at their site, they offer many ways for you to learn.

Also, I see you have placed your skill level at Novice. I don't think I would be monkeying around with these files at your skill level.

If you do, and you have the access level, than do it with a copy, never the original files. As I said, I only quickly looked around their site, but it became obvious that you can look forward to a steep learning curve.

HTt

Lee

[bowie101]

thank you both.

I'm familiar with the Ebase site, as I took a look last week.

this being a FileMaker Pro forum, where I see people have had problems and questions similar to mine, and they have been answered, I found it appropriate to ask my question here.

So, I guess that I'm looking for that particular feature, and my guess is that it's a calculated field. Any other possibilities, anyone?

[Lee Smith]

If you want support for the Ebase file, then you should contact them.

If you are creating a file of your own, and have a question, then it is likely that you will know enough about the file, for us to help you find a solution. The problem with trying to support a third party's file, is that neither of us know what the intent, and / or purpose of why they did something one way or another. You also need to be concerned with any license agreements you have for the product. A developer is usually pretty fussy about someone messing with their files, this could cause you to invalid any support, or warranties with them.

Lee

Edited October 9, 2006 by Guest
clean up