search and replace a field in a record

[sikanruobc]

This is probably a dumb question, and one that I bet has already been asked, but I'm a beginner and couldn't find the answer in the search.

In my file, each record has a field that generates an automatic serial number when a new record is made. But I want to create another field that if used will search for an old record and will replace the old serial number with the new serial number? Does this make sense?

Edited March 16, 2007 by Guest

[Lee Smith]

Hi sikanruobc, and Welcome to the Forum.

A serial number usually has meaning and should not be tamper with. Often they are behind the scene reletional Keys, or controlling billings, etc..., changing one, can often lead to borken links, and really mess you up.

Tell us why you would want to update the number? And we will see if there isn't a better way.

I see you are using v6 by your profile, it this hasn't changed, we need to be mindful of that when we suggest solutions. It is wise to include the platform and version in the First post of the Tread, so that it is plain to us which one you will be using.

HTH

Lee

[sikanruobc]

I guess what I was trying to say was that I'm trying to create a database that when a new record is created it will generate a serial number that will work for the fiscal year. Example, 07-001, 07-002, 07-003, etc. BUT, if a record needs to be voided or deleted, it will not skip the number that it gave to the deleted record. Does this make sense? We're using FileMaker Pro 6 and on a Mac OS X Tiger.

Thanks in advance for any help or guidance you or anyone can provide.

Also, how do I relate the fiscal year to the serial numbers? I mean, how do I make the serial number change to 08-001, etc. once the calendar hits July 1, 2007?

Thanks again.

[Lee Smith]

This subject has come up in the past. Recently I think someone suggested a Custom Function for this.

I just did a search for [color:blue]+serial +number +annual and came up with this post. Link However, the post I remember wasn't in the hit, so do some searching using some varibles in the keywords. (i.e. +Resetting, +Custom +Function, etc.)

Lee

[sikanruobc]

This is a great link! Thanks!