Set Container Field

[MelJ]

I'm trying to figure out how to insert a picture into a container field. I have been using the "gotofield" and then inserting the picture into the field. But I need to put the picture into the field when the field is not on the layout.

I'm hoping this is an easy one.

Thanks,

Mel

[Lee Smith]

Take a look at the example files that came with your Application.

FileMaker Pro 9:English Extras:Templates:Home - Collections:Photo Catalog.fp7

HTH

Lee

Edited August 26, 2007 by Guest

[Fenton]

I don't think you can Insert Picture unless the field is on the layout. Because there's no "target field" in the Insert Picture script step. But you can easily switch to the layout, Insert, then switch back; using Freeze Window to hide the action. Would that not work? Or does Windows flash badly when you do that?

[MelJ]

You bring up an interesting subject that maybe I don't completely understand. The Freeze Window step doesn't seem to do anything except when running loops. If I freeze a window then change layouts it hides nothing. That's the reason for all of my extra research for setting fields in an unconventional way. When I do it the conventional way and change layouts, set fields, etc., etc., YOU COULD USE MY MONITOR FOR A STROBE LIGHT! As a result, I try to avoid changing layouts at all costs. (During a script run of course)

Thanks,

Mel

[Fenton]

It seems to be an operating system difference. Macs just don't redraw the screen when you change layouts then back again during a script (unless you force it to), especially if you use Freeze Window.

Apparently it's even worse with FileMaker 9, and many have complained. On a positive note I have seen, on the TechNet list (which costs $99/year to join, and has good info), that FileMaker seems to be aware of the problem. Hopefully the next update will lessen the flashing. But I think some of it is also the OS. Windows just flashes more. Otherwise it's pretty snappy, but I like the Mac experience better.

It is also important to not put any steps that force (or even encourage) redrawing the screen. No Adjust Window steps, etc..

Another alternative in this situation is to put the container field on the layout, if possible, but really really small, like 1 pixel. Hide in a corner, or a corner of an object.

[MelJ]

You would think that they could come up with a way to just refresh the field that was updated. FileMaker refreshes the screen even if the field that has been updated is not on the layout! (go figure)

To add further aggrivation, it also updates everyone else's screen that happens to be on the network!

[timeandspace]

hi, i'm trying to figure out if filemaker 8.5 has a photo catalog feature, or if this is new to filemaker 9. can anyone ellaborate on the superior difference of using a photo catalog theme vs. the old way of inserting single pictures?

thanks!

[Fenton]

There is not really a "photo catalog feature". You always are adding single pictures (though you use Import Folder to import a lot at once). But you can build something that looks and works like a "contact sheet." I like this example that Genx made:

http://fmforums.com/forum/showtopic.php?tid/184840/

[MelJ]

I've discovered a way to set my container fields when they are not on the layout and thought I would share it with anyone that may have the same situation.

I've created a table filled with global container fields. I name each field to describe the picture that it holds.

After that it's a sinch!

set field[table one::container field;global pics::picture you want.]

This way you don't have to worry about the field being on the layout.