auto checking a value in a checkbox value list

[Adam]

Can anyone enlighten me on this subject.

I am trying to introduce a field with value list as check boxes - the first checkbox needs to be checked by default but i cannot seem to be able to figure out how this is done.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[dspires]

When you define the field, open options and Auto-Enter data - enter the choice that you want to be checked.

[Adam]

quote:

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Originally posted by dspires:

When you define the field, open options and Auto-Enter data - enter the choice that you want to be checked.

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I have already tried this. Is there some kind of syntax I need to encapsulate my choice?

[dspires]

none required just make sure that it matches the enrty in your value list - include the carriage return afterwards.

[Vaughan]

You shouldn't need a carriage return at the end. The value list entry won't include a carriage return and FMP ignors them anyway except as a delimiter character between items (like multiple selected items in a checkbox).

Check the typing is exactly the same, then make a *new* record. The preselected option will only appear on new records (that's how auto-enter works).

[Adam]

Cheers for the advice. It does now work with NEW records!!

To auto check the box on old records I assume I will have to import somehow the old records into a duplicate database to get them to auto check the box i need checked.

Will this affect the other boxes that are checked?

[dspires]

Create a script to add the field entry to the field:

Loop

Set Field["field","the entry wanted" & "|P" & "field"] (the '|P' is a return)

Go to Record/Request/Page [Exit after last, Next]

End Loop

Find all of the records that don't have that entry in the field (using omit).

Go to the first record and run the script.

[This message has been edited by dspires (edited October 26, 2000).]

[Adam]

Excellent that has worked....not sure if this is what my boss wants but it's what he asked for....brilliant...I owe you one!!

[Vaughan]

This script changes the contents of the field in all the records to a new (fixed) value. Think carefully (and make a backup) before you perform this script as you will be irreversibly modifying your database records.