Entering the same values in a number of records

[batixan]

Hello,

I have a database in which i have entered more than 100 records. After a while I realized that i need an extra field. Is there any way to enter the same entry (for example 1) in all 100 records? I don't want to make it Global field because the value of the field will be 1 or -1. So the Global field option doesn't solve my problem.

Thank in advance.

[LaRetta]

Hi Batixan,

Back up first.

You can use Replace Field Contents[] or even a loop through your records (must be scripted). Replace Field Contents[] would be simple, assuming you are not served ... place your cursor in the new field in any record (be sure all records are in your found set) and type a 1. Then select Records > Replace Field Contents and it should be already selected 'replace with 1'. Just click the Replace button.

If some records should get a 1 and some get a -1 then you will need to use the calculation portion of Replace Field Contents. Open the calculation dialog and enter a Case() calculation depending upon the criteria you specify. For instance, if another field called TYPE is empty, you want a -1 but if TYPE has a value enter a 1 (this is illogical example so you must use your own criteria). In this instance, the calculation would be something like:

Case ( IsEmpty ( TYPE ) ; -1 ; 1 )

... which says is type is empty, enter -1, else enter 1. Then for future, you can set that field with an auto-enter with the same logic so it will do it automatically for new records, if you wish. If this does not meet your need please explain more. :^)

The other way is to make the field a calculation with the value you wish. Do NOT make it unstored. Exit field definitions then go back in and change it back to a regular number field. The value will have changed for all records automatically.

[batixan]

Hi Batixan,

Back up first.

You can use Replace Field Contents[] or even a loop through your records (must be scripted). Replace Field Contents[] would be simple, assuming you are not served ... place your cursor in the new field in any record (be sure all records are in your found set) and type a 1. Then select Records > Replace Field Contents and it should be already selected 'replace with 1'. Just click the Replace button.

If some records should get a 1 and some get a -1 then you will need to use the calculation portion of Replace Field Contents. Open the calculation dialog and enter a Case() calculation depending upon the criteria you specify. For instance, if another field called TYPE is empty, you want a -1 but if TYPE has a value enter a 1 (this is illogical example so you must use your own criteria). In this instance, the calculation would be something like:

Case ( IsEmpty ( TYPE ) ; -1 ; 1 )

... which says is type is empty, enter -1, else enter 1. Then for future, you can set that field with an auto-enter with the same logic so it will do it automatically for new records, if you wish. If this does not meet your need please explain more. :^)

The other way is to make the field a calculation with the value you wish. Do NOT make it unstored. Exit field definitions then go back in and change it back to a regular number field. The value will have changed for all records automatically.

Thanks LaRetta.

It worked.

[bcooney]

Why would you want the same value in all records? What are you doing?

[LaRetta]

Hi Barbara,

Many times we use auto-enter data or pre-fill with a single value. It isn't an unusual request. And it might be two possible values (1 or -1)? I am curious what yellow flag went off to make you ask the question - I'm not disagreeing, just asking for your thinking on it. :^)

Aha! http://fmforums.com/forum/topic/82973-absolute-number/page__fromsearch__1

Now I see why you ask. I hadn't read that one yet.

[batixan]

Why would you want the same value in all records? What are you doing?

Hi Barbara,

Many times we use auto-enter data or pre-fill with a single value. It isn't an unusual request. And it might be two possible values (1 or -1)? I am curious what yellow flag went off to make you ask the question - I'm not disagreeing, just asking for your thinking on it. :^)

Aha! http://fmforums.com/...__fromsearch__1

Now I see why you ask. I hadn't read that one yet.

Well, as i solved the one problem i faced another one. And the other one is described in the other topic. Thanks a lot for your help.

[bcooney]

LaRetta - The "yellow flag" is that Batixan is asking for techniques (in the other post as well) that hint at a need to step back and reconsider his data model.

Batixan, I don't mean to be a pita, but your questions suggest to me that you need help with your basic table/relationship structure, what we refer to as the "data model."

[batixan]

LaRetta - The "yellow flag" is that Batixan is asking for techniques (in the other post as well) that hint at a need to step back and reconsider his data model.

Batixan, I don't mean to be a pita, but your questions suggest to me that you need help with your basic table/relationship structure, what we refer to as the "data model."

Bcooney, you are right. The problem is with the data model because i try to adapt a ready to use solution in my needs. The solution is FM Starting Point. So i try to find in every step of the solution a new way in order to meet my needs.

[bcooney]

FM Starting Point is quality stuff and not a bad place to start. If you care to describe your requirements, we'll suggest a data model. Invoicing systems are quite complex, in many cases, and perhaps you're better served contacting a local FM developer, if just for an afternoon session.

[batixan]

FM Starting Point is quality stuff and not a bad place to start. If you care to describe your requirements, we'll suggest a data model. Invoicing systems are quite complex, in many cases, and perhaps you're better served contacting a local FM developer, if just for an afternoon session.

I have a small laboratory. The laboratory have many products and many vendors. The thing I want is to have a solution with which I could be able to trace my products, to have an inventory and to know to who how much i own.

I know that the FM Starting point solution is more for vendors and not for laboratories. But with some changes i have made on the solution i make it works for the 75% of my needs.

I hope i learn more things while experiencing with the FM starting solution so that i create my own database for my lab.

Thanks.