Changing container field optimization - content disappears

November 1, 201213 yr

I have some container fields that were optimized for images, containing pdf files that were inserted as files. I changed the field to be optimized for interactive content so that the user can see the pdf, but the files just disappear. They reappear if I change the optimization back to images.

There are a lot of them so I don't want to have to re-insert each file as pdf

I have already tried importing the container data from a backup.

I have also tried setting the field contents in a variable, then inserting pdf with the variable as the filepath.

Neither worked.

Any suggestions?

November 2, 201213 yr

With container fields in FMP 12 you will have to make the decision at the out set how the content will be used from day one - files ( document icons) or interactive PDF's

expert from another email list on this topic

1. FileMaker 12's Inspector makes it seem like you can easily toggle back-and-forth between the 2 container field options ("optimize for images" vs. "optimize for interactive content"), but in fact, that's not really true. You're more-or-less "stuck" with the first choice that you make. In other words:

2. If you set a container field to "optimize for Images", you can only insert files as thumbnails, and it will NEVER DISPLAY ANY PREVIOUSLY-INSERTED PDF'S as Interactive, EVEN IF you change the container field to "optimize for interactive content".

3. On the other hand, if you initially set the container field to "optimize for interactive content", you have the option to "insert (an interactive) PDF", but you'll never be able to see that PDF as an icon, even if you change the container field to "optimize for images". That PDF will ALWAYS be shown as a thumbnail of the PDF, even if the interactive features have been disabled.

4. So basically, you need to decide upfront how you want your users to view and/or interact with their embedded PDF files, or else it will be a real pain to change later.

November 3, 201213 yr

Author

OK thanks Stephen.

Looks like it can't be transferred by a script. The only way is to tell the user to insert any new fields as a picture, otherwise start again and re-insert all of them.