U.M. (Windows)

Creating a database file 2-9
1 If you create or edit records using FileMaker Pro Web Companion,
auto-entered data appears only after the record has been submitted
from the browser software.
1 Select Calculated value to calculate a value only when a record is first
created or when a value in a field the calculation refers to changes (as
long as the field with the calculation doesn’t already contain a value).
If necessary, you can enter a different value in the field (when Prohibit
modification of field isn’t selected). However, when you want a
calculated value that’s always up to date and which you can’t change
by entering data in the field, define the field as a calculation field. See
“Defining database fields” on page 2-3 and “Understanding
formulas” on page 2-13.
1 When the data in a validated field doesn’t meet the validation
requirements, users see a warning message when they try to move out
of the current record. If Strict: Do not allow user to override validation is
set for the field, users must correct the data before moving out of the
record. You can use Display custom message if validation fails to give
users the data requirements.
1 To save time during data entry and to validate fields, define value lists.
Value lists aren’t attached to any field definition. You can format value
lists to display in a pop-up (drop-down) list or menu, or as checkboxes
or radio buttons. See “Defining value lists” on page 3-74.
Defining global fields
A global field contains one value that’s used for all records in a file. Use
the value of a global field:
1 to declare variables in If, Else, End If, Loop, End Loop, and Exit
Loop If script steps
1 for fields that rarely need to be updated. For example, use a global
field to put your company logo (a graphic) and address (text fields)
on several layouts. You can quickly update the field if needed without
having to update each layout.
1 as a fixed value to be used in calculations in all records in a file
Choose FileMaker Help Index from the Help menu, and then type:
E data entry options
?