Using VPLUS: An Introduction to Forms Design (32209-90004)
1-6
:RUN ENTRY.PUB.SYS RETURN
When the operating system accepts this command, ENTRY is in control. You
use ENTRY to perform the following data entry functions:
* Name the forms file containing the forms to be displayed.
* Create a batch file to contain the entered data or access an existing
batch file.
* Enter data on the displayed forms, correct any errors detected by
ENTRY. Valid data is written to records in the batch file.
* Look at the data written to the batch file records.
After you name the forms file and batch file in line mode, ENTRY
transfers to block mode, described earlier.
Data Collection
The data is typed into the "unprotected fields" on the forms displayed at
the terminal by ENTRY. When you have typed in all the data in a
form, press ENTER. ENTRY then processes the data according to the
specifications for the form defined through FORMSPEC. If it detects any
errors, ENTRY re-displays the form, highlights the fields with errors,
and displays an error message for the first error. When all errors have
been corrected, ENTRY accepts the data, writes it to the named batch
file, and displays the next form.
The sequence of the forms is completely determined at design time. Your
only control over forms sequence in Collect mode is through function
keys that allow you to request the "head" form or to stop a repeating
form.
Browse and Modify
The data entered through each form is written to a single record in a
batch file maintained by ENTRY. You may look at and correct, if desired,
the data in each record. ENTRY has a browse/modify mode selected by
pressing a function key. In this mode, you are shown the data previously
entered and edited in any form. Using function keys you can display any
previously entered data. The data is shown as it appeared when you
entered it, and you can correct data at this point and then press ENTER
to record these corrections in the batch file.
The next sections of this manual illustrate, through working examples,
exactly how you enter data, view the entered data, and modify it if
needed.
ENTRY Function Keys
The function keys on the terminal keyboard are assigned special func-