Datasheet

14.5.2 Making a static OLE object dynamic
A dynamic static OLE object is a picture or metafile that you access in Crystal Reports by use of a file
path or URL. Typically, you use this option when you have the path to your pictures or metafiles stored
as a string field in a database (that is, you do not have the actual objects stored in the database). You
can also use this option when you have pictures or metafiles stored on a network share, and you know
these objects change occasionally.
The functionality of these dynamic static OLE objects (or dynamic graphics) is created in Crystal Reports
through the use of a conditional formatting formula that allows you to link to static OLE objects by
reference.
Note:
• This feature is activated when you refresh your report data; therefore, you may not notice a change
in the static OLE object until you click the Refresh button in Crystal Reports.
• When you schedule a report that contains a dynamic static OLE object in SAP BusinessObjects
Enterprise, the instances that are created contain the version of the static OLE object as it existed
in your Crystal report when you scheduled it. SAP BusinessObjects Enterprise does not update the
object dynamically for each instance.
• Reports that use an absolute or a relative path for a dynamic static OLE object are not supported
in an SAP BusinessObjects Enterprise environment for this release. If you plan to publish reports
that contain dynamic static OLE objects to SAP BusinessObjects Enterprise, it is recommend that
you use URL links for your OLE objects.
14.5.2.1 To make a static OLE object dynamic
1.
Right-click the static OLE object that you inserted, and choose Format Graphic from the shortcut
menu.
Note:
You begin the process of making a static OLE object dynamic by inserting the object into your report
as usual. This object becomes the default object. If Crystal Reports cannot find the dynamic reference
to the object, it uses the default object instead.
2.
In the Format Editor, click the Picture tab, and then click the Conditional Formula button
adjacent to the Graphic Location label.
3.
In the Formula Workshop, create the path to your static OLE object.
For example, if your path is stored in a database field, add that field to the formula.
4.
Click Save and close to return to the Format Editor.
5.
Click OK to return to your report.
2011-05-16307
OLE