Dark Ages version of FileMaker Pro

January 17, 2007 11:24 AM

I'm using Filemaker Pro 5.5 and one of the fields is locked, so to speak. It's supposed to have several possible entries/terms but only one pops up when you click on it. I therefore can't search for records with any other terms. Any ideas how to fix this?
posted by anonymous78 to Technology (4 answers total)

You can do this, but you need to have permission to modify the settings for fields or Value Lists contained globally in FileMaker. You may want to check as this will affect all users of the database.

1. Quick and dirty way - allow entry into field. Go to Layout mode - View>Layout Mode. Rightclick the field and select Field Format. Check the Allow entry into Field checkbox.

OR

2. Define custom values with which to search by...

The field is restricted to only values that are pre-specified in a "Value List". Sometimes you can edit these value lists in the cell itself, but only if the edit setting is turned on for the value list.

To find out what Value List is - on the FileMaker program menu - click on View and Layout Mode (if you cannot find this menu option - then you do not have permission and will need to find someone that does). In layout mode - right-click on the field that you wish to edit and choose Field Format. In the field format box "Pop-up list" should be selected. Note the Value List listed to the right of the Pop-up list setting. Cancel this box and go back to browse mode (View>Browse Mode).

Now choose File>Define Value Lists. Select the List specified in the previous step and choose edit. Enter the custom values in the right hand box.

If you do have access to all of this - then be careful because any changes you make will affect all users.
posted by clarkie666 at 11:43 AM on January 17, 2007

Make a copy of the database to play with if you're not experienced with Filemaker Pro layouts.

I still use Filemaker Pro 6 from time to time and I don't THINK any of this is different in 5.5, but YMMV.

Go into Layout mode on the screen with the problem. Control-click (Right-click if it's a PC) on the field that you want to change, and choose Field Format from the menu.

It sounds like it's set to Pop-up Menu using a Value List. You can check the box for "Include Other... item to allow entry of other values" or you can switch it to a Standard Field (type what you want) or a Pop-up List, which lets you type what you what while still offering you some pre-defined choices.

Should do the trick.
posted by bcwinters at 11:43 AM on January 17, 2007

Just for the future, I couldn't resist giving a shout-out to FMForums.com. There are some tremendously helpful people over there, who've helped me when all else (manuals, books, Google, tea leaves) have failed.
posted by Kadin2048 at 1:22 PM on January 17, 2007

Seconding bcwinters on the immense importance of backing up before you futz around with your database. I mess with the Filemaker database where I work, and I have no clue what I'm doing. I keep a file called "Filemaker Database X ROSSINATION'S TESTER COPY DO NOT USE". Works great for testing stuff.

Also, yes, FMForums.com is fantastic. They have answered many questions for me (a total filemaker n00b) and they are friendly and helpful. Also, if you can get a copy of the Filemaker Bible for your version (should be cheap on eBay), it is a nice resource to have as well.
posted by rossination at 4:49 PM on January 17, 2007