App-2-Win
Systems, Inc.
LookFeel for Windows What's New
What's new 27 Nov 2002 Version 6.2j LFW and Version 7bSP3 and Version 8.2 and LFWeb
LFWeb - Creation of WebApp views and
selection lists from the same LFW scripts use to create Windows VDF code. This is a major processing add-on to LFW. It creates both the ASP and WBO code for a
total WebApp solution. Since LFW uses
common code between VDF8 and VDF7, it is possible to develop in VDF8 for
Windows with a common workspace with WebApp (VDF7) without problems. The code generated by LFWeb currently
requires IE5+ to run correctly.
Added special automatic constraint processing to the LFW generated selection
lists. The associated LFW command is
##SL_Constraint. If set to yes in a
standard LFW SL script, the script will be converted to a new style with added
buttons, entry dialog, and support methods.
This is also supported by LFWeb.
The Look and Feel parameters of the generated WebApps is controled by an .ini file. As the product matures, more processing options will be added. The .ini has a special [TEST] area that can be used to modify any of the processing parameters on a temporary basis. Each WebApp view has its own parameter area.
Added a processing button to the list processing utility to remove duplicates from the input list.
What's new 4 Sept 2002 Version 6.2j LFW and Version 7bSP3 and Version 8.2
Added new processing routines to give earlier warning if changes are made to key fields. A new set of entry templates have been created.
##AUTO_DEOFNCL ##AUTO_DEOFNNCL
Added the ability to move code to different objects of the view. This allows the use of LFW internal replacement ($$???$$) commands during creation, and then move the code to another object. The code property and code next line moves are special cases where only one line is moved.
##MOVE_CODE_METHOD ##MOVE_CODE_PROPERTY ##MOVE_CODE_NEXT_LINE
Added routines to move the nochange live refresh to a non-indexed, non-entry
field if possible.
##MOVE_NOCHANGELIVE_REFRESH
Modify the standard VDF prompts to use the main data file prompt for parent
fields when there is an active main file record for the view. A main file buffer load method is created
and automatically fired when during the prompt callback for the field. All indexed fields of the main file are
loaded with values from the entry forms of the view or from files if no entry.
##MAIN_LOOKUP_WHEN_ACTIVE
##MAIN_LOOKUP_BUFFER_LOAD
##MAIN_LOOKUP_PMAINSLCOL_IN_CLASS
What's new 14 May 2002 Version 6.2j LFW and Version 7bSP3 and Version 8.1a
Many mods for VDF8 processing. Added
processing to generation and templates for company, product, version, and
program. The ##Company, ##Product,
##Version, ##Program, ##Helpfile, ##Helptype, ##EnterAsTabKey,
##PreserveEnvironment, and ##Open_as_root_fix LFW commands have been
added. The routines that process
extensions now allow mulitple periods in the name, using the last segment as
the extension.
What's new 20 Jan 2002 Version 6.2j LFW and Version 7bSP3 and Version 8a
Added the ##Anchor and ##Anchor_????
LFW commands. These commands
allow the auto-generated output of LFW to support anchors, minsize, and maxsize in VDF8.
A "smart" processing program has been added to LFW to support
generation of anchors. There is now a
LFWSys??.ini file located on the install directory that can set generation
parameters for all workspaces (global).
What's new 17 Dec 2001 Version
6.2j LFW and Version 7bSP3
Added the ##gen_with_file_names LFW command. This command allows the auto-generated output of LFW to be a form
that supports changing filenumbers. The
command enables increased dynamics between workspaces. There are many times, especially when
working with legacy database structures, when key modules such as menuing or
security are hard to clone because file numbers are not available. This command will allow these programs and
DDs to be cloned directly from workspace to workspace without care where the
files are in the filelist. The ##Audit and ##Audit_this_field LFW commands have
been added to support create/update/delete record auditing down to the field
level. The ##DDO_Extended_fields LFW
command was added to support WebApp and easier access to text/binary fields.
What's new 26 Nov 2001 Version
6.2j LFW and Version 7bSP3
Added two new utilities, "Class Display" and "List
Programmer", to the "LFW Tools" tab page. The Class Display program will process the
VDF and the user files containing class definitions and create an information
database. The program can then query
this database for property and method information. The query can be a tree display or a WinPrint document. The files to be processed are maintained in
a text file, and can be anywhere on the computer or network. The List Programmer program will convert a text
list into code using find and replace processing for each line in the
list. All the fields of a database can
be loaded automatically by just typing in the file name and selecting the
operation. The number of lines created
per line of the text list is not restricted and there is a 32k limit to the
amount of generated code. The output is
written to a text file, but will normally be used with cut/paste. The replacement can remain natural (as read
from the file), or can be forced upper or lower case.
What's new 27 Sept 2001 Version
6.2j LFW and Version 7bSP3
Fixed a problem where the "FIELD_CLASS_NAME" (##class_name) was
not being set for fields in the DD.
Fixed a problem with VDF7 not liking the "Set Item_Option item 0
NoEnter to TRUE" as part of the construct_object. The program has been changed to generate a
"Set Enabled_State to FALSE" instead. (Turns out it was a timing
problem of object generation.) The
##label_replace command can now be put in the LFW??.INI file for a global label
replacement. The ##conditional_entry
tests now work when the field tested is in a list or grid. Added the ##STATUS_TEXT_ACTIVE_CHANGED and
##STATUS_TEXT_INACTIVE_CHANGED commands to support the two different
states. To use these states, the onkillfocus
method for each of the entry classes needs to be augmented. The ##Status_Text_?? commands for text
labels can now be put into the LFW??.INI file for a global workspace
solution. Modified code so
##StickyTab_Set and ##StickyTab_Set_Right commands can now be in the LFW.ini
file for the workspace. Modified the
make workspace to use the DF SystemMakePath instead the SystemDFPath to make
sure the global precompiled package is in the search path. Mod support for workspace global classes so
now works correctly. The search order is WS\name\pgm - WS\name - WS - Defaults.
What's new 25 July 2001 Version
6.2j LFW and Version 7bSP3
$$ALLENT$$ LFW internal replacement added to support global and workspace
precompiles. The standard classes are
now taken from the workspace (if available) else will use standard VDF db??? classes. Modified the ##IPrompt command to insert a set Prompt_Button_Mode
if the command is used. Mods to the
launch routines for the various edit buttons to enable spaces in the workspace
paths.
What's new 20 Feb 2001 Version
6.2j LFW and Version 7bSP3
##WIN_APP_DD_CHAR ##WEB_APP_DD_CHAR
Fixed some problems with the LFWMakVr (make variables) program to better
handle big programs, especially .vws stand alone utility programs. Disabled the ability to update use/include
files... it was just too dangerous.
Added the .vws extension to the file type selection pull down. The ##Abort command can now be put into the
LFW??.ini file with a launch program argument.
Any abort will then launch this program when triggered instead of just
aborting. This capability was added to
facilitate LFWWeb development which uses the jumps out of the normal processing
to continue with special web processing.
Added the ##Web_Gen_HTML , ##Web_Gen_WPO , ##Web_TabPage_Buttons ,
##Web_TabPage_Frame , and the ##Web_Table_Segments LFW commands to support web
generation. Added the
##DD_Extension_Char LFW command to change the extension of USEd DD files. This was added so the "regular"
.dd extension can be reserved for WebStudio development. The $$DDLEAD$$ internal replacement and the
##DD_Object_Leadin LFW command have been added to support the new object naming
convention of VDF. The "o"
can now precede the DataDictionary object names and the replacement allows the
"o" to be added to hand coded references to DD objects.
What's new 03 Jan 2001 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Happy New Year! Fixed a problem with regular files having
hard relates to alias files. The LFW
data dictionary program now reports/checks the relationships correctly. Mod the ##Get_Value / ##Set_Value LFW
commands to generate code using a server when creating view code not accessing
a DEO (for example, a database value for a field not having a DEO in the
view.) Grids and Lists are now
supported (not just dbGrid and dbList).
What's new 21 Nov 2000 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Alias file maintenance has been strengthened... again. The alias processing routines are now "friendly" towards hand edits in the "above class" area.
What's new 19 Oct 2000 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Alias file maintenance has been strengthened. The filelist can now be updated directly. The "before class" edit area can now be seeded with set_relates for all parent fields to make entry easier. An active LFW alias can be "cloned" to make entry much faster.
Fixed a problem with size "hints" in grid and list autosizing. The autosizing routine was thinking the hint was user entered an then would not resize. Fixed by bypassing hints in grids and lists.
Program to create variables from source code. Code can be cut from other programs and made into methods, then this program is run to create all the variables required. The LFW DataDict file is used to help type the variables.
Positioning of checkbox fields defaults to the default entry column plus the VDF_Checkbox_Adj (9)
Revisited the processing of duplicate fields. If a field is in both a dbGrid and a form, the form will have the name priority for conditional entry operations. At this time, conditional entry is a NOP in dbGrids. The ##Validate_CodeMast command was enabled which will tie a CodeMast validation to any field. A special cmlookup.sl is supplied for prompt support.
Added the $$#????$$ internal replacements for filename and number... if you know one, you can get other with this replacement.
What's new 12 July 2000 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Revisited the ##get_value / ##set_value commands when the destination or target is a combobox. Now converts the data to description and back. Works correctly with ##Conditional_Entry command, including default values. All the LFW commands use the data value and not the description value.
Add the STD_METH.tem that can be ##Include into x???UPDD.let files to seed all the standard DD methods, such as save_main_file, backout, update, etc.
Added five new LFW internal replacements $$FIELDLFW$$, $$LASTFIELDFILE$$, $$LASTFIELDNAME$$, $$LASTFIELDLFW$$, and $$LASTOBJECT$$. These are the values for the last ##Fld and ##dFld LFW commands only. The replacement is early in the script processing, so the replacements can be used in ##Include files containing LFW commands without problems. Note there may not be an exact one-to-one between the existing $$FIELDFILE$$, $$FIELDNAME$$, and $$OBJECT$$ replacements and the new commands on the next object. The new commands only change when exiting a ##Fld or ##dFld script area. The $$NULL$$ internal LFW replacement can be used in ##Status_Help commands. The replacement is the valid null value for the field.
Revisited the tests for existing methods for /Radio_Group.
What's new 14 June 2000 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Mod to the way checkboxes are handled by the ##Conditional_Entry command. Can now test or set default correctly. The DD processing program will now correctly process send commands in the Define_Fields method. It should be noted DDBuilder does not like sends in this method. It may be better to use the End_Construct_Object method.
What's new 8 June 2000 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Minor mod to the DEOFocus.tem LFW template file. A property was being set incorrectly forcing an extra find_by_recnum to be sent by the LFW autofind method. This was forcing a "changed state" and resulting confirmation. The autofind method now returns a not found (and message) for the initial find of a parent when the validation is activated by a save.
What's new 18 May 2000 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Modified the use of label hints. The hint now keeps both the long and short label (if total <48 characters) and defaults to using the long label. When processing grids, the short label will be used if the long label is longer than the data field. Also on using label hints, if the first word of the label is the file name and the name is the main file of the view, the name is stripped.
Source for header / child sample has been added to help topics. This sample includes code to control access to tab pages and grids based on value and property. It will also controls the enable-state of the cancel button of a selection list. It also shows how to dynamically change a text field and How to use LFW AutoFind_GE
What's new 11 May 2000 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Added the ##DD_Debug command to make this tool readily available. The LFW created DDs now include the LFW_Changed_State_Test procedure which is used to match the DD changed state with the actual file representation. See "How to protect an indexed auto-increment field" for usage information.
What's new 5 May 2000 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Revisited alias file DD creation. It now uses the construct object template. Added the ##Entry_Form_Number_Class, ##Entry_Form_Date_Class, and ##Entry_Form_ASCii_Class support commands. There are also registry entries to set defaults for the new commands. The new classes allow better "fine tuning" of classes used by LFW. For example, adding one line to the LFW.ini file and re-generating can now change all the date entry form classes. The default value for all is "dbForm".
What's new 1 May 2000 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Completed testing with 6.2 There was a problem with "Define_Auto_Increment" processing in the DDs that has been fixed. The function to get the DEO value from a DD has been modified. The autofind for foreign files has been modified.
What's new 21-25 Apr 2000 VERSION 6.2i LFW
Most of this round of mods are for making better DDs using the standard DF validations. The new commands are:
##Key_Field_Protect (set the DD's Protect_Key_State)
##DD_Property_Check (disable checks for proper setting of LFW properties in DDs)
##DF_Warnings (disable warnings when LFW NoNull is converted to DF Required)
##Cascade_Delete (set the DDs Cascade_Delete_State)
##Foreign_FindReq_Global (set the DD's foreign field option for all rather than specific)
##DD_Open_As (use the "Open As" to open the data files)
##Web_App (Modifies the defaults of DD related commands)
##Web_App_DD_Char (creates a separate DD file)
##Java_Script (NOP-Include Java Script functions for LFW replacements.)
##All_DAC_DD (similar to ##Web_App but does not make lettered DD and also sets Range and Checks to use DAC standard)
The processing has been modified (made smarter) to allow the use of ##Validate_Function at the same time DF validations are used. If there are no user defined validations, the validation driver is not created.
Modified some of the templates and LFW60.ini to take advantage of the new commands. The #IFDEF Is$WebApp compiler option was also added to some templates and to the DD processing. The LFW validation drivers are set to force no DEO access if is defined. A [WEBAPP] section has been added to the LFW60.ini file, and is processed after all other .ini passes if the ##Web_App command is in the .ini file.
Modified the DD routines to better update the MainLFW lookup and to use the ##Web_App_DD_Char to create a separate DD file if ##Web_App YES is used. The new file can have different DF Validation and DD options better suited to WebApp Server.
What's new 3 Mar 2000 VERSION 60h LFW
The ##Conditional_entry_property command now has an additional argument to set a default value for the property at clear. This allows more control when setting non-database fields. Fields with default values that may force a state but may not fire the test can also initiate to the proper state.
What's new 24 Feb 2000 VERSION 60h LFW
Fixed a problem with the set item_option statements. The VDF6 docs are incorrect and reflect the VDF5 usage. One form of usage was causing compiler errors.
Modified the generation of the do_entry_defaults and reset_properties methods to bypass blank Ids.
Create the pOrig-Focus property any time do_entry_defaults is created.
What's new 15 Feb 2000 VERSION 60h LFW
DISD load. Last of the "new stuff" mods until after the convention.
Mods to get the speed back to the multi-select lists in the LFW tools tab page. Now prints an "X" instead of bitmaps... much faster. The button label also displays progress by page when "select all" is pressed.
Mod to make program and the way the ET__ALL.src file is create for mass generations. Does a much better job when processing files of a huge filelist.
Fixed the Lotus ScrCam to look at the correct directory for the executable. The location changed with the new Wise install script.
What's new 13 Feb 2000 VERSION 60h LFW
Fixed a problem with DEMO mode operation.
Revisited resetting defaults when clearing for non-DB fields and properties related to objects controlled by ##Conditional_Entry_Property. The OnSetFocus of fields also checks to see if there is a need to reset and/or test. The generated code includes the "reset_properties" method which defaults conditional-entry properties to their unshadowed state.
Some minor code cleanup, primarily the use of = instead of EQ.
What's new 4 Feb 2000 VERSION 1h LFW6
Added a fourth argument to the ##ComboForm command to set the Validate_State of code selection lists.
##Get_Value and ##Set_Value can now be used in grid and list methods. The generated code automatically adjusts its access method depending on whether an entry item is a dbForm or a member of a dbGrid or dbList.
Labels for grids and lists now have trailing colons removed. ("name:" changed to "name")
A bug was fixed to generate code selection list objects in the DD when only ##CSL_Check "??" commands are used. The maximum length of checks was increased to 254 less the text of any other options.
Some fields, such as labels, are checked for closing quotes. This also catches times when the data is to long for the internal LFW storage allocation to avoid compile errors.
Added the ##Aggressive_dbGrid_Disp command to disable the dbGrid / dbList sizing warning message when it goes into "aggressive sizing" mode.
Added the ##Phantom and ##Phantom_Minimum commands to support "hidden" containers without messing up the automatic positioning and sizing of other containers.
Added "how to" help for "hidden" containers and adding dbGrid field exit method (EXACTLY the same as for a dbForm).
Added bitmap boxes to the "Create Maint. Views, SLs, DDs" and the "Update AB ABData/DDData" selection lists. Makes it much easier to see what's going on.
What's new 31 Jan 2000 VERSION 1h LFW6
The demo settings have been "loosened up". The demo will now run on any WorkSpace with limited files available. The prior version was limited to the LFW6Demo WorkSpace.
Now using the Wise InstallBuilder 8. The install now MUCH better. The install can now make a desktop shortcut, and can create a complete LFW6Demo WorkSpace. The LFW6Demo WorkSpace can be "refreshed" at any time using the install program.
Equations are now supported in dbGrids and dbLists columns. Code Selection List mods for more options, including table_title and validate_state (these had different names under VDF5.) Conditional_Entry does not generate un-needed field messages when set to process onChange, and correctly handles dbCheckBox controlling fields. Request_Clear will send Entry_default and TestYourConditionalEntry to all non-DB fields. Hints do a better job, especially on dbCheckBox fields.
If a /Dialog_3d is set to "invisible" border, it will size to its parent container.
If a /View_Client is based on a non-DB class and it has non-db entry fields, request_clear, request_save, and request_delete methods will be added to the first DB container (see /Dialog_3d NONE above) to allow proper processing of entry_defaults and conditional_entry.
A number of little "tweaks" since Aug 1999.
What's new 12 Aug 1999 VERSION 1g LFW6 and LFW5
Revisited the code generated by the ##FindReq_Prompt entry option. The command now does a "smart" jump into the selection list prompt. It will also display the prompt if there is more than one found to the entry depth (ASCII only). The exiting method has been modified to make sure the buffer and DEO are in sync at all times. The screen conversion program processing was modified to correct a problem with labels starting command lines with indicators. The DD script autogeneration program now adds a date range and OKNull to date fields so the special LFW date routines are available.
What's new 11 Aug 1999 VERSION 1g LFW6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
VDF6 version of LFW. New LFWNoScr program that also converts global variables and returns to use the proper forms for clean compiles. Mods to some generated lines, adding 'TO' to GETs and SETs to avoid compiler errors.
What's new 29 June 1999 VERSION 1g LFW5
Checked and/or modified all EraseFile commands used in the LFW system. There was one report of incorrect files being erased that may or may not have been caused by LFW. If you have a problem, PLEASE report it to LFW@App-2-Win.com as soon as possible. The lookups in the MainLFW program now support incremental searches.
What's new 10 June 1999 VERSION 1g LFW5
Continuing to upgrade the conversion of reports to WinPrint. The LFWdfWrite, LFWdfWriteln, and LFWdfOutput commands are available. The commands/methods are in the LFWwnPrt.tem file. The help system has been updated with the new commands and additional conversion topics. The "Process Cmds" button is now documented.
What's new 06 June 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
The program (LFWNoScr) to comment out (or replace) 2.3 style screen and keyboard commands has a new WinPrint option. If the ##Is_Report WinPrint LFW command is in the header section of a script, the WinPrint object and its support methods will be inserted into the script. Buttons will be placed at the bottom of the script using the Rbuttons.tem file. The original source code for the file will be added as a procedure. There is another .tem file used to include the LFW replacements for the dfWrite commands. These replacements process Epson and/or some HTML codes for output to the standard Windows printer. There were a couple of fixes to introduced problems with the LFWDD and LFWSL programs.
What's new 18 May 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
A program has been added to comment out (or replace) 2.3 style screen and keyboard commands. There is a control file named LFWNoScr.tem with a list of commands. An info-box is added for some commands that can not be replaced but should not execute. There were problems introduced into the auto generate programs that have been fixed in this version. There was also a bug fixed that hung the 2.3 conversion program when processing PRINT commands. The conversion program can now correctly process image fields formatted with __$.__ and __,__. The dollar format will automatically add a currency mask to the field {options} during the initial conversion.
What's new 11 May 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
Revisited the ##CSL_Check and ##ComboForm commands to make them stronger. The created CodeMast entries can now be longer than the field length of the entry object. The "one column" CodeLookup class is used if the code and description are equal. All of the appropriate packages are automatically USEd. There is now a DEFAULT option on the ##Default_value command for non-database fields that will automatically set the default to the first of the check group and load that value as the default in the comboform. The $$FORMTYPE$$ internal LFW replacement is available for use in non-database validations because the value returned by comboforms ( the description) is different than that of standard forms.
What's new 04 May 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
The conversion program now supports the "Name screen.1 varname" variant of the procedural NAME command. The code generated for non-database code lookups has been modified to be smarter. The creation of CodeMast entries using the ##CSL_Check (or CSL$Check=) is now more flexible. There has been a property added to the DDs, pIs_Header. This property is used to control the firing of the ##AutoFind_GE, ##AutoFind_GE_Match, and ##AutoFind_GE_Prompt commands during validation. AutoFind is always fired, even if used with a GE function. The ##AutoFind_GE_Prompt command has addressed many of the problems with the GE commands and works great. There is much better Multi-Edit support in the help system and configuration files for Multi-Edit are available.
What's new 14 April 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
Changes to the code genetated for the ##Set_Value command. If the field having the value set has a conditional entry or ##Set_Value, the LFW code generated for the DEO will be used. If the destination of the code is a DD, the "File_Field_Changed_Value" command will be used. All other accesses will be "File_Field_Changed_Value (server(self))" command will be used. When a ##Validate_Function user validation falls through, the appropriate style of field update will be used to load with the local_value. There were some problems with database fields not being updated even though the DEO value was changing. These changes force the intuitive operation.
What's new 02 April 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
Very minor mods to the code generated for inline checkboxes. ##Get_Value will now return a one if the field is checked and a 0 if unchecked. The default values are also changed to 1/0.
What's new 18 March 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
Mostly mods to the help system for better Multi-Edit access. The keyword list has both the ##COMMAND LFW command style and the COMMAND word without the ## lead-in. The "Seed Working" button in the MainLFW program now uses the directory date/time for the last access information.
What's new 16 March 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
The ##Add_Class command can be used to create/replace classes in user class files. The class files are updated during script processing, so all the normal LFW processing power can be used. The ##Replace and ##Include commands are particularly effective. Multiple class files can be updated in the same script. One command option will create a numbered backup file before modifying the class file. Normally, it is expected most classes specific to a file will be located in the X???UPDD.let script file. General classes should be in a "Class" script, just a dummy with enough commands to allow processing. A really neat trick is the creation of the class in the script that uses the class, allowing the use of common replacements with the view. A USE command for the class file can be added to the template file for the "Template_View" registry entry. LFWView.tem is the default template name for a view and LFWTView.tem is the default for a tab view.
What's new 8 March 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
You can now add code to any method in a DD via extensions to the ##Add_Info_DD command. This makes it possible to easily add the required code from multiple locations in the UPDD script. Code specific the field is added at the field so long term maintenance is easier. Remember to use the ##Replace and ##Include commands to create common routines.
What's new 1 March 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
It is now possible to bring size and location information back into LFW scripts from VDF IDE edits. See the "How to..." topic in the LFW help for detailed information. There have also been some changes to internal processing for international users. If there are problems using a non-USA date format or a comma numeric separator, please let us know. The LFW system will attempt to use correct defaults for local usage, but if there are problems. See the ##Date_Format, ##Date_Separator and the ##Decimal_Point commands.
What's new 16 February 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
Thanks to all for the excellent reception at the DISD summit in early February. The 5.1 version of VDF was released just before DISD. The 16 February, 1999 LFW build is VDF5.1 compatible. There were small changes required to the activate section of all of the LFW programs and to the templates for stand alone programs, including the test templates. Because of the scope of the programs affected by the changes, a new install will be required, and a "re-do" of each LFW workspace. There have been changes to the DDs created by LFW to make support of BPOs and WBPOs easier. Two new properties have been added, pOkDEO and pPropSet. The pOkDEO property controls the automatic prompts in the Foreign_FindReq_Prompt command. If TRUE (1), then the prompt is allowed, otherwise it is processed as a regular Foreign_FindReq. User validations can also use this property to control DEO access. Turning off DEO access allows the DDs to be better suited for BPOs and WBPOs. The pPropSet property was added as a safety to protect against improper usage of LFW created DDs. The pIs_Foreign property controls the action of many validation functions and must be set either by hand or by LFW generation. At the same time the pIs_Foreign property is set, the pPropSet property should be set to TRUE. The request_validate method in LFW generated DDs test the pPropSet property and will return an error if not true, protecting saves. Since LFW allows generation of DDs using the built-in DDBuilder options, the request_validate protection can be removed completely if LFW functions are not used and user validations do not test pIs_Foreign.
The Conversion program has been modified to allow a separate location column multiplier. This multiplier can be changed by line and also makes the initial screen processing more accurate. The column size still uses the regular column multiplier.
Coming soon are buttons on the "Output Files" tab page to create a BPO or a WBPO (web) file using the DD structure information from a selected view.
A very strange thing happened on this build... the size of the install download is 2.4 meg. smaller than the prior versions. Everything has tested ok, but I do not have a "why" answer. Please report any problems to LFW@App-2-Win.com.
What's new 1 February 1999 VERSION 1f LFW5
Sorry for the delays in updating this file... a whole version change without updating the "what's new". Many additions including the ##Tab_Hot series of commands to support generation of hot keys for tab pages. The ##INI_Group command allows lookups into up to six [groups] in the LFW50.ini file, primarily to support View_Tabs. View tabs have been revisited and it is now very easy to go from view to view tab, and the size of the test view and tab dialog can be set from within the script or by using the ##INI_Group command. While adding the ##Tab_Hot commands, some problems with multiple tab dialogs (nested) were corrected. The field length routines of grid and selection list processing were re-worked to provide "to the pixel" alignment on the parent container. The selection list program has been brought up to date and now behaves more like the other LFW processing programs. The $$HIGHDATE$$ replacement now checks for the type of command and tries to use the string representation when appropriate, like status-help, labels, and error messages. ##Verbose_Error and ##Error_labels commands allow greater manipulation of the presentation of error messages, including the use of VDF extended errors and the ability to also add the tab page of the error field.
The initial Lotus ScreenCam is once again included in the install download.
What's new 12 December 1998 VERSION 1d LFW5
Added a Default_Value of NULL to the update DD script whenever the screen conversion program adds a Check= option. This gives a visual sign that a manual edit is probably required. To support this change, it is now possible to use Default_Value as a {} field option. The reporting of the screen conversion program has been improved. Minor fix to processing of label hints.
What's new 09December 1998 VERSION 1e LFW5
Major features added to this build are alias file support, indicator conversion program, LFW processing hints, and the beginning mods for VDF 5.1 which is now in beta. Many files have been added or changed to support the new features, so a fresh install should be performed and a "re-do workspace setup" for each workspace. There are modifications to the templates and to the LFW50.INI file. As the main program loads, it will automatically fix a problem with LFW template names in the registry. The problem fixed is serious when using existing DDs with construct_object methods.
New commands:
##Use_Hints - use the new LFW hints for form type, size, and class. The LFW program generator can now adjust for special field requirements, such as a default size for a combobox, every time a field is used throughout an application without script involvement. The information is kept in the comment_short line of the DD, and can be manually locked to prevent updates.
##TD_Multi_Line_Adj - sets tab dialogs to multi-line page tabs and adjust the usable area. Each tab dialog can be set individually.
##Status_Text - adds a text field with the status of the main file's record buffer. Each page of a Tab View can have its own status text. There is a family of commands to modify the created text object.
##Status_Button - adds a button with the status of the main file's record buffer. Pressing the button will popup the selection list for the main file. There is a family of commands to support the created button.
##Long_Label_Prefix - added to support creation of descriptive long labels in the DD.
##Short_Label - used to update the DD short label only.
The following allow the mass change of label styles, First character, Title Style, UPPERCASE, or lowercase. The command can be placed in the INI file to process all views consistently, or can modify a single object. The modification is late in the code generation, so positioning does not change.
##Mod_Field_Label_Style - modify the style of entry field labels.
##Mod_Container_Label_Style - modify container labels.
##Mod_Button_Label_Style - modify button labels.
##Label_Replace - replace text in the label only. Used to fix problems caused by the ##Mod_ commands, like a proper name in a lowercase style.
What's new 11 November 1998 VERSION 1d LFW5 LFW VDF5
Fixed a problem with the ##Add_DD command that caused the DD object to not be created. The problem showed up mainly on converted programs with lookup files or other files not directly in the main file's structure, and only after the first file to be added.
What's new 10 November 1998 VERSION 1d LFW5 LFW VDF5
The validation functions have an additional argument. The global integer variable Operation_Mode is now sent as an argument, iOperation_Mode. This allows the validation functions to be used for Save/Delete/Clear validation which require similar functions but different value access methods, direct file buffer. The locked validations can set their own Operation_Mode to adjust their processing. The HELP system has been modified to make cut/paste more efficient. Each help topic now has the command as part of the args: line. The text can now be highlighted and saved into the clipboard.
This version requires regeneration of the DDs and the programs to add the new validation function arguments. You may get redefinition errors if DDs and scripts are only partially regenerated.
What's new 6 November 1998 VERSION 1d LFW5 LFW VDF5
I know the mods are coming fast, but I'm posting them to the site so they are available. Most of the mods are enhancements to existing commands to take care of specific opportunities. The ##Get_Value and ##Set_Value commands have been enhanced to allow forward and backwards references automatically if the "##Update_DD Inline" setting is used. The commands can now access fields that do not have an entry object. LFW Processing Zip download for the new files. This file should be unZipped into the App2Win\LFW50 directory. The help file has also been updated for the modified commands. Due to space and demand, the VDF4 pages have been removed. If you require VDF4 support, please e-mail your requests to lfw@app-2-win.com
What's new 4 November 1998 VERSION 1d LFW5 LFW VDF5
Modified the ##Look_Update command to override the prompt set in the DD as its default mode. This command puts a prompt for any file on any dbForm entry field. The main install has not been updated with this change. It is available as part of the LFW Processing Zip download. This file should be unZipped into the App2Win\LFW50 directory.
What's new 3 November 1998 VERSION 1d LFW5 LFW VDF5
Added an option to the ##Conditional_Entry commands for Button_Shadow_State on tab pages. If this option is used, the Button_Shadow_State will be set if the conditions are not met. If this option is not specified, the Enable_State will be set False. The Conditional Entry commands now work better on all of the container types. There were a few help keywords not connected to topics that have been fixed.
What's new 1 November 1998 VERSION 1d LFW5 LFW VDF5
Added the ##Grid_ASCII_Form_Mask command. This command corrects a problem with entry into ASCII grid fields. Without a mask, the grid form does not stop entry when the number of characters in the database field is reached. This command will automatically create the required form mask. If a mask is supplied by the developer, this command is NOP. The auto generation can also be stopped by field with a NO argument.
What's new 31 October1998 VERSION 1d LFW5 LFW VDF5
The LFW system now uses the DF AutoFind entry option exclusively in an attempt to be compatible with upcoming DF releases (DIAS). The exit routine is also set for AutoFind fields to protect against early mouse exit. The other entry options can be either DF options or LFW functions. The buttons for the MainLFW and other processing programs have been set to NOT take the focus or become defaults. This is a fix back to the operation of prior versions. The templates have been modified to use more of the LFW50.INI settings. This is to encourage consistent applications. A few of the help topics and pointers have been modified. If you need a copy of the LFWDoc help generated under a different name (notepad.hlp for example) to tie into your editor, just e-mail your request .
What's new 20 October1998 VERSION 1d LFW5 LFW VDF5
New complete install files and modified MainLFW that will launch the new help using F1 or menu pull-down. The new install contains the new help and has grown to require six floppy disks.
What's new 19 October1998 VERSION 1c LFW5 LFW VDF5
Initial version of the LFW docs/help in WinHelp format is available. The LFW install program has not been modified to update or add the required Windows registry entries so the LFWDoc.hlp file must be launched from Windows Explorer or a shortcut. A new install program and revised LFW main program will be available shortly. The button for downloading the new help is located on the LFW5 download page. The file name is LFWDocW.zip and contains LFWDoc.hlp and LFWDoc.cnt files. These files should be unzipped into the App2Win\LFW50 directory.
The LFW help docs have a feature not found in most... EVERY instance of a LFW ## command is linked back to the command's topic, including sample script listings. The links are "hidden" but the mouse cursor will change to a pointing hand when over a link.
Let me know what you think - Larry.
What's new 15 October1998 VERSION 1c LFW5 LFW VDF5
WinHelp is coming!! ... still. Adding some additional script/screen examples before initial release.
Fix: Strip comments off procedural code NAME command in the screen conversion program.
What's new 25 September1998 VERSION 1c LFW5 LFW VDF5
WinHelp is coming!! The docs for LFW are being converted to Windows help style and early tests are very encouraging. The new help will be on the site ASAP.
Fix: FindReq function was not being generated with the correct arguments.
What's new 12 September1998 VERSION 1c LFW5 LFW VDF5
Fixed a problem with system file DDs. The system was trying to create selection lists for all files. It now checks to see if any field in the file is indexed before creating the DD selection list blocks. Also fixed the generated output of iexit and ientry DEO override commands. The prior versions were outputting the VDF4 style code for the DEO override version only. The output to update the DD has been correct in all VDF5 versions.
What's new 8 September1998 VERSION 1c LFW5 LFW VDF5
Much tweaking, especially on the automatic generation and conversion routines. Processing options are retained for each automatic script even if auto-generation is allowed. There is now selection list access for automatically creating DDs, SLs, and VWs. Another selection list allows mass registry of external components in the VDF5 IDE. DDs can be updated with either DF style options or LFW validation functions. FindReq has an auto prompt option while AutoFind_GE has a prompt option and a match option. The conversion program has a button to update the master UPDD script for the main file. There is also the option to allow LFW to set the entry options for the view. The LFW automatic processing will create a conservative entry program, even protecting diamond file relationships. Any LFW automatic can be removed or changed by the user after the initial conversion. Three levels of log warnings: Error, Warning, and Message that can be set via the registry to trigger automatic log display. The script, output, DD, and conversion lookups now have a main data file column to aid selection. Each of the templates used by the LFW system now named in the registry. The LFW system defaults to the classes named in the workspace key. The LFW system can now create either program key or workspace key registry entries. The Lotus ScreenCam help menu has been cleaned up and new ScrCams are in production.
What's new 11 August1998 VERSION 1c LFW5 LFW VDF5
Check this area and others for frequent update information. An "Early Bird" version is available in the "download individual files" page. All of the current registration codes will work with the new version. Separate workspaces should be set up if using both the older and the new version because of changes to some of the support files. As with all major upgrades, BACKUP your work before installing, or install on a non-production computer.
What's new 4/23/1998 VERSION 1b
New equation routines supporting nested parentheses have been added the positioning commands. The generated code, except for Grid/List, is AppBuilder compatible once again. A problem with a prior version's AB-Start/End comments. DisplayOnly can now be used on Grid/Lists as an entry option, generating the (file.field) format of Entry_Item. The StickyTab_?_Right commands are now less positioning sensitive in scripts. There is no longer a requirement to have a location position set before the StickyTab_Right. The default data dictionary processing file range is now 1-250.
What's new 4/15/1998 VERSION 1b
Good news for those converting from procedural to VDF. LFW does not now require the DF Codetype and Codemast files to be in the filelist. LFW does not now require the LFW LookFeel and Datadict files to be in the filelist. The LFW converted application can now run using the same filelist as the older DOS versions. This is a major change in the program and is the reason for the version bump.
The StickyTab Set commands do not modify the existing position. The Set variant of the command is normally used on the following field, and should not have its position or size modified. The command is now modified just to set the value and not set the field value.
The built-in positioning replacements ($$RIGHT$$) and simple equations can now be used in StickyTab and StickyTab_Right commands. Example: ##StickyTab_B ($$RIGHT$$-30)
There are now 9 StickyTab and StickyTab_Right commands (1-9 or A-I). The screen conversion program attempts to use all 9 to make positioning easier when editing the resulting .LEF files.
The ##Complete_DD_Structure command now works correctly. There were some commands generated that were not supported by VDF. The ordering of the generated DD structure was also modified to reduce the chance of compile errors. The complete structure is up and down, all parent and child files.
##Style_Date LFW command has been added. The argument is a date (it can be Julian). This is the creation date for the script, and is used by the processing programs to control processing so new LFW processing styles do not "break" older scripts. This command only affects the commands that have had their old processing routines modified, not new commands.
What's new 3/20/1998
New GridList.doc in all of the document zip files. Explains LFW processing of grids and list with examples.
Sticky.doc has been replaced by Position.doc in the document zip files. Expanded to give a brief description of most of the LFW positioning commands. Expanded documentation of the new ##Center_V and ##Center_H commands. The GridList.doc above also has an example of centering command usage.
What's new 3/18/1998
Multi-disk install is now distributed in separate zip files. Some have been complaining of poor downloads. This will allow downloads in 1.4 meg segments. If you have a problem downloading, please leave an email at lfw@app-2-win.com explaining the problems
dbGrid and dbList support is now testing. It is REALLY neat. Docs and samples coming.
Centering commands, vertical and horizontal, have been added for grid and list support. Can be used to center any object, container or entry, in its parent container. The commands are ##Center_V and ##Center_H. A nudge argument can be added for fine tuning the computed position.
What's new 3/13/1998
There are now ##StickyTab_Right commands for aligning containers and entry objects on the right side. The supports the "correct" Windows look of object alignment. There are seven ##StickyTab_Right (A-G) commands available. The ##StickyTab_Right Set command can be used to set to column position to the prior entry field's position to allow alignment on an auto-positioned field.
Initial phases of List, dbList, Grid and dbGrid support has been added. The eight command added are /List, /List_End, /dbList, /dbList_End, /Grid, /Grid_End, /dbGrid, and /dbGrid_End. A class command was also added for each type. The default classes are the standard VDF classes. The current support will create and size the container object. Paste code generated by AppBuilder for the list or grid object, replace the object statement with ##Bypass and the end_object statement with ##Bypass_End.
What's new 3/5/1998
New files will be uploaded to the site late 3/5/1998 incorporating many of the changes suggested at the DISD convention in Carson City, Nevada USA. Included are changes for better support of soft relationships (at the DEO level) and right align tabs. The convert program will correctly parse the __-__-___ screen image field (old version processed incorrectly as one field). The selection list generation program will correctly handle files with no indexes (usually accessed by recnum only). Documentation included with the install files will be in rich text format (RTF), readable by many programs. This site will have the same documentation available in Adobe Acrobat 3 (PDF) and in Word 97 (DOC) format.
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