Tips/Tricks for DataFlex

Question

Is anyone out there still using DataFlex? If so, what are you favorite tips and tricks for this venerable 4GL?

Answer 1

It all depends on the version of DF you're using, but here's a couple:

1. Do not use "While" when traversing record sets. Always use repeat. (see example at bottom)
2. The dataflex newsgroups (news.dataaccess.com) is the best place to ask questions.
3. Other useful sites include http://sture.dk/wasp and http://www.vdf-guidance.com
4. Use entering_scope instead of activating to initialise values on forms.
5. With deferred modal objects, use a container object above the deferred object to pass in parameters.

I've got loads more. But I'm just going to have to go and lie down. I can't believe someone asked a dataflex question.

clear orders
move const.complete to orders.status
find ge orders by index.2
repeat
    if orders.status ne const.complete indicate finderr true
    if (not(finderr)) begin
        send doYourStuffHere
        find gt orders by index.2
    end
until (finderr)