Table 3–1: Widget Types
Widget
|
Use
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Fill-in field
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Displays and accepts any kind of data. When you display a variable or database field, the fill-in field is the default widget.
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Text
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Displays any kind of data as read-only text. The text widget is useful for creating lists, reports, or labels.
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Selection list
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Presents a list of value choices for a character variable or database field. A selection list can use scroll bars and allow multiple selections.
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Combo box
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Like a selection list, a combo box presents a list of value choices for a character variable or database field. The value list of a combo box is only visible after a user chooses the button next to the combo box. When the user selects a value, the combo box closes and displays only the selected value.
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Editor
|
Displays and accepts as input character variables or database fields that can contain long strings. Use editor widgets where you want users to enter notes, descriptions, and so on.
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Radio set
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Displays and accepts data that has a limited number of possible values. Use radio sets to display options where the user understands that only one option can be true at a time.
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Toggle box
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Displays and accepts data that has either a YES/NO or TRUE/FALSE value.
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Browser
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Displays and optionally updates key fields from a subset of database records. You define the subset of records and fields which the browse displays. The user interacts with a browse in the same way as a selection list.
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Slider
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Displays and manipulates integer data. When the user moves the pointer on the trackbar inside the slider, the value changes proportionally to the move.
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Rectangle
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Creates a box. You might use a rectangle to group a set of widgets.
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Image
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Adds a high-resolution graphic to an interface. An image is a special widget available on GUI systems.
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Button
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Explicitly executes tasks. Use a button to allow the user to execute triggers or control the interface.
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Frame
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Creates a container for organizing and displaying other widgets.
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Dialog box
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Creates a frame that overlays the current interface. The main interface is disabled until the user is done working with the dialog box. A dialog box notifies the user of important information or requests more information. A dialog box is a container for other widgets.
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Menu bar
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Creates a collection of pull-down menus in a window. A menu bar can be attached only to a window widget.
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Pull-down menu (submenu)
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Organizes a related collection of commands and options for an application. A submenu can be attached to a menu bar, another widget, or a menu item.
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Menu item
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Creates an individual option on a submenu.
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