Using Controls

  • Article

Controls are the primary medium of user interaction. By typing and clicking and by moving through controls on the forms in your application, users can manipulate their data and accomplish the tasks they want to do.

In This Section

  • Controls and Data Concepts
    Explains the difference between the two kinds of controls you can have on your forms and lists the effects of a ControlSource property setting on different controls. Includes links to topics on control selection for certain tasks and option buttons.
  • Application of List Boxes and Drop-Down List Boxes
    Defines list boxes and drop-down list boxes and contains tables of common list properties and methods. Has links to topics on working with list boxes.
  • Refreshing a One-To-Many Display Based on a List Value
    Details how to use local tables and local or remote views to implement one-to-many relationships reflecting changed record pointers in parent tables. Provides links to topics on how to manipulate lists.
  • Accepting Input That Cannot Be Predetermined
    Offers explanations of how to use text boxes, edit boxes, and combo boxes to accept user input that cannot be predetermined. Contains links to topics on using the InputMask property and using the spinner to accept numeric input in a given range.
  • Allowing Specific Actions
    Describes how to use Command buttons and Command button groups to make it possible for users to take specific actions that are unrelated to manipulating values. Has a link to a topic on using the Timer control to perform actions or check values at specific intervals.
  • Displaying Information
    Provides descriptions of how to use images, labels, text boxes, edit boxes and shapes to show information to users.
  • Setting Control Properties
    Explains, through a series of tasks, how to specify the type of control created when dragging a field or table onto a form.
  • Manipulating Multiple Rows of Data
    Details how to display and manipulate multiple rows of data with the grid object and provides links to topics on working with the grid.
  • Making Controls Easier to Use
    Offers instructions on how to use access keys, tab order, ToolTip text, and selective disabling to create a more design that is easier to use.
  • Extending Forms
    Describes how to use page frames to extend the surface area of forms and contains a link to a topic on extending the functionality of forms with Microsoft® ActiveX® controls.
  • Creating the Interface
    Using Visual FoxPro forms, classes, controls, menus, and toolbars, you can build interfaces that help users gain access to the full potential of your programs.
  • Creating Forms
    Your application must have forms to make it possible for users to view and enter data. However, you can customize standard forms visually and programmatically to create a specialized environment for your users.
  • Working with Forms
    After creating your form, you can run, hide, or alter it in different ways.
  • Designing Menus and Toolbars
    A good menu system tells your users a lot about the design and structure of your application. Planning menus and toolbars carefully can improve the usability of your application and provide immediate access to common tasks.