Glossary
A key that activates a menu, menu item, or control when used with the ALT key. In Windows, this key corresponds to the underlined letter on a menu, command, or dialog box option.
Permission to view and work with certain records, fields, layouts, value lists, and scripts and to perform selected activities in a file.
A username and (usually) password that accesses a file with a defined level of privileges. There are two predefined accounts: Admin and Guest. Admin is a Full Access account that can be renamed or deleted. At least one Full Access account that is authenticated via FileMaker must be defined for each database file. Guest account is a special account that cannot be renamed or deleted, but can be made active or inactive.
A Windows programming and scripting protocol that allows external control of specific commands and actions in FileMaker Pro, including opening and closing FileMaker Pro databases, toggling the application's visibility, and performing FileMaker Pro scripts.
A set of software application building blocks, such as data structures, variables, procedures, and functions, used by programmers.
A scripting language you can use to control functions of the Mac OS and of applications that support AppleScript (often called scriptable applications).
A Mac OS technology that lets applications communicate with one another. FileMaker Pro can send and receive Apple events to and from applications that support them.
Alphabetical sequence (A to Z) for words, lowest to highest order for numbers, and earliest to latest for dates and times.
American Standard Code for Information Interchange. A standard character set used by computer systems worldwide (often extended for different alphabets).
The process of checking the validity of an account and password (if one is defined) before assigning privileges and allowing access to a system or a database file. An account authenticated via FileMaker Pro or FileMaker Server is referred to as a FileMaker Account. (FileMaker Server can also authenticate an account via External Server — an external authentication system such as Apple Open Directory, or a Windows Domain.)
Allowing a file to access a protected file’s schema (including its tables, layouts, scripts, and value lists). Such a file is an authorized file.
In a FileMaker Pro Advanced runtime solution, files that are bundled with a primary file.
An icon indicating that conditional formatting, script triggers, or tooltips have been applied to a field, object, or layout; that find is available for a field; or that an object is a button.
For container fields that store an external reference, the directory in which the referenced data is stored. You can also specify a file system path or a calculation for each remote container field.
In FileMaker Pro Advanced, a case-sensitive key between 1 and 24 characters long that links the components of a runtime solution.
In the status toolbar, the navigation control for moving from one record to another in Browse mode, from one layout to another in Layout mode, from one request to another in Find mode, and from one page to another in Preview mode.
If you don't see the status toolbar, click the status toolbar control button 
at the bottom of the document window.
at the bottom of the document window.A Boolean value is either True or False. A field containing any number except zero evaluates as True. A field containing zero, no data, or content that does not resolve into a number evaluates as False. For example, a field containing “ABC,” “ABC0,” or an empty field is False. A field containing “1” or “ABC2” is True.
In a subsummary part, records are grouped (sorted) by values in another field, called the break field. Whenever the value of the break field changes, the report "breaks" and FileMaker Pro inserts the subsummary part.
The FileMaker mode in which you enter and edit information in fields. Groups of fields make up the records of your database. You can view one record at a time (click Form View in the layout bar), view your records in a list (click List View), or view records arranged in a spreadsheet-like table (click Table View).
(Use Browse mode to enter and edit your information; use Layout mode to design how your information is displayed. Use Find mode to find records that match search criteria; use Preview mode to display how your records will print.)
The amount of memory assigned to FileMaker Pro. A larger cache size increases performance. A smaller cache size saves data to the hard disk more frequently, offering greater protection in case of a system crash.
A field that returns the result of a calculation of values. You can create a formula for the calculation using functions, constants, operators, and information from other fields in the same record.
A system of codes or tags that define how a web browser displays information in a web page. Cascading style sheets provide more control over the layout and appearance of web pages than HTML. Cascading style sheets work like templates for web pages. If a web page contains cascading style sheets, users must view it in a browser that supports cascading style sheets.
The specification for communication between an HTTP server and server gateway programs, which is supported by most servers.
The character set or code page of a file. If necessary, you can specify a character set to be used when importing, exporting, indexing, sorting, and spell-checking files. FileMaker supports ASCII, Windows ANSI, Macintosh, Japanese (Shift-JIS), Unicode UTF-8, Unicode UTF-16, and Unicode UTF-16 Windows.
A user that opens a database file that is shared on a network, published in a browser, or shared via ODBC/JDBC. FileMaker Network settings and privileges determine how FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Go clients interact with databases hosted through FileMaker Pro, FileMaker Server, and FileMaker Server Advanced.
The application that requests data (using SQL) from a data source (using ODBC or JDBC). Also, FileMaker Pro is a client application when it accesses a database hosted by FileMaker Server.
The relationship between two networked computers that share resources. The client requests services from the server, and the server provides services to the client.
A temporary storage area in computer memory where FileMaker Pro places the most recent selection you've cut or copied.
A copy of a FileMaker Pro file that contains all the field definitions, tables, layouts, scripts, and page setup options, but none of the data.
A type of drop-down list you can set up in Layout mode. In the Data tab of the Inspector, select Include arrow to show and hide list. The list will only drop when users click the arrow, not when they enter the field.
To save changes to a database file. Certain actions such as navigating between records, finding, and sorting do not change the file’s modification date. Other actions, such as changing data in a record or changing a layout do change the file’s modification date.
A consistency check examines a file that may have been damaged due to, for example, an unexpected quit. FileMaker Pro reads every file block and verifies that the internal structure of the block is valid and the block is properly linked to other blocks in the file. (A consistency check does not read all the data within each file block or check the schema or higher-level structures in the file; these tasks are performed by file recovery.)
In a formula, an unchanging value. For example, a constant can be a field name, a text literal ("Total:"), or a number. The value of the constant doesn't change from record to record as the formula is evaluated. Text constants in formulas can be up to 253 characters long.
Pictures, movies, sounds, and documents, such as Microsoft Word files and PDF files can be inserted in a container field. Data in container fields can be embedded in the field, stored by file reference, or stored externally.
The starting point or perspective from which calculations and scripts are begun, and from which a relationship is evaluated in the relationships graph.
Opening a data file from another application, which creates a new FileMaker Pro file containing the data.
A function that is not one of the default FileMaker Pro functions. In FileMaker Pro Advanced, you can create custom functions that can be reused anywhere in the database.
A menu that is not one of the default FileMaker Pro menus. In FileMaker Pro Advanced, you can create custom menus, menu items, and menu sets.
One of the three predefined privilege sets that appear in every file. The Data Entry Only privilege set allows read/write access to the records in a file, but not design access (for example, the ability to create layouts and value lists).
In a chart, the value of data plotted on the x or y axis displayed as a column, bar, point, bubble, or slice.
Data points that are plotted in a chart. When multiple data series are charted, each data series is displayed in a unique color and is defined in the chart’s legend, if included.
A named reference that provides access to another FileMaker database file or to an ODBC database. ODBC data sources are also referred to as external SQL sources (ESS).
In charting, the origin of the data to be charted (current found set, current record (delimited data), or related records).
A data structure that contains the information about a specific database that an ODBC driver needs in order to connect to it.
A FileMaker Pro Advanced feature that lets you monitor expressions such as field values, local and global variables, and calculations. You can monitor expressions while running scripts or while testing them in the Script Debugger. You can also monitor field values and variables in the database file.
A FileMaker Pro Advanced tool that creates a report of your database schema.
A collection of information in a file containing one or more tables pertaining to a subject, such as customers or invoices. (A large database can also comprise many database files.)
Reverse alphabetical sequence (Z to A) for words, highest to lowest order for numbers, and latest to earliest dates and times.
A FileMaker Pro Advanced feature that lets you bind files into a runtime solution, display files in Kiosk mode, prevent users from modifying the design or structure of databases, and automatically rename sets of files and update links to related files.
A document window in a modal state. Its behavior is similar to the behavior of a window when a running script is paused. You can create and customize a dialog window using the New Window script step.
A standard modeless FileMaker window. You can create and customize a document window using the New Window script step.
The primary subdivision of internet addresses, which is indicated by the last part of an internet address after the final period (or dot). In the United States, the standard domains are .com, .edu, .gov, .mil, .org, and .net. In other countries, the top-level domain is usually the country domain.
A server that matches up the URL of a website (for example http://www.filemaker.com) with its proper numeric IP address (for example 12.34.56.78).
The ODBC or JDBC driver translates SQL queries into commands that a DBMS can understand. It processes ODBC/JDBC calls, submits SQL requests to the data source, and returns the data back to the driver manager, which then routes it to the requesting application (for example, FileMaker Pro).
The control panel that manages communication between requesting applications and data sources. When an application makes a request via ODBC/JDBC, the driver manager routes the request through the correct driver to the correct data source and returns the data to the requesting application. All ODBC/JDBC drivers and data sources to be used on that computer are registered with the driver manager.
A field set up to display an interactive monthly calendar when a user enters the field in Browse or Find mode.
A formal description of a particular type of XML. It defines a document structure, including the names of data elements and where they may occur within the structure. Valid XML conforms to the rules established in its DTD.
In Layout mode, guidelines that extend horizontally and vertically to help you move, resize, or align objects. Dynamic guides also “snap-to” the upper and lower boundaries and the centers of objects as you move, resize, or align them.
Electronic mail. A system for transmitting messages from one computer or terminal to another. A message sent from one computer user to another is stored in the recipient’s account mailbox until that person logs onto the system and reads the message.
For container fields, a file that is stored in the container field. Container data can also be stored by reference or stored externally.
A type of fast local area network used for connecting computers and peripherals within the same building or campus.
A value or any computation that produces a value. Expressions can contain functions, field values, and constants and can be combined to produce other expressions.
Data sharing permissions that determine if a privilege set allows users to open a shared file using FileMaker Pro or FileMaker Server (fmapp), view a database as an ODBC or JDBC data source (fmxdbc), view a database using a web browser via Instant Web Publishing (fmiwp), XML web publishing (fmxml), or PHP web publishing (fmphp), or access a file in FileMaker Go without having to re-login (fmreauthenticate10). Plug-ins from third-party developers may provide additional extended privileges.
A function written in C or C++ as part of a third-party plug-in that extends the feature set of FileMaker Pro or FileMaker Pro Advanced.
A script used by a database file, but defined in a different database file. Use the Perform Script script step to select a defined script from a related file, or to select a file reference to a database file on your hard drive or network.
The basic unit of data in a record. You define a field to hold a specific, discrete category of data, such as Last Name, Employee Photo, or to display the result of a calculation. You can define text, number, date, time, timestamp, container, calculation, and summary fields. Field can also refer to the object on a layout that displays the data, such as an edit box, checkbox set, or pop-up menu.
In Layout mode, an outline that shows the size of a field. To see field boundaries, choose View menu > Show > Field Boundaries. These boundaries only appear in Layout mode. However, you can use the Appearance tab of the Inspector to format objects to have borders that do appear in Browse mode and when you print the layout.
Text on a layout that identifies a field. When you place a field on a layout, you can have FileMaker Pro add a field label that matches the field name. You can change or delete this field label if you want.
The name you assign to a field when you define the field. When you place a field onto a layout, you can have FileMaker Pro also place an editable field label that matches the field name. Fully qualified fields are displayed in tablename::fieldname format.
The part of a field definition that determines what kind of data you can enter in the field and the kinds of operations FileMaker Pro can perform with the data. FileMaker Pro can create text, number, date, time, timestamp, container, calculation, and summary fields. (Global fields contain the same value for all records in the database and can be of any type except summary.)
A communications method built into FileMaker Pro that allows you to share files hosted by FileMaker Pro or FileMaker Server with others over a network or in FileMaker Go. The FileMaker Network settings and privileges you set up determine how other users (called "clients") can open and use the shared file.
(Use Browse mode to enter and edit your information; use Layout mode to design how your information is displayed. Use Find mode to find records that match search criteria; use Preview mode to display how your records will print.)
In Find mode, a blank form based on the current layout. Enter search criteria into one or more fields of the find request.
A security system used to prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to a LAN. A firewall usually has a single computer that is connected to the internet and all internet traffic must pass through that computer.
A standard modeless FileMaker window that stays on top of other windows while users work in FileMaker Pro. You can create and customize a floating window using the New Window script step.
Use the footer part for page numbers or dates. This part appears at the bottom of every screen or page (unless you add a Title Footer). You can have only one footer in a layout. A field in the footer displays data from the last record on that page.
Displays one record at a time. Fields appear on separate lines, with the field label on the left and the field data on the right. To select this view, click Form View in the layout bar.
If you don't see the status toolbar, click the status toolbar control button at the bottom of the document window.
at the bottom of the document window. In Layout and Browse mode, the area that displays options for formatting text and objects. To show or hide the formatting bar, click Formatting 
in the layout bar.
in the layout bar.
 |
 |
If you don't see the status toolbar, click the status toolbar control button at the bottom of the document window.
at the bottom of the document window. A set of instructions that FileMaker Pro follows to calculate a value used in a field or as the criteria for matching database records.
The set of records in a table that are made active when you search for data. When you find all records, the found set is the entire table.
One of the three predefined privilege sets that appear in every file. The Full Access privilege set allows complete read/write access to a file, including making changes to privileges for the file.
The complete name of a field or layout, expressed using the format tableName::[field or layout name], where “tableName” is the name of the underlying table occurrence in the relationships graph upon which the field or layout is based. A fully qualified name identifies an exact instance of a field or layout. Because fields and layouts with common names can be based on different tables, FileMaker Pro uses fully qualified names to avoid errors in calculations and scripts.
A predefined, named formula that performs a specific calculation and returns a single, specific value.
The punctuation character (a semicolon) that separates parameters in a function definition. If you type a comma, FileMaker Pro automatically changes it to a semicolon after you close the Specify Calculation dialog box.
A field defined with the global storage option can contain one value that's used for all records in a file. Use the value of a global field as a fixed value in calculations, to declare variables in If or Loop script steps, or for fields that rarely need to be updated (for example, a company logo in a container field). A global field can be any field type except summary. A global field can’t be indexed.
A global variable can be used in a calculation or script anywhere in a file, for example, other scripts or file paths. The value of a global variable is not cleared until the file is closed.
A precise description of a formal language, such as XML, consisting of sets of rules for how strings (words) in the language can be generated, and how the strings can be recognized as part of the language.
Use grand summary parts to view and display summary information (totals, averages, and so on) in summary fields for all records in the found set. You can add one grand summary part at the top (leading) and one grand summary part at the bottom (trailing) of a layout.
In Layout mode, a series of nonprinting intersecting horizontal and vertical lines. The grid aligns objects you create, resize, move, or position. Objects “snap to” the grid to help you create and edit objects more precisely. Gridlines adjust when you change the unit of measure.
A user who opens a protected file without specifying an account name and password. The Guest account is assigned a privilege set that determines what guests can do in the file. Guest access may be disabled for a file.
Nonprinting, movable horizontal and vertical guidelines to help you position and align objects in Layout mode. An object's left or right boundary, top or bottom boundary, or center "snaps to" a guide.
Use a header part for column headings, titles, and other information that appears only at the top of every page on a layout. FileMaker Pro displays the header in Browse mode and prints it on every page, except the first page if you add a title header. Fields added to a header are printed on every page, using data from the first record on that page.
The starting page for a website. It often has some form of a table of contents that allows viewers to link to other parts of the website.
After a file has been opened and enabled for sharing, the host is either the first FileMaker Pro user to share the file, or the host is FileMaker Server. Once the host opens the file, other users (clients) can access and change the file. All changes are stored in the file on the computer or device where the file resides. FileMaker Network settings and privileges determine how FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Go clients interact with databases hosted through FileMaker Pro or FileMaker Server.
To bring (copy) data from a table, another file, or another application into the current table. You can also import scripts from one FileMaker Pro file into another.
An option that can be enabled when defining (or changing) the definition of a field. When indexing is enabled, FileMaker Pro builds a list of all the values that occur in the field in the table. This improves the performance of tasks such as finding data, but it increases the size of the database file on disk.
In Layout mode, a tool that allows you to view and edit the settings for objects. You can open multiple inspectors to view and format settings in different tabs at the same time. To open the Inspector, choose View menu > Inspector. To open another Inspector window, choose View menu > New Inspector.
A method of sharing your FileMaker databases with other users via a web browser. Web clients are limited to the layouts that you provide and to the privilege sets assigned to their user accounts.
To publish your database on the web, you must have an internet connection (usually provided through an internet service provider) and an IP address.
A container field for which the Interactive content option in the Inspector is selected. Interactive containers are rendered using the web browser technologies that web viewer uses.
For IPv4, a four-part number, usually formatted as 12.34.56.78, that uniquely identifies a computer on the internet; for IPv6, an eight-part number, usually formatted as [2001:0DB8:85A3:08D3:1319:8A2E:0370:7334], that uniquely identifies a computer on the internet. When referenced in an application, IPv6 addresses must be contained in square brackets, for example, [2001:0DB8:85A3:08D3:1319:8A2E:0370:7334].
A Java API that uses SQL statements to access data from, and exchange data with, many database management systems. The JDBC driver communicates between your Java applet and the FileMaker Pro or FileMaker Server Advanced data source.
A FileMaker database that runs full screen, without toolbars or menus. Users click buttons to navigate. In FileMaker Pro Advanced, use the Developer Utilities to create Kiosk solutions. You can bind Kiosk solutions into stand-alone runtime solutions.
A predefined layout with fields arranged for printing on mailing label stock, and media and index sheets.
An arrangement of fields, objects, pictures, and layout parts that represents the way information is organized and presented when you browse, preview, or print records. You can design different layouts for entering data, printing reports and mailing labels, displaying web pages, and so on.
In the status toolbar, the area that displays options for working with layouts, such as the Layout pop-up menu.
 |
 |
If you don't see the status toolbar, click the status toolbar control button at the bottom of the document window.
at the bottom of the document window. The FileMaker mode in which you determine how information in fields is presented on the screen and in printed reports.
(Use Browse mode to enter and edit your information; use Layout mode to design how your information is displayed. Use Find mode to find records that match search criteria; use Preview mode to display how your records will print.)
A section of a layout that organizes or summarizes information. Layout parts include Body, Header, Footer, Title Header, Title Footer, leading and trailing Grand Summary, and leading and trailing Subsummary.
In the layout bar, a pop-up menu from which you can choose Manage Layouts (Layout mode) or a defined layout (all modes).
If you don't see the status toolbar, click the status toolbar control button at the bottom of the document window.
at the bottom of the document window. A collection of coordinated styles that determine the color, object and part attributes, and fonts used on a layout. You choose a theme when you create a new layout in the New Layout/Report assistant. You can change a theme in Layout mode.
In the status toolbar in Layout mode, a collection of tools that includes the Selection tool (pointer), Text tool, Line tool, Rectangle tool, Rounded Rectangle tool, Oval tool, Field/Control tool, Button tool, Tab Control tool, Portal tool, Chart tool, Web Viewer tool, Field tool, Part tool, and Format Painter tool.
If you don't see the status toolbar, click the status toolbar control button at the bottom of the document window.
at the bottom of the document window. FileMaker Pro includes eight predefined layout types: Standard form, Table view, List view, Report, Blank layout, Labels, Vertical labels, and Envelope. You can use the predefined layout types as they are, or change them to suit your needs.
To use a predefined layout type, in Layout mode, click New Layout/Report in the status toolbar. The assistant guides you through creating the type of layout or report you want. After you finish with the assistant, use the tools and commands in Layout mode to tailor the layout for your needs.
On a web page, text or a graphic which — when you click it — displays an associated web page or a specific element within a page.
Displays records one record at a time in a list format. To select this view, click List View in the layout bar.
If you don't see the status toolbar, click the status toolbar control button at the bottom of the document window.
at the bottom of the document window. A predefined layout type for setting up simple reports (columnar or extended columnar). The fields that you specify appear in columns across the screen or page in one line. Field names are in the header part and the footer part is blank.
An object on a layout that cannot be edited or deleted. To lock or unlock an object, select it in Layout mode. In the Inspector, click Position, then choose Lock or Unlock in the Arrange & Align area. If an object is locked, its selection handles dim.
A lookup matches records and copies data from a related table into a field in the current table. After data is copied, it becomes part of the current table (as well as existing in the table it was copied from). Data copied to a table doesn't automatically change when the values in the related table change.
A correspondence between data in database tables in which more than one record in the first table is related to more than one record in another table, and more than one record in that table is related to more than one record in the first table.
For relational databases and lookups, a field in a source table and a field in a related table that contain values you want to use to find matching records. (A match field is sometimes called a key field or trigger field.) In the relationships graph, match fields appear in italics.
For importing records, values in the match fields determine which records in the source table update which records in the target table.
The area at the top of the screen (Mac OS) or window (Windows) that displays the installed menu set.
One item listed in a menu on the menu bar. A menu item corresponds with one command, submenu, or separator.
A placeholder on a layout for the contents of a database field. A merge field expands or contracts in Browse and Preview modes, or when printed, to fit the amount of data in the database field for each record.
Merge fields are useful for mail merge form letters; FileMaker Pro uses merge fields in predefined Labels and Envelope layouts.
A variable inserted onto a layout that displays values from a local or global variable onto the layout of the current record. You see the merge variable value in Browse, Find, and Preview modes, and when you print records.
A window that requires user action before users can continue working in FileMaker Pro. Use a modal window to display alert messages or to collect information from users.
In FileMaker Pro, the four different environments (Browse, Find, Layout, and Preview) that you use to work with your database file.
A pop-up menu at the bottom of the document window from which you can choose a mode (Browse, Find, Layout, or Preview). This menu is available in all modes.
A match field that contains more than one value, each on a separate line. A multi-key field can be used in one table involved in a relationship, to match several possible values in the match field of the other table.
A network protocol (for example, TCP/IP) is a set of rules that govern how computers exchange messages on a network.
A wizard that guides you through creating a layout or report according to options you choose. In Layout mode, click New Layout/Report in the status toolbar, or choose Layouts menu > New Layout/Report.
On a FileMaker Pro layout, an object is a discrete entity or shape that you can select, move, modify, delete, or name. Lines, fields, buttons, portals, imported graphics, blocks of text, tab controls, and web viewers are objects.
An API that uses SQL statements to access data from, and exchange data with, many database management systems. FileMaker Pro uses ODBC drivers to share data (as a data source) and to interact with data from other applications (as a client application).
A correspondence between database tables in which two tables are directly related to each other, with no other tables between them.
A correspondence between data in database tables in which one record in the first table is related to more than one record in another table.
A correspondence between data in database tables in which one record in the first table is related to one record in another table.
Components of a formula. For example, in the formula Quantity*Price, Quantity and Price are the operands.
In calculations, symbols that indicate how to combine two or more expressions. These include the standard arithmetic operators (+, -, /, *), logical operators that set up conditions that must be met to make a value True or False (AND, OR, XOR, and NOT), and find operators (<, =, @) that help you limit the records defined in a find request.
In the relationships graph, symbols that define the match criteria between one or more pairs of fields in two tables. These include: != (not equal), > (greater than), < (less than), = (equal), <= (less than or equal to), >= (greater than or equal to) and x (all rows, or cartesian product).
In Layout mode, the label that appears at the left or side of the bottom dividing line of each layout part. By dragging it up or down, you can use the part label to resize a part. You can also open the Part Definitions dialog box by double-clicking the label.
An open-source programming language primarily used in server-side application software to create dynamic web pages. FileMaker Server lets you publish data from FileMaker Pro databases on customized web pages created with PHP.
A pre-assigned number that indicates a "logical connection place" where a client (such as a web browser) can connect to a particular server application on a networked computer. Port numbers range from 0 to 65536. Port 80 is the default port for HTTP services such as FileMaker Pro web publishing, but you can use another port number if 80 is already in use by another server application.
For relational databases, a layout object in one table where you place one or more related fields to display in rows the data from one or more related records.
(Use Browse mode to enter and edit your information; use Layout mode to design how your information is displayed. Use Find mode to find records that match search criteria; use Preview mode to display how your records will print.)
In a FileMaker Pro Advanced runtime solution, the file that connects all of the auxiliary files and opens when you start the runtime application. From the Developer Utilities in FileMaker Pro Advanced, you can select a primary file for solutions that have more than one file.
A defined set of permissions that determines a level of access to a database file. You can define as many privilege sets as you like for a file. There are three predefined privilege sets: Full Access, Data Entry Only, and Read-Only Access.
Retrieving, manipulating, or modifying data from a data source by sending SQL statements. Also, requesting, and then receiving, data from a DBMS. You can also add, edit, format, sort, and perform calculations on your data using queries.
An application from Apple Inc. that compresses, stores, and plays files combining text, sound, animation, and video.
A type of QuickTime movie. QuickTime VR movies let you view panoramic images or objects from many angles.
One of the three predefined privilege sets that appear in every file. The Read-Only Access privilege set allows read access to the records in a file, but not write or design access.
One set of fields in a database table. Each record contains data about a single activity, individual, subject, or transaction.
If a file is damaged (for example, from an unexpected quit during a hard-drive update), you can attempt to recover the file. FileMaker Pro preserves as much data (the file’s schema and structure and its tables, records, layouts, scripts, and field definitions) as possible.
A method of setting up a file to automatically import read-only data from another file. With recurring import, imported data refreshes when you open the file, view the layout that contains the imported data for the first time during a FileMaker Pro session, or run a data update script.
For relational databases, a field in one table that is related to a field in another table (or to a different field within the same table). If a relationship is defined between two tables (even through another table), data in fields in one table can be accessed from the other table.
A record in the related table whose match field (according to the relationship used) contains a value that's equal to the value in the match field of another table.
For relational databases, the table that contains the data you want to access and work with in the current table. For lookups, the table that contains the data to copy.
A group of one or more database files that, when used together, contain all the data you need. Each occurrence of data is stored in only one table at a time, but can be accessed in any table, either in the same file or from a related file. Data from another table or file is displayed in the current table without being copied, and the data changes whenever the values in the other table or file change.
Relationships provide access to data from one table to another. Relationships can join one record in one table to one record in another table, one record to many other records, or all records in one table to all records in another table, depending on the criteria you specify when you create the relationship in the relationships graph.
In the Relationships tab of the Manage Database dialog box, you can see the occurrences of tables both in the current file and from any external, related database files. In this relationships graph, you join tables and change relationships between fields in different tables.
When you create a new table, a visual representation, or occurrence, of the table appears in the relationships graph. You can specify multiple occurrences (with unique names) of the same table in order to work with complex relationships in the graph.
A predefined layout type for setting up complex reports with grouped data (subsummary reports). The fields that you specify appear in columns across the screen or page in one line. Field names are in the header part and the footer part is blank.
A subsummary report that you create using the Report layout type. Reports with grouped data can include totals and subtotals.
A database that does not require FileMaker Pro or FileMaker Pro Advanced in order to be used. In FileMaker Pro Advanced, use the Developer Utilities to bind a primary file and any auxiliary files to produce a stand-alone runtime solution.
In database terminology, a schema is the organization of the tables, the fields in each table, and the relationships between fields and tables.
In Layout mode, nonprinting guides that help you design layouts for iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, or computers with different screen resolutions.
One or more instructions (script steps) that you define to automate repetitive or difficult tasks. You manage scripts using the Manage Scripts feature. You run a script by clicking its button, choosing its menu command, calling it from another script or a plug-in, or running it at startup or when a file closes.
A FileMaker Pro Advanced tool for debugging FileMaker Pro scripts.
In Find mode, the values and operators you specify to locate records. For example, if you type ABC Travel in the Vendor field, FileMaker Pro looks for and returns all records that have this name in the Vendor field.
The protection that’s placed on a file. Security includes various types of accounts to authenticate users, levels of privilege sets to determine what can be done with a file, and authorization of other files to create references to the current file (including its tables, layouts, scripts, and value lists). Security also includes extended privileges, which determine the data sharing options that are permitted by a privilege set.
A relationship between fields in the same table. This creates another occurrence of the table in the relationships graph.
A unique number entered by FileMaker Pro for each record. You can tell FileMaker Pro to automatically enter a serial number for each record by setting the Auto-Enter options in the Options for Field dialog box. You can also serialize records in Browse mode by choosing Records menu > Replace Field Contents.
A database file for which sharing has been enabled, which permits users to access the database file over a network. FileMaker Pro, FileMaker Pro Advanced, FileMaker Server, and FileMaker Server Advanced each support one or more of the following ways to share databases: FileMaker Network sharing, which permits multiple FileMaker Pro or FileMaker Go users to use a database file simultaneously; web publishing of databases to web browser users; and sharing of data with other applications via ODBC/JDBC.
Use to edit objects or data quickly by choosing commands from a shortcut, or context, menu. Commands vary depending on the mode you're using, the item the cursor is over, and whether an item is selected.
In the status toolbar, the navigation control for quickly moving to a record in your database file based on its location in the file. For example, in Browse mode, move the slider to the left to go to the first record and to the right to go to the last record.
In Browse mode, moving the slider changes the current record. In Find mode, moving the slider changes the current find request. In Layout mode, moving the slider changes the current layout. In Preview mode, moving the slider changes the current page.
A found set of records that is saved in the FileMaker Pro Snapshot Link (FMPSL) format, with the filename extension .fmpsl. A snapshot link captures and preserves the found set as it was when you performed the find request. You can also email an FMPSL file to another person.
The sequence for rearranging records. Records are sorted by the first field in the sort order list, then the second, and so on. Values within each field are sorted by the order specified (ascending, descending, or custom).
The file from which you bring data during importing or exporting, or the file from which you add a table to the relationships graph.
The table upon which one or more tables in the relationships graph are based. The source table is the table defined in the Tables tab of the Manage Database dialog box.
The order in which objects overlap on a layout. In Layout mode, you can change this order by cutting and pasting objects or by clicking Bring to front, Bring forward, Send to back, or Send backward in the Arrange & Align area of the Inspector.
The default layout, with all fields arranged on separate lines in the order they were defined. The body part is only as tall as it needs to be to include all the fields in the database. This layout includes header and footer parts.
A script that automatically runs when a file is opened. You can script such things as setting system formats to the user's formats or setting a database to be shared in a startup script.
The area across the top of the document window that displays navigation controls, customizable buttons, and a layout bar for working with layouts. In Layout mode, it includes layout tools.
 |
 |
If you don't see the status toolbar, click the status toolbar control button at the bottom of the document window.
at the bottom of the document window. In FileMaker Pro, the organization of file elements such as scripts, layouts, value lists, privileges, and so on. You interact with a file’s schema through its structure.
Use summary parts to view and display information from one or more records. You place a summary field in a summary part to display a summary of information for each group of records sorted on the break field. You can add one or more subsummaries above (leading) or below (trailing) the body.
Aggregate values for different categories of data within a field. For example, a subsummary value can be the total of employees for each department.
A FileMaker calculation field or summary field that you can append to ODBC tables in order to do calculations on the external data while working in FileMaker. The calculations are not stored and you are not changing the schema of the ODBC table.
Settings you control with control panels to determine how dates, times, currency, and numbers display and sort on your computer. (See the documentation that came with your computer for information on using these control panels.)
If the system formats are different on your computer from the ones on the computer where the database file was created, the first time you open the file, FileMaker Pro will ask you if you want to use the system’s settings or the file’s settings.
A layout object made up of one or more tab panels that allows you to organize fields and other objects within each tab panel's borders.
The order in which you move from field to field in a record. In Layout mode, you can define a custom tab order and include buttons, tab controls, and web viewers in the tab order.
A component of a tab control. The tab panel is the area displayed when a tab in a tab control is selected. You can place objects such as lines, fields, buttons, portals, imported graphics, blocks of text, tab controls, and web viewers in tab panels.
A collection of data pertaining to a subject, such as customers or stock prices. A database file contains one or more tables, which consist of fields and records. When you create a new table, a visual representation, or occurrence, of the table appears in the relationships graph. You can specify multiple occurrences (with unique names) of the same table in order to work with complex relationships in the graph.
Displays multiple records in a tabular format like a spreadsheet. Each record appears in a row, and each field appears in a column. To select this view, click Table View in the layout bar.
If you don't see the status toolbar, click the status toolbar control button at the bottom of the document window.
at the bottom of the document window.In Browse mode, you can use Table View to create, modify, and delete fields; choose field types; add, delete, and sort records; or create a chart or dynamic report.
Or Starter Solution. A predesigned and formatted FileMaker Pro file, or web page, that you can copy and change for your own use.
Also, a predefined website that you can select in the Web Viewer Setup dialog box to help you create a web viewer quickly.
In Layout mode, the guideline that appears at the base of the text in a field or text block. Text baselines can be solid, dotted, or dashed. If you want text baselines to also appear in Browse and Find modes, select Text baselines in the Appearance tab of the Inspector.
Any expression that returns a text result. For example, a text expression can be a constant ("London"), a field reference (Status), or a calculated value (Rightwords(Lastname, 1)).
A field type combining date and time that is compatible with the ODBC requirement for the SQL format [yyyy.mm.dd hh:mm:ss.sss].
A small box that displays text when a user moves the cursor over a layout object. Tooltips display in Browse, Find, and Layout modes.
A worldwide standard that, in one code page, provides a unique number for every character in human languages, no matter what the platform, software program, or operating system.
A calculation field with a result that is only calculated when the value is needed, for example, to browse or print. In most cases, FileMaker Pro makes a field stored when you define it, but you can change the storage type to unstored.
A web address, which consists of a protocol, a host name, and optionally a port, a directory, and a filename. For example, http://www.filemaker.com/ , ftp://12.34.56.78:80/myfiles/, or fmp://mywebsite.com/sample.fmp12.
To save time and ensure accuracy during data entry, define frequently used text, number, date, or time values as a value list. When you enter data, you can choose from the list of defined values.
You can format value lists to display in a drop-down list or pop-up menu, or as checkboxes or option (radio) buttons. The values in a value list can be user-defined or based on the values in a field in the same file or in a different file. You can also define relationships for use with value lists, to access and display particular related values. Another option is to use a value list from another file.
In a calculation, a symbol or name that represents a value. Use the Set Variable script step to specify the name, value, and repetition of the variable. Names prefixed by $ are local variables available only within the current script. Prefix the name with $$ to make the variable available throughout the current file (global). Local and global variables can have the same name but they are treated as different variables.
An arrangement of your data primarily useful for onscreen manipulation. In Browse mode, Find mode, or Preview mode, Form View displays individual records, List View displays records in a list, and Table View displays records in a spreadsheet-like table format.
In FileMaker Pro Instant Web Publishing, views are web pages for working with your database in a web browser.
The calculated expression that you enter in the Web Viewer Setup dialog box. A web address is not equivalent to a URL that a web user could enter in a web browser.
An application that you can use to view web pages/sites on the World Wide Web or an intranet. Browsers download the web pages onto the viewer's computer.
A computer that is connected to the internet or an intranet and has a web server application installed on it. Web server applications deliver web pages and associated files to web browsers.
Someone using a web browser to access a FileMaker Pro database published on the World Wide Web or an intranet.
A layout object that allows you to display information from websites based on data in your database.
An interlinked collection of web pages residing on web servers, and other documents, menus, and databases, which are available via URLs.
In a column, stacked column, line, and area chart, the data series you are comparing (for example, company name).
XSLT (XSL Transformations) is a subset of XSL (Extensible Stylesheet Language) that is used to transform, or change, the structure of an XML document into a different document format. For example, you can use an XSLT style sheet to transform an XML document into an HTML or TXT document.
Instead of being a rigid file format, XML is a language for defining agreed-upon formats that groups can use for exchanging data. Many organizations and businesses are using XML to transfer product information, transactions, inventory, and other business data.
FileMaker Pro can export XML data that can then be used, for example, by spreadsheet applications, data charting applications, and enterprise SQL databases. FileMaker Pro can also import XML data.
In a column, stacked column, line, and area chart, the data series you are measuring (for example, annual sales).